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NatureHiking

If There Are Only 3 Family Hikes You Ever Take In New York, Follow These Easy Trails

Explore some of the best hiking trails in New York, from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, offering stunning views and unique natural features.

Published Aug 12, 2022

Written by 

Jessica Bohl

Family-friendly hikes in New York abound. But if you only have three easy hikes to include on your New York bucket list, the ones in this article should absolutely be on it. There is something for everyone on each of these trails. So whether you love the beach, a heavily wooded forest, or even fairy gardens, you will enjoy these trails. So keep reading for some happy family hiking!

1. The Wild Center - Tupper Lake

A winding path through a lush forest with trees and greenery on either side.
Allison Lahache/AllTrails

In Upstate New York, in Tupper Lake, you will find a truly special nature center and hike for your family. The Wild Center offers an easy .9-mile loop trail with informative signs and tons of beautiful nature to behold.

A wooden play structure with a tower and rope bridge, surrounded by trees and greenery under a blue sky.
Frank Leith/Google Local

But The Wild Center offers more than just a hike, making it the perfect day trip for families. There are indoor nature exhibits where you can learn more about the Adirondacks, the animals that live there, and climate solutions.

A treehouse observation deck surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage and mountains in the background.
The Wild Center/Facebook

Outdoors, there are stick sculptures, modern steel sculptures, and play areas. So it's a great place to go for a short hike, and then spend the day learning, exploring, and playing.

2. Sands Point Preserve Loop Trail - Middle Neck

A serene view of a calm lake under a clear blue sky, with a sandy shore and distant land on the horizon.
Andrew Mangibin/AllTrails

With 216 acres of woods, fields, and a beachfront along the sound, this 1.9-mile trail is perfect for families who love all nature has to offer.

A large stone mansion with intricate architecture, surrounded by greenery and colorful trees under a clear blue sky.
Jane Viau/AllTrails

There are two Great Gatsby-esque historical estates and even a Dino Trail with dinosaur footprints in the woods. So check out the Sands Point Preserve

today!

3. Tinker Nature Park Loop - Henrietta

A wooden walkway through a lush green forest with tall trees and sunlight filtering through the leaves.
Kate Konz/Google Local

This easy 1.1-mile loop trail is perfect for families with small children. The trail has hands-on boxes along the way where you can examine and feel animal fur, antlers, and even more wonderful things from nature.

A tree with a carved heart shape, painted blue, surrounded by green foliage in a forest setting.
Mark Peterson/Google Local

At the end of the trail, there is a playground for the kiddos. Be sure to visit the Tinker Nature Park Welcome Center with live turtles and snakes. And keep your eyes out for the fairy doors and houses along the trail!

Have you tried any of these three family-friendly hikes in New York? If not, get out your calendar and find a day for the whole family to enjoy these amazing trails.

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