Beginner's Guide to Hiking in New York State

New York’s great outdoors are calling… it’s time to hit the trails! From breathtaking mountain vistas and wooded forests to sandy coastline and epic waterfalls, thousands of miles of trails for all abilities await throughout New York State’s diverse landscapes. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered! Here’s everything you need to know about planning your first hiking adventure in the Empire State. Photo credit: @kb.hikes on Instagram.

@kvencato on Instagram

Choose your trail

New York State is home to thousands of miles of trails and some of America’s greatest terrain! Whether you’re looking to chase waterfalls, admire breathtaking mountain views, or stroll alongside glittery lakes, there’s truly a trail for every landscape and hiking level. The NYS Parks and DEC websites are a great resource for beginners searching for the perfect trail, as well as hiking apps such as AllTrails, where you can find trails and look up reviews. Before choosing the right trail, beginners should consider a few things:

Trail rating. Beginners should stick to trails rated easy.

Distance and elevation gain. If you’re just starting out, look for trails in the 2-4 mile range with little elevation gain, usually less than 400 feet per mile.

Fitness level. Be realistic about group fitness and skill levels.
Type of scenery. What type of views are you looking for?
Weather and season. Be aware of seasonal conditions (snow, ice, rain, etc) and check the weather forecast.

In the Hudson Valley, explore over 14,000 stunning acres at Clarence Fahnstock State Park, home to 37 trails of varying levels, including an 11-mile portion of the Appalachian Trail and great beginner trails such as the Peloton Pond Nature Trail (1.1 mile loop) and the Old Mine Railroad, Charcoal Burners, and 3 Lakes Loop (2.6 mile loop). Long Point State Park in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region features 320 acres of shoreline on Lake Chautauqua. Follow the 2.3-mile Long Point Loop Trail through peaceful woodlands and lakeside splendor. Beginners who live an active lifestyle and are looking for a little challenge may want to try the moderate two-mile out-and-back trail to the summit of Coney Mountain for 360-degree views of the Adirondack Mountains.

Accessible Hiking

New York State is packed with hiking adventures for visitors of all abilities! Visit NYSDEC Accessible Recreation Destination Map to explore the range of accessible features at DEC facilities, designed or renovated to be consistent with the U.S. Access Board Accessibility Guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Architectural Barriers Act (ABA), such as accessible trails, bathrooms, viewing platforms, and more. New York State residents with disabilities can apply for a NYS Access Pass, which allows free or discounted use of state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities operated by the NYS Parks and NYSDEC.

Accessible Trails

The Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center in the Hudson Valley is the perfect place for a peaceful hike on the Woodland Trail, a one-mile ADA accessible loop with a gentle grade (max. slope 10%), wide treat (min. width 4 feet), and firm compacted stone surface, that circles through a wooded swamp that was once a farm field. Wildlife enthusiasts should head to the Five Rivers Environmental Education Center in the Capital-Saratoga region for interpretive wildlife trails such as the Woodlot and Nature’s Accessible Backyard trails, both of which are ADA compliant. Letchworth State Park, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is home to the Autism Nature Trail, a first-of-its-kind experience designed for visitors on the autism spectrum and enjoyable for all. Experience the NORA Adaptive Hiking Program in the Catskills, where you can explore the rugged forest landscape from one of the Action Trackchairs (pictured).

What to wear

A great hike starts with dressing properly for the outdoors. If it’s your first time hiking, don’t worry about purchasing a bunch of new and expensive gear. Dressing comfortably is key to an amazing hike and you may already have the essentials in your closet! Here are a few things you’ll need when choosing your hiking attire:

Comfortable shoes or boots such as hiking boots, sneakers, or trail runners that are sturdy and waterproof.
Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics will keep your skin dry and help regulate your body temperature in both cold and warm weather. Avoid cotton as it holds moisture.
Layered clothing as weather can change quickly even for warm weather hikes.
Light-colored clothing will make it easier to see ticks.
Watch or other time-keeping device.
Snowshoes or other traction devices in the winter.
Insect repellant will help protect against ticks and other insects, which are most active in the spring, summer, and fall. Click here for more information about preventing tick bites.

Pack the right gear

Now that you’ve picked out the perfect hiking outfit, it’s time to pack the 10 hiking essentials. These essential items will not only give you peace of mind on your adventure, but also help in the event of minor injuries, sudden weather changes, or unexpected delays. Be sure to check off all of these items, which can be easily carried in small backpack, before hitting the trails:

Navigation: Map, compass, GPS system.
Insulation/Rain Gear: Waterproof/windproof jacket, hat, gloves, thermal undergarments (pack extra), wool socks (pack extra), goggles (winter), face mask (winter).
Light: headlamp, flashlight, lanterns, extra batteries.
First aid supplies: Use a pre-made kit or build your own.
Emergency kit: Whistle, signal mirror, duct tape, pocket knife/multi-tool, brightly-colored cloth.
Fire: Matches in a waterproof container, lighter, fire starters.
Nutrition: Choose high protein and high calorie items, pack extra food, in the winter break food into small pieces and pack in the center of the pack to avoid freezing.
Water: Carry more than you think you will need, pack at least two liters per person, water filtration or purifying system, in the winter insulate your hydro-tubing or pack water in the center of pack to avoid freezing.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat.
Emergency shelter: space blanket, tarp, or tent.

@hunterfamilyoutdooradventures on Instagram

Make a plan

The most important part of your hiking adventure is staying safe! Before arriving at the trailhead, be sure to visit Parks, DEC, or destination websites for trail closures, updates, and a full list of rules and regulations. The best way to make sure your hike goes off without a hitch is to make a plan. Visit DEC to learn more about hiking safety and Hike Smart NY, and check out this list before heading out there:

Know the regulations and special concerns such as trail closures, construction, and weather conditions for the area you'll visit.

Check the current forecast and trail conditions the night before and day of your hike.
Leave trip plans with family or friends. Let others know where you’ll be, your planned route, and when to expect you back. Update with any plan changes.
Have a back up plan. During peak seasons, popular trails can be crowded and parking lots can fill up quickly. Be sure to research other hikes nearby as a back up.
Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies. Save emergency phone numbers such as 911 and DEC Dispatch (1-833-NYS-RANGERS) in your phone.
Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.
Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups.
Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns, or flagging.

@no3rdw on Instagram

Love Our New York Lands

The Empire State is home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the world! Help ensure that New York stays beautiful for generations to come by learning about Love Our New York Lands, the statewide effort to protect and care for our public lands and the people who enjoy them. Simple actions such as staying on trails, picking up trash, and being prepared play a part in keeping our state clean, healthy, and enjoyable for all. For more information about Love Our New York Lands, visit the NYSDEC website.

Leave No Trace Principles

Do your part to protect New York lands and follow Leave No Trace Principles! These seven principles act as a guide for how to respect all outdoor spaces, from remote wilderness areas to local parks.

Trail etiquette and tips

Still looking for some pointers before you get out there? Check out NYS Parks Trail Tips for a full list of trail tips, safety, and etiquette. Plus, here are some tips and tricks to take your hiking adventure to new heights:

Stay on the trail. Shortcutting the trail destroys vegetation, leads to erosion, reduces habitat quality, and causes unsightly damage to the landscape.
Avoid using trails when they are excessively muddy. If you encounter mud on the trail, walk through, not around, mud and puddles on trails to avoid eroding and widening trails.
Hike with a friend or small group.
Respect other visitors. We all share state lands! Be courteous toward fellow adventurers.
Use extra caution with headphones. Or avoid headphone use altogether. You may not be able to hear your surroundings or warnings.
Keep your dog under control at all times.
Share the trail. Keep to the right except to pass. When in doubt, give the other user the right of way and hike single file in groups when approaching other groups. Hikers going downhill should yield to those going uphill.
Always have a physical trail map or pre-download map if using your phone. Cell service isn’t always available in certain areas.

Photo credit: @annam228 on Instagram.

Follow an experienced guide

Let the experts guide you through New York’s spectacular scenery! Through the New York State Outdoor Guides Association, you can search for area guides, licensed by the State of New York as professional guides who have passed the Department of Environmental Conservation proficiency exam for skill and ability in the woods and on the water. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced hiker, 360 Guiding offers up memorable experiences for all with customized guided hikes and outdoor adventures throughout the Catskills, Hudson Valley, and Adirondacks. Get lost in beautiful waterfall views and lush forests with Nature with Nikki in the Finger Lakes. A variety of guided hikes and other activities are offered at state parks like Niagara Falls, where you can fall for a hiking experience like no other. Guided hikes are tailored to all abilities and focus on themes ranging from stargazing to fall foliage to birdwatching.

@rfitnesstravel on Instagram

Hiking Challenges

Up for a challenge? New York State is home to all kinds of hiking challenges, whether you’re looking to expand your hiking horizons or earn some patches (and bragging rights)! The Tupper Lake Triad is a great beginner challenge with three family-friendly, moderate trails, each under three miles round-trip and featuring breathtaking Adirondack views. The Catskills Fire Tower Challenge is perfect for those looking to take their hiking to new heights (literally), where you’ll trek to the six DEC-managed fire towers in one year. If you’re spending some time along the Erie Canal (celebrating the Bicentennial perhaps?), take the Erie Canalway Trail Challenge. Set your personal mileage goal, ranging from the 15-miler to 360-end-to-ender, and start exploring the 360-mile Canalway Trail. For advanced hikers, the Adirondack 46er is the ultimate hiking challenge, offering an opportunity to hike all 46 of the mighty Adirondack High Peaks. The Lake Placid 9er and Lake George 12ster also offer amazing experiences and vistas in the Adirondacks region.

Events

From guided hikes and group birdwatching to community clean ups and kids crafts, check out these events throughout the state to add to your hiking adventure! Get Outdoors & Get Together Day takes place on June 14, where parks throughout the state will be hosting inclusive and accessible family-friendly activities such as walks and hikes, birding, fishing, archery, paddling, outdoor safety, camping demos, accessible recreation, and more! Each year on the first Saturday of May, thousands of volunteers join Parks & Trails New York for the largest single-day volunteer event in the state, I Love my Park Day, where you’ll help clean up parks and shorelines, plant trees and gardens, restore trails and wildlife habitat, remove invasive species, and more. Celebrate Earth Day at Canal Clean Sweep, the annual statewide clean-up event that occurs along major greenways across New York State. Start the New Year off right with a First Day Hike at state parks across New York, where you can sign up for self-guided treks or staff- or volunteer-led hikes on January 1. For a full lineup of events, check out the NYS Parks Calendar.

Don't forget to post photos of your New York adventures on TikTok, Instagram and Twitter with #iSpyNY and tag us on Facebook!