West Point history traces Flirtation Walk, originally called “Chain Battery Walk,” back to the Revolutionary War. Located on the northeast lower riverbank of the U.S. Military Academy, the trails’ original purpose can be traced back to the Revolutionary War, allowing access to the Continental Army defenses.
Famously among the defenses is the Great Chain, intended to block British Ships. It is also home to several memorials in honor of former cadets of West Point that can be seen throughout the trail and is known for its rich history. Today, it is often used as a walking trail by cadets, employees and residents of West Point.
However, in recent years, the walkway has eroded, making it difficult to traverse. Doug Miller, from the West Point Directorate of Public Works, had heard through word of mouth from the community about the condition of the trail and decided to walk through Flirtation Walk himself. He found numerous areas of the trail that were either washed out, mud filled or pocked with holes. From there, Miller decided to move forward with a project to restore Flirtation Walk.
Upon approval, Miller along with members of the DPW Roads Team, to include Ken Thomas and Rich Figueroa, began the restoration project by improving the storm water drainage, resurfacing the trails, clearing the heavy brush and removing debris. When clearing the heavy, overgrown brush, they helped expose several Battery Points, along with clearing Battery Cove, where the Great Chain once connected on the river’s west bank. The repairs and improvements have noticeably enhanced the experience of a stroll on Flirtation Walk.
The Roads Department gave life back to the trail and helped to highlight its rich history. If you have not walked through Flirtation Walk, enjoy its beautiful views of the Hudson River and take in the rich history that surrounds this trail – the time is now to do so.