The best walks and hikes in Suffolk County

Embark on the Mashomack Red, Yellow, Green and Jone C. Coles Loop for a moderate hike that spans 5.5 miles (8.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 157 feet (48 metres). You can expect to complete this diverse route in about 2 hours and 18 minutes. As you hike, you will move through dense forests, open meadows, and past tranquil ponds, offering a varied and engaging outdoor experience.

Before you head out, remember that the Mashomack Preserve is managed by The Nature Conservancy, so it is wise to check for any specific visitor guidelines or seasonal hours. Parking is generally available right at the preserve entrance, making access straightforward. Always plan your visit to ensure a smooth and enjoyable time on the trails.

This loop is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of Shelter Island, taking you along sections like the barrier-free Jone C. Coles Memorial Trail, which features a boardwalk. You will also pass Sanctuary Pond, a known habitat for various birds and turtles, adding to the preserve's rich biodiversity. It is a great opportunity to connect with nature and observe local wildlife.

Explore the Bayard Cutting Arboretum Loop, an easy hiking route that offers picturesque and varied scenery. As you walk, you will wind through diverse botanical collections, including impressive conifers and ancient oak trees. Keep an eye out for distinctive bald cypress trees with their "knees" near the water and watch for birds, ducks, and even osprey nests along the Connetquot River. This pleasant loop covers 2.2 miles (3.6 km) with a gentle 38 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 54 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, you will find that the arboretum provides both paved paths and dirt trails. Many of the paths near the historic Manor House are wheelchair accessible, making it a welcoming destination for many. Parking is generally available, ensuring straightforward access to the area. Be aware that some sections along the Connetquot River can be gravelly or bumpy, and you might encounter puddles after rain.

The Bayard Cutting Arboretum Loop is a great option if you are looking for family-friendly trails within the 691 acres of the arboretum. The trail's natural features make it a notable spot for enjoying the outdoors in the region. It offers a quick escape into nature, allowing you to experience a rich variety of plant life and wildlife along the river.

Explore the Mashomack Red Trail, an easy hiking route that guides you through a diverse landscape of freshwater marshes, tidal creeks, and serene oak forests. This pleasant path offers intimate views of natural surroundings, including Nicoll's Creek, making it a relaxing outdoor experience. You can complete the 1.7 miles (2.8 km) journey, with its gentle 46 feet (14 metres) elevation gain, in approximately 43 minutes.

When planning your visit, remember that the Mashomack Preserve is generally open from dawn to dusk, seven days a week. However, be aware that during January, the trails are only accessible on weekends. Dogs are not permitted anywhere within the preserve, so leave your furry friends at home. You can also enhance your hike by utilizing a free audio guide available on your mobile device.

Managed by The Nature Conservancy, the Mashomack Preserve is a significant natural area known for its rich biodiversity. As you hike, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife, which includes wild turkeys and over 200 species of birds. This makes the trail an excellent spot for nature observation and a unique feature that sets it apart in the region.

Embark on the Home Trail for an easy hike through a natural, wooded environment, perfect for a relaxed outing. This route spans 4.8 miles (7.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 41 feet (13 metres), making it accessible for most. You can expect to complete this pleasant journey in approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the unpaved path as you go. Keep an eye out for the tranquil waters of Belmont Lake and Southards Pond, and the view of the waterfall at the Belmont Lake outlet.

Planning your visit to the Home Trail is straightforward, as it's located within Belmont Lake State Park. Parking is generally available at the park, providing a convenient starting point for your adventure. This easy route is an excellent option for family-friendly hikes, offering a peaceful escape without requiring extensive preparation. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the quiet natural surroundings.

The Home Trail offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature in a local state park setting. It's designed for those seeking a gentle introduction to hiking or a leisurely stroll amidst trees and water features. The trail's easy difficulty and minimal elevation make it a standout choice for beginners or anyone looking for a refreshing outdoor experience without a strenuous challenge. It provides a lovely glimpse into the natural beauty of the area, making it a notable option for a quick escape.

Embark on an easy hike along the McAllister County Park Loop, a 2.8-mile (4.5 km) route that guides you through a diverse landscape. You will experience dense hardwood forests transitioning into open salt marshes, offering a refreshing change of scenery. With a gentle elevation gain of just 96 feet (29 metres), this loop is accessible for most hikers and typically takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete at a steady pace.

When planning your visit, be aware that parking at McAllister County Park is very limited; ensure you park only in designated areas to avoid receiving a ticket. Finding public access points can also be challenging due to minimal signage, so it is wise to plan your route carefully before you arrive. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to improve your chances of securing a parking spot.

As you hike, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, especially various bird species like herons and ospreys that frequent the wetlands. The trail eventually leads you to the coastline, where you can enjoy serene views of the Long Island Sound. Explore the impressive sand dunes, particularly around Pirate's Cove, which offers expansive panoramic vistas of the water and surrounding natural beauty.

Embark on an easy hike along the Terrell River Trail, a delightful 2.8-mile (4.5 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of just 35 feet (11 metres) as you move through a diverse landscape. The trail winds through shaded maritime forests filled with pitch pines and oaks, then opens up into grassy wetlands. You can enjoy picturesque views of the Terrell River as it flows towards Moriches Bay, offering a serene outdoor experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail is generally easy to follow, with wide and well-beaten paths. Some sections can be sandy, while others might become muddy, especially near pipe springs, so choose your footwear accordingly. There are no restrooms or water sources available, so remember to bring everything you need for your hike. Always practice a strict "carry in, carry out" policy for all trash to preserve the natural beauty of the area.

This trail offers more than just a walk through the woods; it provides unique access to a tidal estuary environment. As you hike, you will gain open vistas of the Great South Bay, and you can even reach beach access points. From these points, you can enjoy views of the Fire Island National Seashore, making the Terrell River Trail a distinctive option for exploring the coastal ecosystem.

Embark on an easy hike along the Cedar Beach Trail, a peaceful route that winds through a maritime forest. You will cover 1.0 miles (1.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 99 feet (30 metres), making it a perfect quick escape that takes about 25 minutes. As you walk, keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and various bird species among the diverse flora. The trail offers scenic views of the shoreline and leads directly to a fishing pier, providing a tranquil spot to pause and enjoy the water.

Planning your visit to the Cedar Beach Trail is straightforward. The route is well-maintained and paved, ensuring accessibility for most visitors. You will find benches conveniently placed along the path, offering spots to rest and take in your surroundings. While the trail is generally easy, remember to be mindful of potential ticks, especially if you venture off the main path.

This trail is located within Cordwood Landing County Park, offering a chance to immerse yourself in a unique natural setting. The maritime forest environment supports a rich diversity of plant life and provides a habitat for the wildlife you might encounter. The fishing pier at the end of the trail is a notable feature, allowing you to extend your visit with some relaxation by the water.

Embark on the West Hills Park Purple and Orange Loops, a moderate hike covering 9.5 miles (15.3 km) with an elevation gain of 562 feet (171 metres). This route typically takes around 4 hours and 6 minutes to complete. You will wind through mature forests of pine and hardwood trees, offering a surprisingly remote feel. Keep an eye out for diverse flora like wild Mountain Laurel and Moccasin Flower, and you might spot deer or red foxes. A highlight is reaching Jayne's Hill, Long Island's highest natural point, marked by a stone. After the leaves fall, you might even catch distant views of Orient Point or Connecticut from the highest points.

When planning your visit, be aware that trail conditions can vary significantly. Expect muddy or boggy sections after heavy rains, and be prepared for icy patches during colder months. The park offers convenient amenities such as a dog park and picnic areas, making it suitable for a full day out. Parking information is generally available at the park entrance, so check signs upon arrival.

This interconnected circuit provides a comprehensive hiking experience for exploring Long Island's natural beauty. The route's journey through mature pine and hardwood forests gives it a unique character within the region. Reaching Jayne's Hill offers a notable achievement, marking the highest natural point on Long Island. It is a great destination for those seeking a substantial hike with varied scenery and a sense of remoteness.

Embark on an easy hike along the Nassau/Suffolk Greenbelt Trail, a short but engaging route within Cold Spring Harbor State Park. This 1.1-mile (1.7 km) path guides you through a mixed hardwood forest, where you can spot impressive 3-foot diameter oak trees. Despite its easy rating, you'll encounter varied terrain and some gentle inclines, gaining 187 feet (57 metres) in elevation. It's a perfect quick escape, taking only about 30 minutes to complete, offering a refreshing outdoor experience. You'll feel immersed in the natural surroundings of the Harbor Hill Moraine.

To begin your hike, head to the Cold Spring Harbor State Park trailhead, where convenient parking is available. This serves as the direct starting point for the Nassau/Suffolk Greenbelt Trail. If you plan to bring your canine companion, dogs are welcome on the path, but remember to keep them on a leash throughout your visit. Always check local conditions before you go to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

This segment of the Greenbelt Trail is characteristic of the Harbor Hill Moraine, a significant geological feature formed by glaciers. The mixed hardwood forest you traverse is typical of this unique landscape. It provides a quick and accessible way to experience the natural beauty of the region, making it a notable option for those seeking a short outdoor adventure near Cold Spring Harbor.