The best walks and hikes around Huntington Station

The West Hills Park Purple and Orange Loops trail offers a refreshing escape into a diverse and engaging landscape, feeling far more remote than its location suggests. As you traverse the route, you'll wander through quiet, mature forests, alternating between fragrant pine groves and sturdy hardwood trees, with the path often wide and well-marked. The rolling topography and dense canopy create an immersive experience, especially as you approach the historic Walt Whitman Trail leading towards Jaynes Hill.

This moderate hiking route covers 9.5 miles (15.3 km) with 562 feet (171 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 6 minutes to complete. It's accessible year-round, though you should be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions, particularly after heavy rains or during colder seasons. The trail is very dog-friendly, provided your furry friends are kept on a leash, making it a great option for a family outing.

What makes this trail stand out is its connection to Long Island's highest natural point, Jaynes Hill, and its surprisingly wild feel despite being close to local roads. The park sits on the Ronkonkoma Moraine, which explains its hilly nature and varied terrain. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer in warmer seasons, and a variety of birds like the Eastern Screech Owl and Red-tailed Hawk.

This easy segment of the Nassau/Suffolk Greenbelt Trail offers a refreshing 1.1 miles (1.7 km) of hiking, featuring 187 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain that can be completed in about 30 minutes. You'll wander through the varied terrain near Cold Spring Harbor State Park, experiencing gentle hills and wooded paths that provide a pleasant contrast to the flatter parts of Long Island. It's a perfect choice for a quick nature fix or a leisurely stroll, suitable for all skill levels.

Accessing this part of the Greenbelt Trail is straightforward, with parking typically available near Cold Spring Harbor State Park. While it's a short route, wearing comfortable shoes is advisable for the varied ground underfoot. Spring is a particularly lovely time to visit, as the mountain laurels add vibrant color to the landscape, enhancing your experience.

The Nassau/Suffolk Greenbelt Trail is a significant recreational resource, designated as a National Recreation Trail, preserving a vital green corridor amidst a densely populated suburban environment. It's notable for its ecological diversity, offering a chance to observe various flora and fauna, especially around the Cold Spring Harbor area. This trail connects multiple parks and preserves, providing a unique opportunity to explore Long Island's natural beauty.

The Nassau Suffolk Greenbelt Trail offers a surprisingly diverse hiking experience, even on its shorter sections. This particular 2.0-mile (3.1 km) route, located within Cold Spring Harbor State Park, takes you through a lovely forest with gentle terrain and 185 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this easy hike in about 52 minutes, enjoying views of the Inner Harbor and the varied flora, including mountain laurel in June.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking is available at Cold Spring Harbor State Park. The trail is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed companion along for this pleasant outing. It's a great option for a quick nature escape, especially if you're looking for family-friendly hikes or a peaceful walk without significant challenge.

Despite passing through populated areas, the Nassau Suffolk Greenbelt Trail is celebrated for preserving a narrow corridor of open land, connecting several parks and preserves. This specific section provides a glimpse into the trail's natural beauty and its importance as a preserved space. It's a wonderful way to experience Long Island's unique landscape, offering a quiet retreat from the suburban bustle.

The Walt Whitman Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through a diverse forest landscape that feels both ancient and inviting. You'll walk through sections of soft, sandy earth and mossy patches, surrounded by towering oak, maple, and beech trees. The route gently climbs and descends across the hilly Ronkonkonoma Moraine, leading you to Jayne's Hill, where you can enjoy expansive views over Broad Hollow and beyond.

This easy 2.7-mile (4.4 km) hike, with its modest 172 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete. The trail starts conveniently at Walt Whitman's birthplace, offering ample parking at West Hills County Park. It's a family-friendly and dog-friendly option, though you should be aware that some sections are shared with horses, which can mean uneven ground. Visiting in the cooler seasons often provides the clearest scenic views.

What truly sets this trail apart is its deep connection to American poet Walt Whitman, who drew inspiration from these very landscapes. At the summit of Jayne's Hill, Long Island's highest point, you'll find a boulder inscribed with a quote from his "Leaves of Grass." This trail is a fantastic way to experience a piece of literary history while enjoying a pleasant outdoor adventure, with options to connect to the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail for longer loop options.

The Uplands West Loop Trail offers a delightful journey through the varied ecosystems of the Uplands Farm Sanctuary, winding through native forest, open meadows, and areas of recovering farmland. You'll find yourself immersed in a peaceful environment, perfect for birdwatching or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of nature. The terrain is generally flat with little elevation change, making it a very accessible and pleasant walk.

Planning your visit to this easy 2.5-mile (4.1 km) hiking loop is straightforward, as it typically takes just over an hour to complete. The trail is located in Cold Spring Harbor, New York, and parking is usually available at the Uplands Farm Sanctuary trailhead. Since it's a short and gentle route, it's a great option for a spontaneous outing, though arriving earlier in the day can help avoid any potential crowds.

This trail is particularly notable for its connection to the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail, offering options for longer explorations if you wish to extend your hike beyond the loop. With only 112 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, it's an excellent choice for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a relaxing nature experience without a strenuous climb. The mix of forest and meadow provides a rich habitat for local wildlife, adding to the charm of this tranquil spot.