Looking for some easy hikes in New York? How about strolling over wooden bridges, gaping at a peaceful lake, and listening to the sounds of rippling streams? In just 1.9 short miles, you’ll see unimaginable beauty at the Lake Minnewaska Loop Trail. One of the best hiking trails in New York will take you to a gorgeous waterfall in less than two miles.

Related Stories

This Tiered Waterfall And Swimming Hole In New York Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List

This Tiered Waterfall And Swimming Hole In New York Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List

These 6 Waterfall Swimming Holes In New York Are Perfect For A Summer Day

These 6 Waterfall Swimming Holes In New York Are Perfect For A Summer Day

This Hidden Swimming Hole With A Waterfall In New York Is A Stellar Summer Adventure

This Hidden Swimming Hole With A Waterfall In New York Is A Stellar Summer Adventure

Have you explored this hike in New York before? What are your favorite easy hikes in New York?

If you need more ideas on NY hiking trails, check out these 12 out-of-this-world hiking spots in New York.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Hiking New York

What are the best parks in New York?

Want to explore more NY hiking trails? Check out some of the best parks in New York:

  • Harriman State Park: This is the second-largest park in the state. Enjoy 200 miles of hiking trails throughout this 44,000-acre spot. You can also do a lot of water activity with 31 lakes and reservoirs.
  • Rockefeller State Park Preserve: Located in Pleasantville, this 1,775-acre park was formerly the private residence and property of William Rockefeller. Today, you can roam more than 50 miles of carriage roads as well as horseback ride and even fish.
  • Hudson Highlands State Park: This 8,000-acre park is located in Cold Spring. Among the many hiking trails, I highly recommend The Cornish Estate Trail, which takes you to the ruins of an early 20th-century mansion.

 

What are the best waterfall hikes in New York?

There is plenty more to see than just easy hikes in New York. Consider venturing to some of the best waterfall hikes in New York:

  • Taughannock Falls State Park: As the name would suggest, here, you can take in the 215-foot Taughannock Falls. The park is located in Trumansburg and you can access great views via the Gorge Trail.
  • Eternal Flames Falls: Located in Orchard Park, this is a truly unique waterfall as there is a real burning flame located inside it. Get there by taking the 1.5-mile trail.
  • Bash-Bish Falls: Head to Taconic State Park in Copake Falls for this 2.1-mile out-and-back trail. You’ll follow Bash Bish Brook, cross over into Massachusetts, and then come to the glorious 200-foot-tall waterfall.

 

What are the best family-friendly hikes in New York?

Bring the whole family with you on these family-friendly hikes in New York:

  • Pelton Pond: This 1.1-mile loop is located within the over 14,000-acre Clarence Fahnestock Park in Putnam Valley. It’s nice and flat and will provide visitors with the opportunity to see some fun wildlife along the way, such as beavers, geese, and ducks. The pond is about eight acres.
  • Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park: Located in Poughkeepsie, here, you can walk over a 1.28-mile 1888 railway bridge 212 feet over the Hudson River. Walk or bike to the other side in Highland or start from there and go to Poughkeepsie.

Explore New York