New York City, a concrete jungle teeming with life, surprisingly offers easy access to stunning natural escapes. Just a short train ride or drive away lie breathtaking hiking trails perfect for a day trip or weekend adventure. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, this guide to 19 beautiful hikes near NYC offers something for everyone. From challenging climbs with rewarding vistas to gentle strolls through serene forests, we've compiled a diverse selection to inspire your next outdoor excursion. Remember to always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before you embark on your hike.
Easy Hikes for Beginners & Families
These trails offer a gentle introduction to hiking, perfect for families with young children or those new to the activity. They typically feature relatively flat terrain and shorter distances.
1. Minnewaska State Park Preserve (Shawngunk Mountains)
Minnewaska boasts miles of well-maintained trails with stunning views of the Shawangunk Ridge. The Gertrude's Nose Trail offers panoramic overlooks, while the Lake Minnewaska loop is a relaxing walk around a picturesque lake. Expect stunning waterfalls and lush forests. Remember to bring your swimsuit for a post-hike dip in the lake!
2. Breakneck Ridge (Hudson Highlands)
While technically moderate, Breakneck Ridge can be done by beginners with good stamina. The initial incline is steep but the incredible Hudson River views from the summit are worth the effort. Important note: This trail is extremely popular, so go early to avoid crowds. Wear sturdy hiking shoes; the trail is rocky in places.
3. Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park (Poughkeepsie)
Not technically a hike, but a fantastic walk! This repurposed railroad bridge offers unparalleled views of the Hudson River. It's paved, wheelchair accessible, and perfect for a leisurely stroll with breathtaking scenery. It's a great option for those looking for minimal exertion and maximum views.
Moderate Hikes for Experienced Hikers
These trails offer a good challenge with moderate elevation gain and longer distances. They often lead to spectacular viewpoints and offer a more immersive nature experience.
4. Harriman State Park (Various Trails)
Harriman State Park offers a vast network of trails catering to all levels. The Lake Welch Beach Trail offers a moderate challenge with beautiful lake views, while the Seven Lakes Drive allows for exploration of multiple smaller trails. The park's size means you can easily find a trail that fits your skill level and time constraints.
5. Anthony Wayne Recreation Area (Harriman State Park)
Located within Harriman, the Anthony Wayne area boasts several moderate trails. The Black Rock Forest Trail is particularly popular, offering diverse landscapes and some challenging climbs. Be sure to pack plenty of water, as the trails can be exposed in sections.
6. Storm King Mountain (Cornwall)
Storm King Mountain offers a moderate to strenuous climb, depending on the trail you choose. The views from the summit, however, are spectacular, overlooking the Hudson River and surrounding mountains. This hike rewards perseverance with panoramic views that are truly unforgettable.
Challenging Hikes for Advanced Hikers
These trails are best suited for experienced hikers with excellent fitness levels. They involve significant elevation changes, longer distances, and potentially challenging terrain.
7. Overlook Mountain (Catskill Mountains)
Overlook Mountain offers stunning views from its summit, but the climb is steep and strenuous. This hike is not for the faint of heart, but the reward is well worth the effort. Several different trails access the summit, allowing you to choose a route that suits your experience level.
8. Slide Mountain (Catskill Mountains)
As the highest peak in the Catskill Mountains, Slide Mountain presents a significant challenge. The trail is long, steep, and can be difficult in wet conditions. Proper preparation and fitness are essential for tackling this hike.
9. Mount Beacon (Beacon)
Another challenging hike with rewarding views, Mount Beacon provides a significant climb with exposed sections. The summit offers panoramic vistas of the Hudson River and surrounding valleys. Ensure you have appropriate footwear and plenty of water.
Urban Hikes & Nature Walks
These options provide a blend of urban and natural environments, perfect for those seeking a shorter hike or a walk with a touch of city life.
10. Inwood Hill Park (Manhattan)
Located in upper Manhattan, Inwood Hill Park offers a surprisingly lush escape from the urban hustle. The trails wind through forests, offering glimpses of the Hudson River and a chance to reconnect with nature. It’s a great option for a quick escape from city life.
11. Central Park (Manhattan)
While not solely a hiking trail, Central Park offers numerous paths and trails for walking, jogging, and even a bit of light hiking. From the Ramble to the North Woods, there are countless routes for exploration within the park's diverse landscapes.
12. Prospect Park (Brooklyn)
Similar to Central Park, Prospect Park offers extensive walking trails and paths, providing a green respite within the urban fabric of Brooklyn. The park's rolling hills and varied landscapes offer a pleasant escape.
Hikes with Waterfalls
These hikes feature stunning waterfalls as a key attraction, combining the joy of hiking with the beauty of cascading water.
13. Kaaterskill Falls (Catskill Mountains)
Kaaterskill Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in New York, and the hike to reach it is moderate to strenuous. The reward is a breathtaking view of the falls cascading down the rock face. This hike requires preparation and a reasonable level of fitness.
14. Bash Bish Falls (Massachusetts - Close to NY Border)
While located just over the border in Massachusetts, Bash Bish Falls is easily accessible from New York and offers a beautiful waterfall hike. The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for a wider range of fitness levels.
Hikes with Unique Features
These hikes offer something beyond just the typical forest trails; they incorporate unique geological features or historical elements.
15. The Mohonk Preserve (Shawngunk Mountains)
The Mohonk Preserve offers a wide variety of trails, some of which lead to unique rock formations and stunning viewpoints. The cliffs and unique geological formations provide a varied and interesting hiking experience. Many trails offer spectacular overlooks and challenging climbs.
16. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (New Jersey/Pennsylvania Border)
This large recreation area offers countless miles of hiking trails with varied difficulty levels. The proximity to the Delaware River provides picturesque scenery and opportunities for water-based activities. The area's history adds another layer to the hiking experience.
17. Tiorati Brook Preserve (Harriman State Park)
Tiorati Brook Preserve offers a more secluded hiking experience within Harriman State Park. The trails wind along the Tiorati Brook, providing a refreshing and peaceful escape. This is a great option for those seeking tranquility.
Hikes with Stunning Views
These hikes are primarily chosen for their exceptional panoramic views.
18. The Gunks (Shawngunk Mountains)
The Shawangunk Ridge, often referred to as "The Gunks," offers several trails with incredible views. The varied rock formations and expansive vistas create a memorable hiking experience. Many of the trails within the Gunks are challenging, and hikers should be appropriately prepared.
19. Doodletown (New Jersey)
This abandoned village provides a fascinating historical and hiking experience. The trails wind through the ruins of the former town, offering a unique perspective on history. This hike combines history and nature, creating a memorable experience.
Remember to always prioritize safety when hiking. Inform someone of your plans, wear appropriate footwear and clothing, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be aware of your surroundings. Enjoy the stunning beauty of the natural world just a short distance from the bustling heart of New York City!
