New York City is famous for its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and endless entertainment options, but many people don’t realize that it’s also surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country. From dense forests to rolling hills and crystal-clear lakes, there’s no shortage of breathtaking hikes near the city that nature lovers can add to their itinerary on their next trip. Here’s a guide to some of the best hikes near New York City.
Located just an hour’s drive from the city, Harriman State Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering over 200 miles of trails through dense forests, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lakes. With a range of trails that suit different levels of experience and interests, there’s something for everyone. Some of the most popular trails include:
Appalachian Trail
This trail is a 2,190-mile-long national scenic trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine. In Harriman State Park, the trail covers a distance of 42 miles and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Seven Lakes Drive
This trail is a 18.6-mile loop that takes hikers around seven picturesque lakes in the park. The trail is relatively easy and is suitable for beginners.
Timp-Torne Trail
This trail is a 6.9-mile loop that takes hikers to the top of Bald Mountain, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River and the surrounding countryside. The trail is moderately difficult and is suitable for hikers with some experience.
Located just an hour and a half from the city, Bear Mountain State Park is another great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs. Here are some of the most popular trails:
Perkins Memorial Tower Trail
This trail is a 1.5-mile hike that takes hikers to the top of Bear Mountain, where they can enjoy sweeping views of the Hudson River. The trail is relatively easy and is suitable for beginners.
Hudson River Loop Trail
This trail is a 4.5-mile loop that follows the Hudson River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is moderately difficult and is suitable for hikers with some experience.
Palisades Interstate Park
Located just 15 minutes from the George Washington Bridge, the Palisades Interstate Park is a great option for those looking for a hike that’s a little closer to the city. The park offers a variety of trails that range from easy walks to strenuous hikes. Some of the most popular trails include:
High Tor Trail
This trail is a 3.3-mile hike that takes hikers to the top of High Tor Mountain, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River. The trail is moderately difficult and is suitable for hikers with some experience.
Long Path
This trail is a 342-mile trail that stretches from New York to Albany. In Palisades Interstate Park, the trail covers a distance of 6.8 miles and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is moderately difficult and is suitable for hikers with some experience.
Located just an hour’s drive from the city, Sterling Forest State Park offers over 20 miles of trails that traverse dense forests, rolling hills, and babbling streams. Here are some of the most popular trails:
Sterling Ridge Trail
This trail is a 4.4-mile loop that offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is moderately difficult and is suitable for hikers with some experience.
Lake Trail
This trail is a 6-mile loop that takes hikers around a serene lake surrounded by lush forest. The trail is relatively easy and is suitable for beginners.
New York City may be known for its concrete jungle, but it’s surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s a hike near the city that will suit your level of experience and interests. From Harriman State Park’s 200 miles of trails to Breakneck Ridge’s challenging climb, there’s no shortage of breathtaking hikes to add to your itinerary on your next trip.
