The best walks and hikes in New York
4.7
(2690)
52,233
hikers
3,761
hikes
Hiking in New York offers diverse landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains to the glacial lakes of the Finger Lakes region. The state features extensive forests, deep gorges carved by ancient waterways, and a variety of natural features suitable for all hiking abilities. Urban green spaces within New York City also provide accessible trails.
Best hiking trails in New York
- The most popular hiking route is Central Park Loop, a 6.5 miles (10.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 43 minutes to complete, offering an urban escape through lush parkland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Brooklyn Bridge Walk, an easy 2.1 miles (3.3 km) path, providing iconic city views and a waterfront experience.
- Local hikers also love the Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail, a 14.2 miles (22.8 km) trail leading through mountain terrain, often completed in about 8 hours 23 minutes.
- Hiking in New York is defined by majestic mountains, deep gorges, diverse forests, and glacial lakes. The extensive network of trails offers options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in New York are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 2,700 reviews. More than 53,000 hikers have used komoot to explore New York's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
5.0
(8)
1,078
hikers
3.34km
00:52
10m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(12)
199
hikers
7.18km
02:45
340m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Sign up for free
5.0
(5)
172
hikers
4.92km
01:20
60m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
120
hikers
22.8km
08:23
990m
1,000m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(7)
109
hikers
7.44km
02:10
160m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(9)
122
hikers
3.53km
00:58
40m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
103
hikers
6.02km
01:34
30m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
78
hikers
10.8km
03:10
330m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(23)
350
hikers
10.4km
02:43
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
66
hikers
5.86km
01:49
230m
230m
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
Other adventures in New York
Tips from the Community
It is significantly better to cycle on this side of the Hudson, as you can also see from the path that runs directly along the Hudson.
0
0
It's not the most prestigious university, but it's very beautiful.
0
0
Horace Greeley was a publisher; his newspaper, the New York Tribune, was very influential. He was also a politician in the Republican party.
0
0
Minnewaska State Park Preserve spans over 22,000 acres on the Shawangunk Ridge in Ulster County, New York. Just west of Route 299, it offers dramatic views of the Catskill Mountains. https://www.ezpass-ri.com
0
0
What a beautiful description! You can perfectly picture this lake surrounded by cliffs and trees, offering a peaceful and natural atmosphere. The idea of a refreshing swim after a long summer hike makes you want to dive right in. https://www.ez-passnc.com
0
0
The monument was a gift from Yugoslavia to the United States in 1976 and depicts Tesla reading his notes. It commemorates his design of the first hydroelectric power plant at Niagara Falls using his alternating current (AC) system.
1
0
The American Falls are the second-largest of the three falls, separated from the much larger Horseshoe Falls by Goat Island. The third, smaller waterfall is the Bridal Veil Falls, which is next to the American Falls and separated by Luna Island.
1
0
More Information
FAQs about hike in New York
- What are some easy hikes for beginners in New York?
New York offers many accessible trails suitable for beginners. A great option is the Brooklyn Bridge via Manhattan — New York City route, an easy 3.40 km walk (about 52 minutes) offering iconic city views. There are over 1,400 easy hikes in the region overall, so you'll find plenty to explore. - Are there many moderate hiking options in New York?
Absolutely! New York boasts over 950 moderate hikes. A popular choice is the West Drive & East Drive loop — Central Park, which is 10.4 km long and takes about 2 hours 43 minutes. It's a fantastic way to experience both nature and urban landscapes. - Where can I find more challenging hikes in New York?
For hikers seeking a more strenuous experience, New York has over 230 difficult hikes. Consider the Cascade Mountain & Porter Mountain — Adirondack Park trail, a moderate 9.04 km route (about 4 hours 10 minutes) with significant elevation changes, providing a good challenge. - Are there dog-friendly hiking trails in New York?
Many trails in New York are dog-friendly, especially in larger parks and wilderness areas, but always check specific park regulations before heading out. Central Park, for example, allows dogs on leash in most areas. - What are some good family-friendly hikes in New York?
The Brooklyn Bridge via Manhattan — New York City route is an excellent choice for families, offering a relatively flat and engaging urban walk suitable for all ages. Many state parks also offer shorter, well-maintained paths perfect for family outings. - Which hikes in New York offer the best scenic views?
For breathtaking scenery, trails within the Adirondack Park, such as the Cascade Mountain & Porter Mountain route, provide stunning mountain vistas. Urban hikes like the West Drive & East Drive loop — Central Park offer iconic skyline and park views. - What is the best time of year to go hiking in New York?
Spring (late April to early June) offers wildflowers and pleasant temperatures. Summer (June to August) is popular but can be warm; aim for early mornings. Autumn (September to October) is spectacular with fall foliage. Winter hiking is possible in some areas, especially lower elevations, but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice. - Can I find hikes with waterfalls in New York?
Yes, New York is known for its beautiful waterfalls! You can find dedicated guides for waterfall hikes in New York, often featuring stunning cascades within state parks like Robert H. Treman State Park (e.g., Lucifer Falls & Enfield Falls loop). - Are there hiking trails accessible from New York City?
Absolutely. Iconic city hikes like the West Drive & East Drive loop — Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge via Manhattan — New York City are easily accessible by public transport or walking from many parts of the city, offering unique urban and waterside hiking experiences. - What kind of facilities can I expect on hiking trails in New York?
Facilities vary greatly by location. Popular city parks like Central Park often have restrooms, water fountains, and food vendors. State parks and wilderness areas may have restrooms and picnic areas near trailheads, but remote trails generally have no facilities, so plan to be self-sufficient with water and supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in New York?
New York offers a vast network of hiking trails. On komoot, you'll find over 2,600 routes, catering to all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents.
What do other hikers enjoy most about trails in New York?
The komoot community highly rates New York's trails, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 2,500 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from urban green spaces to majestic mountain ascents, and the well-maintained paths that offer stunning natural beauty.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in New York?
Yes, New York has numerous easy trails perfect for beginners and families. Over 1,400 easy routes are available on komoot. For an accessible urban escape, consider the Brooklyn Bridge via Manhattan — New York City route, offering iconic city views with minimal elevation.
Where can I find trails with waterfalls in New York?
New York is rich in impressive waterfalls. The Finger Lakes Region is particularly known for its gorges and cascades, with highlights like Letchworth State Park and Watkins Glen State Park. You can also explore the Lucifer Falls & Enfield Falls loop in Robert H. Treman State Park for a beautiful waterfall experience.
Are there any circular hiking routes in New York?
Yes, many trails in New York are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the Bear Mountain Loop in Bear Mountain State Park or the Bull Hill Loop in Hudson Highlands State Park.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks to see while hiking in New York?
Beyond the trails themselves, New York offers stunning natural attractions. You can explore the dramatic gorges of Letchworth State Park, often called the 'Grand Canyon of the East,' or the unique geological formations at Chimney Bluffs State Park. For historical landmarks, consider visiting Belvedere Castle in Central Park or The Cloisters.
Can I hike with my dog on trails in New York?
Many trails in New York are dog-friendly, but regulations vary by park and specific trail. It's always best to check the local park rules before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in most state parks and forests, but some protected areas or specific trails might have restrictions.
Are there hiking opportunities accessible by public transport from New York City?
Yes, several excellent hiking areas are accessible via public transport from NYC. The Hudson Valley, including parks like Bear Mountain State Park and Hudson Highlands State Park, can often be reached by Metro-North Railroad. Even within the city, parks like Staten Island's Greenbelt or Inwood Hill Park offer extensive trails.
What is the best time of year to hike in New York?
The best time to hike in New York largely depends on the region and your preferences. Spring offers blooming wildflowers, while autumn provides spectacular fall foliage, especially in the Adirondacks and Catskills. Summer is ideal for higher elevations and water activities, and even winter offers unique snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities in many areas.
Are there any challenging mountain hikes in New York?
Absolutely. New York is home to majestic mountains, particularly in the Adirondack and Catskill ranges. Trails like Cascade Mountain & Porter Mountain in Adirondack Park offer significant elevation gain and stunning views. The Breakneck Ridge Trail loop is another challenging option known for its scrambles and rewarding vistas.
Where can I find trails with panoramic views in New York?
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the higher peaks. Overlook Mountain in the Catskills, accessible via the Overlook Mountain trail, offers not only scenic trails but also intriguing ruins. Whiteface Mountain in the Adirondacks also provides expansive vistas, as do many trails in the Hudson Highlands.
Are there any long-distance or multi-day hiking options in New York?
While this guide focuses on day hikes, New York offers extensive networks for longer treks. Sections of the Appalachian Trail wind through the Hudson Valley, and the vast Adirondack Park features over 2,000 miles of trails, including routes that can be combined for multi-day backpacking adventures.
Most popular routes in New York
Most popular attractions in New York
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Hikes throughout New York below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
