Five Lowkey Hikes In New York With Amazing Payoffs
We love cities, but sometimes city life can feel a little stifling, can’t it? The power of a scenic hike in a peaceful park has so much healing potential for those suffering from cabin fever. No matter where you are in the Empire State, there’s sure to be an opportunity for an adventurous hike in your region. There is an incredible network of parks for both tourists and locals alike to enjoy. We took a look at a few of our favorite hikes in New York that we think you need to check out as soon as possible. Here are just five of the best hikes in New York.
1. Gorge and Indian Trail at Watkins Glen State Park: 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Watkins Glen State Park, 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, USA
The Gorge and Indian Trail is an adventurous hiking path at Watkins Glen State Park, which is one of the most scenic parks in the state. Many consider it to be the most beautiful place in New York. The picturesque waterfalls and towering rock faces make this trail a must-see for all hiking enthusiasts. The Finger Lakes region is absolutely stunning, and this is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful hikes in the area.
2. Anthony's Nose: 94 S Mountain Pass, Garrison, NY 10524
Anthony's Nose Trailhead, 94 S Mountain Pass, Garrison, NY 10524, USA
The Anthony's Nose hike is a popular trail near Garrison in the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve. This beautiful state park has some of the best views in New York. The trail contains some incredible overlooks and connects to the Appalachian Trail near the Bear Mountain Bridge, one of our favorite landmarks in the state. The hike is rated difficult, so be prepared! You'll want to bring hiking gear, good shoes, and plenty of snacks for the trail.
3. Giant Ledge: Oliverea Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464
Giant Ledge Trailhead, Oliverea Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA
The views from Giant Ledge are as good as any you'll find in the Catskills. There's no lack of overlooks that will give you excellent views of the Hudson Valley. Hike all the way to Panther Mountain: it's a tough trek, but you'll be glad you did it. The sights from the summit are just about impossible to beat.
The Indian Ladder Trail is a fairly new addition to Thacher State Park. It's a great introduction to one of the most astounding land preserves in the region.
This easy half-mile trek is right in the heart of the Helderberg Mountain Range. Plus, it's a quick, easy drive from Albany. While you're at the park, make sure to check out Minelot Falls! It's one of the prettiest waterfalls in New York, and you can walk right behind it.
5. Wittenberg and Cornell Mountains Trail at Woodland Valley Campground: 1319 Woodland Valley Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464
Woodland Valley Campground, 1319 Woodland Valley Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA
This trail is 8.5 miles, so it is a bit of a trek! However, it's full of stunning views of the landscape. In the spring and summer, you'll see exquisite wildflowers. It's one of our favorite trails out of all the more difficult hikes in New York.
All these parks are among the state’s best. Some of the best hikes in New York may be a little more difficult than others, but we promise that they’re all worth checking out. Find one near you and start planning your next weekend adventure!
Do you already have a favorite trail in New York that you’d like to tell us about? Share your go-to trails in the comments!
Address: Anthony's Nose Trailhead, 94 S Mountain Pass, Garrison, NY 10524, USA
Address: Giant Ledge Trailhead, Oliverea Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA
Address: Woodland Valley Campground, 1319 Woodland Valley Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA
Address: John Boyd Thacher State Park, New Scotland, NY 12186, USA
Address: Watkins Glen State Park, 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes In New York
April 02, 2022
Lisa Sammons
What are some great waterfall hikes in New York?
Looking for waterfalls in New York? There are so many amazing ones it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few. The Kaaterskill Falls hike is one of the most incredible in the Empire State.
What are some bucket list trails in New York that everyone has to try?
If you’re only going to do five hikes in New York, Watkins Glen is one place you don’t want to miss. It has multiple waterfalls in a small area, and it’s one of the most beautiful places in the state.
What are some kid-friendly hikes in New York?
We’ve got plenty of lengthy hikes that will take much of the day, but if you’re looking for shorter, kid-friendly hikes in New York, there are plenty of those, too. We love the trail at Constitution Marsh. It’s only about a mile long, but has some gorgeous scenery.
Address: Anthony's Nose Trailhead, 94 S Mountain Pass, Garrison, NY 10524, USA
Address: Giant Ledge Trailhead, Oliverea Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA
Address: Woodland Valley Campground, 1319 Woodland Valley Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA
Address: John Boyd Thacher State Park, New Scotland, NY 12186, USA
Address: Watkins Glen State Park, 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, USA
