Discover the hidden natural gems just a stone's throw from NYC's skyline, as we unveil the top hiking trails that promise adventure, serenity, and unforgettable vistas.
Escape the hustle and bustle of New York City and reconnect with nature by exploring the top hiking trails near the Big Apple. Despite its urban reputation, NYC and its surrounding areas offer an array of scenic outdoor adventures that cater to both novice and experienced hikers.
From serene riverside strolls to rugged mountain climbs, these trails promise breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and a chance to recharge in the great outdoors.
Whether you're a local looking for a weekend getaway or a visitor eager to explore beyond the city skyline, our guide will lead you to the most captivating hiking experiences in the vicinity of the city that never sleeps.
1) The Hudson River Greenway
The Hudson River Greenway is a great hiking trail near NYC because it is:
- Long and varied: The greenway is 12.9 miles long and runs through a variety of parks and neighborhoods, offering hikers stunning views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline.
- Easy to access: The greenway is accessible by public transportation, making it easy for city dwellers to get to and from the trail.
- Well-maintained: The greenway is well-maintained and paved, making it a safe and comfortable place to hike.
- Popular: The greenway is a popular spot for hikers, walkers, and cyclists, so there is always something to see and do.
Here are some additional benefits of hiking the Hudson River Greenway:
- It's a great way to get exercise. Hiking is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints and can help you burn calories, improve your cardiovascular health, and strengthen your muscles.
- It's a great way to reduce stress. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mood.
- It's a great way to learn about local history and culture. The greenway passes by many historical sites and landmarks, such as the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and the Little Red Lighthouse.
- It's a great way to meet new people. The greenway is a popular spot for people from all walks of life, so it's a great place to meet new people and make friends.
Overall, the Hudson River Greenway is a great hiking trail near NYC because it is long, varied, easy to access, well-maintained, and popular. It's also a great way to get exercise, reduce stress, learn about local history and culture, and meet new people.
Recommended: The Best Hiking Boots
2) Inwood Hill Park
Inwood Hill Park is a good hiking trail near NYC for a number of reasons:
- It is the only remaining forest on Manhattan Island. This makes it a unique and special place to hike, offering a chance to experience nature in the heart of the city.
- It has a variety of trails to choose from. There are easy trails for beginners, as well as more challenging trails for experienced hikers.
- It is located near the Hudson River, offering stunning views of the water and the city skyline.
- It is a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds spotted in the park.
- It is easily accessible by public transportation. The A train has a stop at Dyckman Street, which is just a short walk from the park entrance.
In addition to these reasons, Inwood Hill Park is also a good hiking trail near NYC because it is relatively quiet and uncrowded, especially compared to other popular hiking trails in the area. This makes it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful hike in nature.
Here are some specific trails in Inwood Hill Park that are good for hiking:
- The Orange Trail: This is a 1.5-mile loop trail that is moderately challenging. It offers scenic views of the Hudson River and the city skyline.
- The Blue Trail: This is a 2.8-mile loop trail that is also moderately challenging. It leads to Shorakkopoch Rock, a large rock formation with stunning views of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge.
- The Henry Hudson Greenway: This is a 10.3-mile paved trail that runs along the Hudson River. It is a great option for a leisurely hike or bike ride.
No matter what your hiking skill level or interests are, you are sure to find a trail in Inwood Hill Park that is perfect for you.
3) Van Cortland Park
Van Cortlandt Park is a good hiking trail near NYC for several reasons:
- Size: Van Cortlandt Park is New York City's third largest park, with over 1,100 acres of land to explore. This gives hikers plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the outdoors.
- Variety: Van Cortlandt Park has a variety of hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy to moderate to difficult. This makes it a good choice for hikers of all levels of experience.
- Location: Van Cortlandt Park is located in the Bronx, just a short train ride from Manhattan. This makes it a convenient option for New Yorkers who want to get a hike in without having to travel far.
- Nature: Van Cortlandt Park is home to a variety of natural features, including forests, wetlands, and a lake. This makes it a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the New York City area.
- Other activities: In addition to hiking, Van Cortlandt Park offers a variety of other activities, including biking, fishing, picnicking, and horseback riding. This makes it a great place to spend a day outdoors with family and friends.
Here are some specific hiking trails in Van Cortlandt Park that are worth checking out:
- Van Cortlandt Park Trail: This 7.5-mile loop trail takes hikers through a variety of different habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows.
- Putnam Greenway: This 4.1-mile paved trail is a good option for hikers of all levels of experience. It offers scenic views of the Hudson River and the Palisades.
- John Muir Nature Trail: This 2-mile trail takes hikers through three different forest types: oak-hickory, maple-beech, and hemlock.
- Cass Gallagher Nature Trail: This 1.4-mile trail is a good option for hikers who are looking for a shorter, easier hike. It takes hikers through a variety of different habitats, including forests, meadows, and streams.
Van Cortlandt Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the outdoors. With its variety of hiking trails and other activities, it has something to offer everyone.
4) Pelham Bay Park
Pelham Bay Park is a good hiking trail near NYC for a number of reasons:
- It is the largest park in New York City, with over 2,700 acres of land to explore. This means that there is a lot of variety in the hiking trails, from easy loops to more challenging hikes.
- The park is home to a variety of different habitats, including forests, meadows, wetlands, and shoreline. This makes it a great place to see a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles.
- The park is located in the Bronx, which is just a short train ride from Manhattan. This makes it easy to get to the park from the city, even if you don't have a car.
- The park is free to enter, so it is a great option for budget-minded hikers.
Here are some specific hiking trails in Pelham Bay Park that are worth checking out:
- Hunter Island Loop Trail: This 2.0-mile loop trail is a good option for hikers of all levels. It winds through a variety of habitats, including forest, wetland, and shoreline.
- Twin Islands Loop Trail: This 1.7-mile loop trail is another good option for hikers of all levels. It offers views of the Twin Islands, which are two small islands located just off the coast of Pelham Bay Park.
- Siwanoy Trail Loop: This 2.0-mile loop trail is a good option for hikers who are looking for a more challenging hike. It includes some steep hills and uneven terrain.
- Split Rock Trail: This 0.32-mile trail leads to a large glacial boulder that has been split in two. It is a short hike, but it offers great views of the surrounding area.
In addition to hiking, Pelham Bay Park also offers a variety of other activities, including swimming, fishing, picnicking, and biking. It is a great place to spend a day in the outdoors, especially if you live in or near NYC.
Recommended: The Best Hiking Boots
5) Palisades Interstate Park
Palisades Interstate Park is a good hiking trail near NYC for a number of reasons:
- Close proximity: The park is located just a short drive or train ride from Manhattan and other parts of NYC, making it a convenient option for a quick getaway.
- Variety of trails: The park offers a variety of hiking trails to suit all levels of experience, from easy riverside walks to challenging rock scrambles.
- Scenic views: The park is known for its stunning views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline.
- Abundant wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, coyotes, and birds.
- Historical significance: The park has a rich history dating back to the Native Americans. It was also a popular destination for artists and writers in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Here are some specific hiking trails in Palisades Interstate Park that are popular with NYC residents:
- White Shore and Long Path Loop Trail: This 4.7-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline. It also passes through a variety of natural habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky outcrops.
- Long Path and Shore Loop: This 3.5-mile loop trail is a good option for hikers who want to experience the best of both worlds: scenic views and a variety of terrain.
- Allison Park Loop: This 2.1-mile loop trail is a good option for families or hikers who want a shorter, easier hike. It passes through a variety of natural habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands.
- Huyler's Landing and Closter Dock Trail Loop from Alpine Headquarters: This 4.5-mile loop trail offers a variety of scenery, including forests, meadows, and rocky outcrops. It also passes by the ruins of a former ironworks factory.
Palisades Interstate Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of NYC and enjoy the beauty of nature. With its variety of trails, stunning views, and abundant wildlife, it has something to offer everyone.
6) Harriman State Park
Harriman State Park is a good hiking trail near NYC for a number of reasons:
- Proximity: Harriman State Park is located just 30 miles north of New York City, making it an easy day trip for city dwellers.
- Variety of trails: Harriman State Park has over 200 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, so there is something for everyone.
- Scenic beauty: Harriman State Park is home to a variety of landscapes, including mountains, lakes, forests, and streams.
- Wildlife: Harriman State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, foxes, and coyotes.
- Amenities: Harriman State Park has a number of amenities, including parking areas, restrooms, and picnic areas.
Here are some specific hiking trails in Harriman State Park that are popular with hikers from NYC:
- Reeves Brook Loop Trail: This easy 1.6-mile loop trail is a great option for families and hikers of all levels. It follows a scenic stream and offers views of the surrounding mountains.
- Island Pond Mountain Loop: This moderate 6.5-mile loop trail offers stunning views of Island Pond and the surrounding mountains.
- Bear Mountain Trail: This challenging 3-mile trail climbs to the top of Bear Mountain, where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River and the surrounding countryside.
- Long Path: The Long Path is a 350-mile hiking trail that passes through Harriman State Park. Hikers can choose to hike a short section of the trail or a longer multi-day hike.
No matter what your hiking experience level or interests are, you are sure to find a trail in Harriman State Park that you will enjoy.
7) Bear Mountain State Park
Bear Mountain State Park is a good hiking trail near NYC because it is:
- Close to NYC: Bear Mountain State Park is located just about 50 miles north of New York City, making it an easy day trip for city dwellers.
- Accessible by public transportation: The Metro-North Hudson Line train stops at the Bear Mountain State Park station, making it easy to get to the park without a car.
- Variety of trails: Bear Mountain State Park has over 50 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. This makes it a great place for hikers of all levels to find a trail that is right for them.
- Scenic views: Bear Mountain State Park offers stunning views of the Hudson River, the Hudson Highlands, and the surrounding mountains. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views from the top of Bear Mountain, Breakneck Ridge, and other peaks in the park.
- Other activities: In addition to hiking, Bear Mountain State Park offers a variety of other activities, such as camping, fishing, boating, and swimming. This makes it a great place to spend a day or a weekend enjoying the outdoors.
Here are some specific hiking trails in Bear Mountain State Park that are popular with NYC residents:
- Anthony's Nose: This moderate to challenging trail offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the Hudson Highlands.
- Bald Mountain: This easy to moderate trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Major Welch Trail: This moderate to challenging trail takes hikers through a variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, and rocky cliffs.
- Appalachian Trail: The Appalachian Trail passes through Bear Mountain State Park, providing hikers with the opportunity to experience a section of this iconic long-distance trail.
If you are looking for a good hiking trail near NYC, Bear Mountain State Park is a great option. With its variety of trails, scenic views, and other activities, Bear Mountain State Park has something to offer everyone.
8) Storm King State Park
Storm King State Park is a good hiking trail near NYC for a number of reasons:
- It is close. Storm King State Park is located in New Windsor, New York, just about an hour drive from Manhattan. This makes it a convenient option for a day trip or weekend getaway.
- It has a variety of trails. Storm King State Park has over 13 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. There is something for everyone, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned hiker.
- It offers stunning views. Storm King State Park is situated on the banks of the Hudson River and offers panoramic views of the river, the Catskill Mountains, and the surrounding countryside. The views are especially beautiful in the fall, when the leaves change color.
- It is home to a world-class sculpture park. In addition to its hiking trails, Storm King State Park is also home to a world-class sculpture park. The park features over 100 sculptures by renowned artists such as Alexander Calder, Henry Moore, and Auguste Rodin. Visitors can combine their hike with a visit to the sculpture park to make for a truly unique experience.
Here are some specific hiking trails in Storm King State Park that are worth checking out:
- Storm King Mountain Loop: This moderate 2.4-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding countryside.
- North Point and Pitching Point Loop: This moderate 2.6-mile loop trail takes hikers to two of the park's most scenic overlooks.
- Butter Hill via Orange and Yellow Trail: This moderate 2.2-mile loop trail offers a variety of terrain, including forests, meadows, and rocky outcrops.
- Stillman Trail: This challenging 3.5-mile trail climbs to the highest point in the park and offers panoramic views of the Hudson Valley.
If you are looking for a good hiking trail near NYC that offers stunning views, a variety of terrain, and a unique cultural experience, then Storm King State Park is a great option.
Recommended: The Best Hiking Boots
9) Ramapo Valley County Reservation
Ramapo Valley County Reservation is a good hiking trail near NYC for several reasons:
- Distance: It is located just 30 miles from Manhattan, making it a convenient day trip destination.
- Accessibility: The park is easily accessible by car, public transportation, or bike.
- Variety: The park has over 40 miles of hiking trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. There are also several loop trails, making it easy to customize your hike to your desired length and fitness level.
- Scenery: The park offers a variety of scenic views, including hills, valleys, forests, lakes, and streams. There are also several waterfalls, including the popular Laurelwood Arboretum Waterfall.
- Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, foxes, squirrels, and birds.
Here are some specific hiking trails in Ramapo Valley County Reservation that are popular with NYC residents:
- Vista Loop Trail: This 4.9-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the NYC skyline, as well as a variety of other scenery, including a lake, waterfall, and cactus grove.
- MacMillan Reservoir Loop Trail: This 4.6-mile loop trail circles a scenic reservoir and offers several opportunities to swim.
- Ramapo Ramble Trail: This 5.2-mile loop trail is a great option for hikers of all levels, with moderate elevation gain and a variety of scenery.
- Ramapo Reservation Loop Trail: This 7.1-mile loop trail is a more challenging option, with steeper elevation gain. However, it offers some of the most rewarding views in the park.
In addition to hiking, Ramapo Valley County Reservation also offers a variety of other activities, including camping, fishing, and swimming. The park also has a nature center and several picnic areas.
10) South Mountain Reservation
South Mountain Reservation is a good hiking trail near NYC for several reasons:
- Proximity: It is located just across the border from New Jersey, in Essex County, making it easily accessible by public transportation or car from New York City.
- Variety of trails: The park has over 40 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, so there is something for everyone.
- Scenic beauty: The park is home to a variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, streams, and waterfalls.
- Abundant wildlife: The park is a great place to see deer, foxes, birds, and other wildlife.
- Historical significance: The park is home to several historic sites, including Washington Rock, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Here are some specific hiking trails in South Mountain Reservation that are popular with hikers from NYC:
- Hemlock Falls Trail: This 2.2-mile loop trail features a small waterfall and scenic views of the Rahway River.
- Lenape Trail: This 13.7-mile out-and-back trail is a section of the longer Lenape Trail, which runs through several counties in New Jersey. The Lenape Trail offers a variety of scenery, including forests, meadows, and streams.
- Crest Trail: This 4.5-mile loop trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Orange Reservoir Loop: This 3.5-mile loop trail circles the Orange Reservoir, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding forests.
To get to South Mountain Reservation from NYC, you can take the NJ Transit train to the Maplewood station. From the station, it is a short walk to the park entrance. You can also drive to the park, but be aware that parking can be limited on weekends and holidays.
Wrapping Things Up
As your journey through these remarkable trails near NYC comes to an end, we hope you've found inspiration to lace up your hiking boots and explore the great outdoors just beyond the city limits.
Whether you seek tranquility in lush forests, panoramic city views from mountain peaks, or the thrill of rugged terrain, the trails surrounding the Big Apple have something for every hiker.
So, gather your gear, embrace the beauty of nature, and embark on your next adventure, knowing that the serenity of the wilderness is always within reach for those who seek it.
Happy hiking!
