The 6 Best Hiking Trails Near NYC
Even though I grew up near the Smoky Mountains, I didn’t really discover how much I love hiking until I moved to the Pacific Northwest. It was probably one of those “you never see the touristy things in your own hometown” situation.
When I lived in Seattle, it seemed like I went hiking every other weekend. The trails were gorgeous and unlike anything I’d seen before.
Once I sold my car and moved to NYC, I initially put my love of hiking on hold. But after a few years of exploring via public transportation plus the pandemic keeping me closer to home, I realized there are some excellent trails near the city.
So if you, like me, want to get in more hikes this year, this list is a great place to start! Here are 6 of the best hiking trails near NYC + some fun add-on experiences to turn your hike into a full-blown day trip!
The 6 Best Hiking Trails Near NYC
Bear Mountain Loop Trail
Bear Mountain is one of the most popular hiking spots near NYC. This state park sits about 50 miles from the city and can be reached by car or public transportation. Simply take a Hudson Line Metro-North train to Peekskill. At this station, you’ll need to take a short Lyft to the trailhead.
Bear Mountain offers tons of trails, but a nice starting point is the 3.8 mile Bear Mountain Loop Trail. This trail features some challenging scrambles and rewarding water views.
Breakneck Loop Trail
The classic Breakneck Loop Trail is a challenging 3.2-mile loop in the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve. Follow the trail counterclockwise and be prepared for some steep scrambles. You’ll be rewarded with incredible views and a sense of accomplishment.
If you have a car and want to extend your day trip, consider visiting Beacon after your hike. This is one of my favorite Hudson Valley towns to explore. While you’re here, grab some coffee at Bank Square Coffeehouse, sit outside and eat tacos at Tito Santana or sip a cocktail at Denning’s Point Distillery.
Another option is to add a visit to Benmarl Winery to your day trip. This is about half an hour from the Breakneck Loop Trail and is a perfect spot to relax after your hike. During the warmer months, this winery offers outdoor tastings where you can sit, enjoy your wine and soak in sweeping views.
Harriman State Park
Harriman State Park is a huge protected area with some of the best hiking trails near NYC. There are trails for all types of hikers- including the moderate 3.8 mile Reeves Brook Loop Trail and the more challenging 7.1 mile Elk Pen Loop Trail.
You could combine this trip with another hike at Bear Mountain or a visit to Beacon. If you want to travel just a bit further and visit another Hudson Valley Winery (or two) consider adding Robibero Winery or Whitecliff Vineyard to your itinerary.
Mount Beacon Park Loop Trail
Yes, I’ve mentioned Beacon a few times in this post already. But it just makes for such a great day trip from NYC. In addition to the top-notch restaurants and art scene, you can reconnect with nature on the Mount Beacon Park Loop Trail.
There are a few hikes in Mount Beacon Park, but if you are looking for a workout, go for the Casino, Wilkinson Memorial and Fishkill Ridge Trail Loop. This 6.7-mile trail starts with a steep uphill climb that you will absolutely feel the next day. During the hike, you’ll pass the ruins of a historic incline railway station and the Beacon fire tower- which you can climb if you aren’t afraid of heights.
South Mountain Reservation
Venture just 20 miles west of Midtown Manhattan to reach the South Mountain Reservation. In addition to the mile-long Fairy Trail, this natural reserve features plenty of other paths for more experienced hikers.
After your time in the woods, use the rest of your day to explore New Jersey’s suburbs. The reservation is close to Maplewood, Millburn and South Orange. Each of these towns offers a cluster of local restaurants around their train stations.
North Woods- Central Park
I love escaping the city every now and then. But when that isn’t possible, I head to Central Park to do some hiking. The North Woods trail feels more like an upstate escape than you might expect. During your hike, you’ll even see a waterfall! Plus, after your hike, you can easily head to a coffee shop to refuel.
I hope you enjoyed this quick guide of the best hiking trails near NYC. Which trail are you most excited to explore? Also, please let me know about any trails that I still need to check out!
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