12 Best Hikes in New York City + Trails Map

The Big Apple provides no shortage of attractions and activities, but it’s also nice to take an NYC hike and explore the quieter aspects of the city. One of the best things to do outside NYC is to spend a few hours enjoying the natural beauty surrounding the metropolis, so, when you have some free time and need a break from the noise and crowds, check out one of these nearby trails!

In this guide, I`ll share the 12 best nearby hikes from New York City, including some merely minutes from Manhattan. Others are somewhat farther, but the amazing views, fresh air, and stunning scenery make the trip worthwhile.

Keep reading to discover the premier hikes in New York City, and download your favored routes so you can safely navigate the trails.

1. Breakneck Ridge Loop, one of the top hikes near New York City

The Breakneck Ridge Loop takes place in Beacon, NY, one of the best day trips near NYC. Specifically, it lies within Hudson Highlands State Park, so upon completing this hike close to NYC, you can explore downtown Beacon and other attractions.

Regarding the route, it’s a challenging 3.2-mile hike, and I suggest traversing counter-clockwise around the loop for superb views from the onset. There are some steep elements of the path, and it can be slippery, so wear hiking boots. As you initiate the descent, you’ll pass Sugarloaf Mountain, and there is some scrambling involved, so you should be in good physical condition. Overall, it`s among the best NY hikes that`s not too lengthy yet still gets your heart rate up.

• Duration: 2 hrs
• Distance: 3.2 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Route type: Loop
• Challenges: Some portions can be steep and slippery
• Elevation gain: 1,250 ft

2. Storm King Mountain, a fun hike near NYC

Another excellent hiking route in New York is the Storm King Mountain Trail. It`s an intermediate path near Cornwall, NY that provides many scenic views and opportunities to observe wildlife. Be on the lookout for eagles, hawks, kestrels, and bobolinks.

Begin at the Howell Trailhead following the looped route in a clockwise motion, paying attention to the map as trails lack clear indications at times. Rock climbing and gentle scrambling are involved too, though none are too strenuous. Elevation gains are moderate but rewards exist through scenic views of the Hudson River valley, making it one of the excellent family hikes near NYC.

• Timeframe: 1 hr, 15 mins
• Distance: 2.4 miles
• Level of difficulty: Moderate
• Route type: Loop
• Obstacles: Rocks, climbing
• Increase in elevation: 629 ft

3. Bear Mountain Loop Trail, a dog-friendly hiking trail near NYC

The Bear Mountain Loop Trail is a family-friendly hike tucked within the Highlands of NY. It`s well-maintained but going counter-clockwise offers the best views over Bear Mountain State Park, particularly when visiting NYC in autumn.

As you enter the park, you can leave your car in the lot, but you’ll have to pay the admission fee ($10). Starting at the trailhead, begin your ascent up to the Perkins Memorial Tower. Some climbing is required to pass the beautiful Hessian Lake and reach a viewpoint overlooking the Hudson River.

While parts of the trail are steep, it’s a dog-friendly hiking route near NYC so it’s perfect for a family experience.

• Duration: 2 hrs
• Distance: 3.8 miles
• Level of difficulty: Moderate
• Route type: Loop
• Obstacles: Demanding climbs, steep portions
• Altitude gain: 1,154 ft

4. Bull Hill Loop Trail (Mt. Taurus), another scenic hike near NYC

The Hudson Highlands State Park is one of the most excellent places to hike in NY, therefore another path I suggest doing is the Bull Hill Loop Trail. This circular route starts at the Little Stony Point parking lot and takes a few hours to complete.

Follow the marked white trail and proceed along the old quarry road, then continue around, paying careful consideration to the steep parts of the route. It’s an intermediate hike, so the only truly difficult part should be the steep ascent at the beginning. Watch your footing, but also keep an eye out for glimpses of the NYC skyline, the Hudson River, and the Catskill Mountains in the distance.

At the end of the trail, you’ll pass an abandoned estate and greenhouse, which is a unique end to one of the best hikes near NYC. Not only that, but this trail is near Cold Spring, NY, another fun place to go outside NYC.

• Time period: 2 hrs, 45 mins
• Distance: 5.4 miles
• Level of difficulty: Moderate
• Route type: Loop
• Challenges: A steep ascent.
• Altitude gain: 1,391 ft

5. Anthony’s Nose, a popular short hike near NYC

A hike close to NYC that you can include in your itinerary is Anthony’s Nose. It is in the Hudson Highlands, specifically in Cortlandt, NY, which is near Cold Spring.

This short, roughly two mile route provides nice views and scenery along the way, despite not taking long to complete. The trail is kept in good condition and draws many visitors, so expect a busy atmosphere particularly on nicer spring days. If crowds could pose an issue given high turnout, make plans accordingly.

Anthony’s Nose is a section of the Appalachian Trail near NYC, and the most challenging part is at the beginning. A steep incline must be dealt with, but nice views reward those who reach the top. The surrounding flora, fauna, and little stream make it a good day hike to undertake with children, and exploration of the nearby towns can follow afterward.

• Duration: 1 hr
• Distance: 3.8 miles
• Level of difficulty: Moderate
• Route classification: Out & back
• Challenges: Overcrowding, a steep ascent
• Increase in elevation: 675 ft

6. Arden Point and Glenclyffe, an easy hike near NYC with a waterfall

In the area of Garrison, NY, the Arden Point and Glenclyffe route is another easy hike located near NYC with minimal difficulty to follow, although the path may not be clearly marked. You’ll want to use the map provided to ensure you stay on course and don’t risk losing your way, as that’s the sole challenge you should encounter on this hike.

It’s an easy 3.8-mile loop that’s best tackled between April and October. If you go on a weekend, you can park free of charge at the Garrison train station, then set off along the trail, which follows the Hudson River and features much natural scenery you’ll want to admire.

Take your time because there is a lot to see, like the bamboo shoots along the path, the beautiful streams, and fields of wildflowers. Also, this is a nice hiking trail near NYC with a waterfall, although your best chances of viewing it are after adequate rainfall.

• Timeframe: 1 hr, 30 mins
• Distance: 3.8 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Route type: Loop
• Obstacles: Trail isn’t clearly marked
• Increase in elevation: 278 ft

7. Stairway to Heaven, a beautiful New Jersey hike near NYC

If you’re willing to travel outside of the state, the Stairway to Heaven is one of the top hiking trails close to NYC. Located in Vernon, NJ, this out and back course can demand some effort, but it’s only 2.6 miles and doesn’t require an excessive elevation gain.

You’ll initiate with a steep rise up Wawayanda Mountain, pursuing the Appalachian Trail. After the climb, the path persists to a viewpoint, where you can see Pochuck Mountain and, in the distance, the Catskills and the Kittatinny’s. This vista is difficult to locate, so keep an eye out for the footpath.

Another fine aspect of this New Jersey hike near NYC is the landscape visible on the descent. Hikers will pass several waterfalls but should watch their footing as there are rocky areas where it is easy to slip. Moreover, the Stairway to Heaven is equally distant from High Point State Park and Ringwood State Park, two of the best places to explore in New Jersey.

• Timeframe: 1 hr, 30 mins
• Distance: 5.4 miles
• Level of difficulty: Moderate
• Route classification: Out & back
• Obstacles: Steep ascent and rocky descent
• Increase in elevation: 889 ft

8. Old Croton Aqueduct, another easy backcountry hike near New York City

The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail is a lengthy, yet simple route, and an enjoyable place to go cross-country skiing or backpacking near New York City.

As part of Croton Point County Park, this out and return path provides a lot to see, making it the perfect day hiking trip from NYC. The aqueduct was used between 1837 and 1842 to distribute water from the Croton River over 40 miles to Manhattan, though it`s no longer used. While no longer functional, it remains an impressive sight to witness personally, especially after heavy rain.

In addition to the Old Croton Aqueduct, this route serves as a haven for bird watchers and wildlife spotters, so keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, wild rabbits, red-bellied woodpeckers, and other species present. The trail is predominately level and has picnic areas where you can take a break. Also, once you reach the end, you’ll be near Sleepy Hollow, one of the best daytrips from NYC, so consider checking it out.

• Time period: 3 hrs, 20 mins
• Distance: 1.9 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Route classification: Out & back
• Obstacles: Parts of the trail aren’t well-marked
• Increase in elevation: 439 ft

9. Mount Beacon Loop, a challenging hiking trail near NYC

The Mount Beacon Loop trail is a more challenging route, but it`s one of the finest hiking experiences in New York, so it`s worth undertaking.

Begin at the Mount Beacon Incline Parkway lot, then follow the red trail for the steep ascent. This is the most difficult part of the hike, but the path is more gradual on the return downhill. The red trail will connect to the yellow trail, but the markings aren’t always clear, so bring your map. You’ll then link to the white trail over the brook, which leads to Rainbow Falls. With some luck, the falls won’t be dry!

Once more, this is an excellent hike outside of NYC, but you should be in good bodily condition to do it. Keep an eye out for various bird species, like warblers and woodpeckers, and don’t forget to admire the gorgeous views. You’ll have the ability to see the New York skyline from up here, and when you pass the Beacon Fire Tower, climb up for stunning panoramic views.

• Time period: 3 hrs, 30 mins
• Distance: 2.6 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Route type: Loop
• Challenges: A steep ascent.
• Altitude gain: 1,791 ft

10. Lake Skenonto Loop, a lovely hike near New York City to see wildlife

The Lake Skenonto Loop is another excellent hike close to NYC and a moderately challenging 8.1-mile loop. It’s over in Harriman State Park, one of the best weekend escapes from NYC.

Nature lovers will value this peaceful walking trail near NYC, which is best done between April and October. It makes for a serene backpacking trip or day hike, although there are primitive campsites by the lake. Speaking of which, the lake views are magnificent, and it’s the perfect spot to take a break and soak in the scenery.

This is a quiet and enjoyable hike, but there are lots of snakes present, so be mindful. Also, black bears have been spotted in the area, so don’t leave food lying around.

• Time period: 3 hrs, 45 mins
• Distance: 8.8 miles
• Level of difficulty: Moderate
• Route type: Loop
• Obstacles: Snakes
• Altitude gain: 1,505 ft

11. Reeves Brook Loop, a great hike near NYC you must do

The Reeves Brook Loop, also within Harriman State Park, is undoubtedly one of the top hikes within a two hour range of NYC. This moderate route involves minimal elevation gain but navigating accurately can prove challenging.

Start at the parked vehicles and head upwards on the mountain, being aware that the steep climb necessitates some scrambling. I propose experiencing this loop counterclockwise, from the white trail to the blue trail to make it simpler and to obtain enhanced perspectives. At the summit, you can see the New York City skyline prominently, and the vista is tremendous, so it’s no wonder this is one of the top-rated hikes in the park.

Many consider this one of the overall best hiking trails near NYC, and you’ll see lots of waterways during the hike, including streams, waterfalls, and the brook. The descent is steep and the trail links up with other paths, so it’s easy to get lost. Again, follow the map, and you should be okay.

• Duration: 2 hrs
• Distance: 3.8 miles
• Level of difficulty: Moderate
• Route type: Loop
• Obstacles: Easy to go off course, scrambling, steep terrain
• Increase in elevation: 872 ft

“

”

12. Staten Island Greenbelt, the best hike on NYC’s Staten Island

This last route is ideal for those who don’t want to travel far but are looking for outdoor activities in NYC. The Staten Island Greenbelt has the best hiking in New York, with little elevation gain, a well-maintained path, and lots of scenery.

This walk on Staten Island starts and concludes at the Greenbelt Nature Center in Latourette Park. There is ample parking space and it’s very close to Manhattan, making it simple to access. The tree-lined route is suitable for children and winds past wetlands, streams, and ponds, providing a wonderful small escape from the city.

This peaceful natural area is home to many types of flora and fauna, including bullfrogs, salamanders, turtles, and white-tailed deer. Some of the bird species present include bluejays, cardinals, chickadees, hawks, and great horned owls. The trail is open all year, making it perfect for a last-minute hiking trip, particularly if you`re visiting Staten Island.

• Timeframe: 1 hr, 20 mins
• Distance: 6.7 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Route type: Loop
• Challenges: None
• Increase in elevation: 269 ft

Map of NYC hikes

That concludes the discussion of the best hikes in NYC, but one last point I want to emphasize is a map. Use it to check out all the NYC walking trails referenced above and choose which ones you`d like to explore.

Also, if you’ve trekked any of the hiking paths within New York City, or if you have any inquiries, please leave me a comment below. I’d be pleased to hear from you! Until then, happy hiking!