The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Governors Island National Monument
4.7
(555)
19,373
hikers
495
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Governors Island National Monument offer a unique urban escape with diverse landscapes. The island features man-made mounds known as "The Hills," providing varying elevations and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty. Extensive paved and unpaved trails wind through lush parkland, including forests, shrublands, and meadows. A perimeter loop encircles the island, offering continuous waterfront vistas.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Governors Island National Monument
- The most popular family friendly hiking…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
6.01km
01:32
20m
20m
Hike the easy 3.7-mile Governors Island Loop for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and historical sites.
5.0
(1)
35
hikers
7.80km
01:59
20m
20m
Explore the Brooklyn Bridge Park Greenway, an easy 4.8-mile urban hike offering iconic views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge.
Sign up for free
2
hikers
3.72km
00:57
10m
10m
Explore Lower Manhattan's history on this easy 2.3-mile walk, visiting Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial, and iconic landmarks.
28
hikers
5.41km
01:21
0m
0m
Enjoy an easy 3.4-mile hike along the Battery Park and Battery Park City Greenway Loop, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and Stat
4.8
(13)
962
hikers
7.26km
01:53
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
One of the most beautiful viewpoints in NY!
0
0
Great photo spot with a view of Manhattan!
2
0
You feel truly small, whether you're standing under one of the bridges or at the foot of one of Manhattan's skyscrapers. In contrast, Brooklyn has a more tranquil suburban feel.
0
0
I looked at both bridges from the ferry 😁
0
0
Trinity Churchyard is a historic public cemetery and garden in Lower Manhattan, New York City, adjacent to the first Trinity Church on Wall Street. It is one of the oldest cemeteries in America, older than the church itself, and contains gravestones dating back to the 1660s, including Richard Churcher's gravestone from 1681. The cemetery serves as the final resting place for many notable Americans, notably Alexander Hamilton and his wife, Eliza Schuyler Hamilton.
0
0
The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic suspension and cable-stayed bridge over the East River in New York City, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, and is a well-known landmark. It opened in 1883 and was the longest suspension bridge in the world upon completion. The bridge now supports five lanes of vehicles, a pedestrian walkway, and a bicycle lane and is one of the oldest steel-cable suspension bridges in the United States. ```
0
0
Wall Street is a street in Manhattan, New York, named after a historic wall and the center of U.S. finance. It is home to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), the world's largest stock exchange, and is home to numerous banks and financial institutions. The term "Wall Street" is colloquially used as a metonym for the U.S. stock market, the financial industry, and the financial markets as a whole.
0
0
Without a doubt, Wall Street is a must when visiting NYC...
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Governors Island National Monument?
Governors Island National Monument offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 460 routes available. More than 320 of these are rated as easy, making them perfect for family outings.
What makes Governors Island National Monument a great place for family hikes?
Governors Island is a unique urban oasis, easily accessible by ferry, offering diverse landscapes and panoramic views. It features extensive paved and unpaved trails, open green spaces, and specific attractions like 'The Hills' with gentle ascents and fun elements like Slide Hill, making it ideal for families with children of all ages.
Are the hiking trails on Governors Island suitable for strollers and young children?
Yes, many trails on Governors Island are well-suited for strollers and young children. The island features a network of paved paths, including a 2.2-mile perimeter loop, which are generally flat and easy to navigate. Areas like Hammock Grove and the Open Orchard also offer gentle, accessible paths.
What are some easy, family-friendly loop trails on Governors Island?
For a classic family-friendly loop, consider the Governors Island Loop. This easy 6 km (3.7 miles) route encircles the island, offering continuous scenic views and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace, perfect for families.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes on Governors Island?
The terrain on Governors Island is generally gentle. You'll find a mix of paved promenades, gravel paths, and some grassy areas. The most significant elevation changes are found on 'The Hills' in the southern part of the island, such as Outlook Hill, which rises 70 feet and offers rewarding views via a winding paved trail or a stone scramble.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can families explore on Governors Island?
Families can explore several unique features. 'The Hills' offer varying elevations and views, including Slide Hill for fun. You can also visit historic fortifications like Castle Williams and Fort Jay. Hammock Grove provides a shaded, natural environment for relaxation, and the Open Orchard is a unique public art project with fruit trees.
How can we get to Governors Island National Monument for hiking?
Governors Island is primarily accessed by ferry. Ferries depart from Manhattan (Battery Maritime Building) and Brooklyn (Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park and Atlantic Basin). It's a short, scenic ride, making it an easy trip for families.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments on Governors Island?
Yes, Governors Island offers various food and beverage options, especially during the peak season. You'll find a selection of vendors and cafes, particularly around the ferry landings and in popular recreational areas, providing convenient spots for families to refuel.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Governors Island National Monument?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty, the island's peaceful atmosphere, and its accessibility for all ages, making it a perfect escape from the city.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails on Governors Island?
No, dogs are generally not permitted on Governors Island, with the exception of service animals. This policy helps maintain the island's unique ecosystem and ensures a comfortable experience for all visitors.
What are some other easy walks near Governors Island if we want to explore more of the area?
If you're looking to explore more easy walks nearby, consider the Brooklyn Bridge Park Greenway, which offers beautiful waterfront views and is easily accessible from the Brooklyn ferry terminal. Another option is the Battery Park and Battery Park City Greenway Loop in Lower Manhattan, providing scenic urban walking.
Most popular routes in Governors Island National Monument
Most popular attractions in Governors Island National Monument
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
