• Are there good hiking spots near New York City?
  • How can you get to hiking trails from NYC?
  • What are some of the best NYC hiking day trips?
    • Here are some of the best NYC hiking day trips you can try out.

Best Time for Hiking Day Trips from NYC

  • April to June – Ideal for mild weather, blooming flowers, and scenic trails.
  • September to October – Perfect for vibrant fall foliage and cooler hiking conditions.
  • July & August – Warm summer days great for shaded forest trails and mountain hikes.
  • November – Enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds on popular trails.
  • December to March – Cold but great for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and peaceful landscapes.

⮕ Appalachian Trail

Hike scenic mountain ridges or admire breathtaking fall foliage along the route.

Appalachian Trail

© Justin/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Appalachian Trail?
    • The Appalachian Trail runs for over 2,000 miles, making it one of the longest and most scenic hiking trails in the world.
  • Can you hike a section of the Appalachian Trail from NYC?
    • Yes! You can easily enjoy a small section of the trail by driving out of NYC or taking the Metro-North from Grand Central.
  • Are there different sections of the Appalachian Trail near NYC?
    • Yes, you can choose from multiple sections of the trail, with some being more challenging than others.
  • Where can I find a map of the Appalachian Trail?
    • View a detailed map of the trail here.

⮕ Breakneck Ridge

Climb steep rocky paths or enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River.

Breakneck Ridge

© eileen10/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Breakneck Ridge?
    • Breakneck Ridge is a popular and challenging hiking destination near NYC, known for its steep climb and amazing views.
  • How can you get to Breakneck Ridge from NYC?
    • You can take the Metro-North train or drive about one hour north of the city to reach the trailhead.
  • How difficult is the Breakneck Ridge hike?
    • The hike features a steep ascent, so it's best suited for those with a moderate level of physical fitness.
    • Hikers should bring energy bars and be prepared for a challenging but rewarding climb.
  • How long is the Breakneck Ridge hike?
    • The full hike runs for about four miles in total.
  • What can hikers see from the top of Breakneck Ridge?
    • At the summit, hikers are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson Valley.
  • Where can I find a map of Breakneck Ridge?
    • View a detailed map of the hike here.

⮕ Ice Caves and Verkeerderkill Falls

Explore hidden icy caverns or see stunning cascading waterfalls.

Ice Caves and Verkeerderkill Falls

© Sergii Mostovyi/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Ice Caves and Verkeerderkill Falls Trail?
  • How long is the Ice Caves and Verkeerderkill Falls hike?
    • The trail runs for about seven miles and can take a few hours to complete.
  • What makes this trail unique?
    • The hike offers a fairy tale-like landscape, allowing hikers to squeeze through narrow ice caves and admire the unmatched beauty of Verkeerderkill Falls.
  • How can you get to the Ice Caves and Verkeerderkill Falls Trail from NYC?
    • You can reach the trail by driving or taking the Short Line bus from NYC to Ellenville, followed by a taxi to Sam's Point Preserve.
  • Where can I find a map of the trail?
    • View a detailed map of the hike here.

⮕ Anthony’s Nose

Walk along a rugged trail or admire sweeping views of the Hudson Valley.

Anthony’s Nose

© Nancy/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Anthony’s Nose?
    • Anthony’s Nose is a scenic hiking trail that is great for those with little hiking experience or those looking for a simple but spectacular hike with friends and family.
  • How can you get to Anthony’s Nose from NYC?
    • You can take the Metro-North to Manitou and then walk about a mile to the trailhead.
  • How long is the Anthony’s Nose hike?
    • The trail itself runs for around two and a half miles.
  • Is Anthony’s Nose suitable for beginners?
    • Yes, it is a beginner-friendly hike that offers stunning views while being relatively easy to complete.
  • Where can I find a map of Anthony’s Nose?
    • View a detailed map of the hike here.

⮕ Kazimiroff Nature Trail

Discover peaceful forested paths or spot diverse bird species.

Kazimiroff Nature Trail

© smuki/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is the Kazimiroff Nature Trail located?
  • Do you need to leave NYC to hike this trail?
    • No! The trail is located within New York City, making it an accessible and convenient hiking option.
  • What is the difficulty level of the Kazimiroff Nature Trail?
    • The trail is short and mostly flat, making it ideal for families and casual hikers.
  • What makes this trail special?
    • Despite being in the Bronx, the surrounding scenery makes it feel like it's a million miles away from the city streets and noise.
  • Where can I find a map of the Kazimiroff Nature Trail?
    • View a detailed map of the trail here.

⮕ Mount Beacon Park

Hike to historic ruins or enjoy a challenging workout with rewarding views.

Mount Beacon Park

© rmbarricarte/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is Mount Beacon Park located?
    • Mount Beacon Park is located in the Hudson Highlands, offering stunning views of the Hudson Valley.
  • How can you get to Mount Beacon Park from NYC?
    • You can take the Metro-North line to Beacon station, then enjoy a scenic walk up to the start of the trail.
  • How high is Mount Beacon?
    • Mount Beacon is the highest point in the Hudson Highlands, reaching a total elevation of 1,611 feet above sea level.
  • How long is the hike to the top of Mount Beacon?
    • The hike is only a mile long, making it a relatively short but rewarding adventure.
  • What can hikers see from the top of Mount Beacon?
    • At the summit, hikers are treated to breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley.
  • Where can I find a map of Mount Beacon Park?
    • View a detailed map of the park here.

⮕ Stairway to Heaven Trail Hiking Day Trip from NYC

Climb scenic boardwalks or admire blooming wildflowers in spring.

Stairway to Heaven Trail Hiking Day Trip from NYC

© TetyanaOhare/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Stairway to Heaven Trail?
    • The Stairway to Heaven Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike featuring a very steep section that makes you feel like you're climbing into the clouds.
  • Where is the Stairway to Heaven Trail located?
    • The trail is located about 50 miles from NYC, making it a great option for a day trip.
  • How can you get to the Stairway to Heaven Trail from NYC?
    • Visitors can drive to the trail or take the NJ Transit buses to Warwick and then make their way to the trailhead.
  • What makes this hike special?
    • The trail offers breathtaking views, making the steep climb well worth the effort.
  • Where can I find a map of the Stairway to Heaven Trail?
    • View a detailed map of the trail here.

Map:


Plan Your Trip