The best city hikes and walks in New York
4.7
(2689)
52,291
hikers
812
hikes
Urban hiking trails in New York offer a diverse range of experiences, from waterfront paths to expansive city parks. The landscape features a mix of developed urban areas, green spaces, and historical routes. Hikers can explore a variety of terrains, including paved paths, gravel trails, and elevated walkways, often with views of the city skyline or natural waterways. The region provides accessible routes that connect urban centers with natural and historical points of interest.
Best urban hiking trails in New…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
5.0
(8)
1,078
hikers
3.34km
00:52
10m
20m
Embark on an easy hike across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, a 2.1-mile (3.3 km) route that offers unparalleled views of New York City. You will gain a gentle 38 feet…
4.6
(23)
350
hikers
10.4km
02:43
80m
80m
Experience the heart of New York City on the Central Park Loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 6.5 miles (10.4 km) with an elevation gain of 248 feet (76 metres).…
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4.6
(5)
542
hikers
3.40km
00:52
10m
10m
Imagine yourself hiking across the Brooklyn Bridge, an easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) urban path that offers sweeping views of the New York City skyline. You will gain a gentle 37…
12
hikers
15.1km
04:01
150m
170m
The Niagara Gorge Rim Trail offers a moderate hiking experience, stretching 9.4 miles (15.1 km) with an elevation gain of 505 feet (154 metres). You can expect to complete the…
10
hikers
10.5km
02:39
20m
20m
Hike the Hudson River Greenway for a moderate urban adventure, spanning 6.5 miles (10.5 km) with a gentle 66 feet (20 metres) of elevation gain. This route typically takes about…
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Tips from the Community
It's not the most prestigious university, but it's very beautiful.
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Horace Greeley was a publisher; his newspaper, the New York Tribune, was very influential. He was also a politician in the Republican party.
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In 2002, the City of New York founded the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation, or LMDC for short. This corporation was responsible for developing a new plan for the reconstruction of the World Trade Center. Shortly after the terrorist attacks, it was decided to redevelop this area. However, what it would look like was still unclear. Polls showed that some Americans wanted Ground Zero to be a memorial. Others advocated for the construction of new towers. Donald Trump presented his own concept. He wanted to build twin towers again, 30 meters higher than the old ones. This was quickly rejected, however. In 2002, the LMDC announced an architectural competition for the redevelopment of the WTC site. A total of 406 entries were received.[24] Some designs were criticized, even in German newspapers, for the new plans only envisaging smaller skyscrapers that were nowhere near as tall as the Twin Towers and thus not spectacular enough. In 2003, Daniel Libeskind was finally announced as the winner. He had also completed several construction projects in Germany. Libeskind, who immigrated to the USA from Poland, had little experience in building high-rise buildings, but his design met with widespread approval because he attempted to fulfill both desires for Ground Zero: a memorial and new towers. His concept called for leaving the sites where the World Trade Center towers had stood vacant and building a memorial with a museum next to them. He placed five office towers around the perimeter, each slightly taller than its neighbor. At the northeast corner, he placed One World Trade Center, the Freedom Tower. He also scored points with his concept of the new tower's height: 1,776 feet (541 meters). This refers to the year of the United States Declaration of Independence.[
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Chrysler Building Designed by architect William Van Alen and completed just a year before the Empire State Building, this iconic Art Deco tower wasn't always as prominent in the New York skyline as it is today. Commissioned by Walter Chrysler, owner of the eponymous automaker, it was the first skyscraper with a decorative, non-functional spire, which drew mixed reactions from architectural critics. Although the Empire State Building snatched the title of New York's tallest skyscraper after just 11 months, the Chrysler Building remains the world's tallest brick building with a steel structure.
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56 Leonard Street This residential tower in Tribeca, designed by Herzog & de Meuron and popularly known as the "Jenga Building" due to its irregularly stacked upper floors, debuted on the skyline in 2017. The striking 57-story skyscraper is the tallest in the district. Individual apartments are concealed within its rectangular volumes. This year, the final element of the design was installed at the base: a nearly six-meter-tall replica of Anish Kapoor's bean-shaped Cloud Gate sculpture. The original is located in Chicago.
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30 Hudson Yards Since the opening of the Hudson Yards project in 2019, its towers have become an integral part of the New York City skyline. The Kohn Pedersen Fox observation deck atop the supertall office building is visible from afar. With a total height of 395 meters and an observation deck at 335 meters, the glass skyscraper with its distinctive "duckbill" is a symbol of the exclusive neighborhood, whose second construction phase is about to begin.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in New York?
New York offers a vast network of urban hiking trails. You can explore over 790 routes, ranging from easy strolls through city parks to more challenging urban explorations. The komoot community has contributed to a diverse selection, ensuring there's a path for every preference.
What do hikers enjoy most about urban trails in New York?
The urban trails in New York are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.67 out of 5 stars from over 2,700 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique blend of natural beauty and iconic cityscapes, the accessibility of many routes, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems within the urban environment.
Are there easy urban hiking trails suitable for beginners in New York?
Yes, New York has a wide selection of easy urban hiking trails perfect for beginners. Over 570 routes are classified as easy, offering gentle paths and minimal elevation gain. A great option for a relaxed walk is the Brooklyn Bridge Walk, providing iconic views without strenuous effort.
Can I find circular urban walks in New York?
Absolutely. Many urban trails in New York are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular example is the Central Park Loop, which offers a comprehensive tour of the park's diverse landscapes and attractions.
Are urban hikes in New York accessible by public transport?
Many urban hiking trails in New York are highly accessible via public transport, especially within New York City. Routes like the Brooklyn Bridge Walk and the Central Park Loop are easily reached by subway or bus, making them convenient for city dwellers and visitors alike. Even trails slightly further afield, such as those in Harriman State Park or along the Old Croton Aqueduct, are often reachable by Metro-North trains.
Which urban trails offer the best views in New York?
For stunning urban views, consider trails that traverse iconic landmarks or waterfronts. The Brooklyn Bridge Walk offers unparalleled vistas of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. For river views, the Hudson River Greenway provides continuous scenic perspectives along the waterfront.
Are urban hikes in New York suitable for families with children?
Yes, many urban hikes in New York are family-friendly. Look for routes marked as 'easy' or 'moderate' with paved paths or gentle terrain. Parks like Central Park offer numerous kid-friendly sections and playgrounds. The Brooklyn Bridge Walk is also a popular choice for families, offering an exciting experience with manageable distances.
Are there dog-friendly urban hiking options in New York?
Many urban parks and trails in New York welcome dogs, though leash laws and specific restrictions may apply in certain areas. Always check local regulations before heading out. Generally, large parks like Central Park and Prospect Park have designated off-leash areas during specific hours, and many greenways are dog-friendly. The Hudson River Greenway is a great option for walking with your canine companion.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in New York?
Urban hiking in New York is enjoyable year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is great for early morning or late afternoon walks to avoid the heat, and winter offers crisp air and unique snowy cityscapes, especially along waterfront paths or in major parks.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can I see along urban trails in New York?
Urban trails in New York often blend cityscapes with surprising natural beauty and historical landmarks. You might encounter stunning viewpoints like the View of the Hudson River from Bear Mountain or the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower. Some routes even lead to unique geological formations such as the Ice Caves or historical sites like Claudius Smith's Den, offering a diverse range of sights.
Are there urban hiking trails in New York that feature waterfalls?
While less common directly within the densest urban centers, some urban-adjacent trails in New York do feature waterfalls. For instance, the Niagara Gorge Rim Trail, though a bit further afield, offers views of the powerful Niagara Falls. Within the broader New York region, areas like Watkins Glen State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park in the Finger Lakes region are renowned for their cascading waterfalls, though these are not strictly 'urban' hikes.
Where can I find parking for urban hikes in New York?
Parking for urban hikes in New York can vary greatly depending on the specific location. For trails within New York City, public parking garages or street parking (often metered) are options, though public transport is frequently more convenient. For trails in larger parks or slightly outside the immediate city, dedicated parking lots are usually available. Always check the specific trail's information or local parking regulations before you go.
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