The trail, a scenic and recreational off-road loop, was created by the Open Space Institute in partnership with Mohonk Preserve, and with support from the Butler Conservation Fund. It meanders through farm fields and over gently rolling hills, connecting New Paltz directly to the Shawangunk Ridge and 90 miles of recreational carriage roads and trails at the Mohonk Preserve and the Minnewaska State Park Preserve; the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail; and the Empire State Trail.

The River-to-Ridge Trail is located less than two hours from New York City in the heart of the Hudson Valley. The trail begins on the edge of the Village of New Paltz just west of the Carmine Liberta on Route 299.