• 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.

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1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

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