The best walks and hikes around East Northport

The Long Island Greenbelt Trail Loop via Old Dock Rd offers a delightful, accessible escape into nature, showcasing diverse terrain from dirt paths to boardwalks and sandy stretches. You'll enjoy scenic views of Sunken Meadow Creek and the Nissequogue River, with the chance to spot wildlife, especially during waterfowl migration. It's a truly engaging experience, perfect for a quick, refreshing outing.

This easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) hiking loop has a gentle 90 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain and takes around 40 minutes to complete. Located within Sunken Meadow State Park, be aware that parking fees may apply. For the most pleasant experience and vibrant scenery, plan your visit during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage along the river is stunning.

This particular loop is a segment of the much larger 32-mile Long Island Greenbelt Trail, a National Recreation Trail that spans from the Long Island Sound to the Great South Bay. Its accessibility and compressed natural beauty make the Old Dock Road section a popular choice for families and beginner hikers looking for a taste of Long Island's varied landscapes, including bluffs, beaches, and pine trees.

The Makamah Loop Trail in Fort Salonga offers a delightful and easy 2.4-mile (3.8 km) hike through a surprisingly varied landscape. You'll wander through undulating woodlands, past marshy areas, and alongside a valley with a main stream, all while enjoying views of the Jerome A. Ambro Memorial Wetlands Preserve. Expect a gentle 133 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect outing for a relaxed pace.

For your visit, parking is available at designated lots on Salonga Road or Makamah Road, but be aware that spaces can be limited, especially on busy days. Dogs are welcome to join you on the trail, provided they are kept on a leash. This well-marked route is suitable for most abilities and is a great option for a quick nature fix.

This preserve is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds, with 94 species recorded in the area, including owls and woodpeckers. The trail's diverse habitats, from dry woods to marshland, contribute to its ecological richness and make it a notable spot for nature observation within Suffolk County.

The Huntington Greenway Trail offers a delightful, easy escape into nature, winding through wooded paths that provide a pleasant journey for hikers and trail runners. You'll find the terrain mostly firm underfoot, though expect some narrow and winding sections with gentle hills, and you might even spot horses or homes peeking through the trees. This 3.5-mile (5.7 km) hike, with a modest 115 feet (35 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained by the Town of Huntington, and dogs are welcome year-round on a leash. While mostly clearly marked, pay attention at the intersection with the Meadow Lark Park (MLP) Trail to stay on course. Proper footwear is always a good idea, especially when leaves cover the paths in cooler months.

This trail is part of a broader initiative to connect existing trails and natural areas, aiming to minimize impact on natural resources. The system is promoted through an annually updated "Huntington Trails Guide" and features a distinctive logo representing its multi-use nature, depicting various outdoor activities. It's a testament to community effort, with trail direction posts installed by an Eagle Scout, ensuring a well-guided experience.

The Greenbelt Trail: Sunken Meadow to Smithtown Landing offers a diverse hiking experience, starting with very hilly and sandy bluffs near Sunken Meadow State Park that provide panoramic views of the Long Island Sound. As you progress, the trail transitions into pleasant hardwood groves, following the Nissequogue River, showcasing some of Long Island's finest lowland deciduous hardwoods. You'll encounter varied surfaces like soil, boardwalks, grass, and sand, making for an engaging journey through coastal and woodland ecosystems.

This moderate 5.7-mile (9.2 km) hike, with 242 feet (74 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 24 minutes. While generally considered accessible, the initial sections are quite hilly and sandy, offering a good workout. It's wise to carry a detailed map, as some parts, especially near residential areas, can be tricky to navigate. Parking is available at both Sunken Meadow State Park and Smithtown Landing Park.

This segment of the Greenbelt Trail is notable for its ecological diversity, connecting coastal bluffs with river ecosystems and mature woodlands. It provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and offers an immersive experience in Long Island's natural environments. The Kings Park Bluffs along the route are a highlight, providing impressive vistas that are a local favorite.