There's no better place than New York to wear out your hiking boots. We have thousands of miles of scenic trails throughout the state. From the dunes and pine barrens of
Long Island, to towpaths along the Erie Canal, to the 46 magnificent
High Peaks of the
Adirondacks, hikers of every level enjoy our well-maintained network of trails.
The historic Appalachian Trail veers close to New York City at
Harriman-Bear Mountain Park and runs through the scenic
Hudson Valley. In
Hudson Highland Park, the Breakneck Ridge trail rewards hikers who make the steep trek with expansive views of the Hudson River.
The
Adirondack and
Catskill Forest preserves alone have nearly 1000 miles of foot trails. In
the Catskills, the Devil's Path trail will give you a real challenge with cliffhanging climbs. Trails near Phoenicia lead to amazing views at the top of Slide Mountain, the tallest peak in the Catskills. This is a popular area for family
camping as well as trout
fishing and tubing on the Esopus Creek. Another trail in the region, the Long Path takes you through the wild beauty of the Shawangunk Ridge, which attracts rock climbers from around the world.
Further north, pristine trails crisscross the
Adirondack Park's six million acres, with the nation’s largest trail system. Check with the Adirondack Mountain Club for information on hiking in the area. From the soaring heights of Mount Marcy to the quiet wilderness of Esther, the high peaks trails have terrain to suit just about every hiker. The
Adirondack Loj, a rustic B&B and information center at the closest access point to the high peaks wilderness, offers family programs and orientation for day hikers.
In the
Finger Lakes, birders love to hike amid the 8,000 acres of the
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, home to more than 300 species of birds and other
wildlife. The trail at
Watkins Glen State Park winds over and under 19 waterfalls as it follows the stream’s path.
Trails at the
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center, in the
Thousand Islands-Seaway region, follow sandy shores and lead to a butterfly house and
swimming beaches. The vast
Allegany State Park in
Chautauqua-Allegheny has over 90 miles of groomed trails around mountain lakes and through lush forests.
Point virtually anywhere on a map of New York. Wherever you decide to travel, you'll find a great trail to explore.