Posted in New York
May 12, 2017
12 Amazing New York Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love
Not all of us have the time or energy to take on the task of exploring New York’s full-day hikes. So for those of us who are looking for shorter adventures that still offer impressive views, unforgettable hikes like the twelve you’ll find below are perfect to explore. Giving you a variety of trails that have views of the Empire State’s tallest mountains and some that will provide you with waterfront sights, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Right on Long Island's North Shore, the park spans across roughly 70 acres of land. The park is made up of magical boardwalks and staircases and even a whimsical Labyrinth that features a yarn-bombed tree and art. Avalon has five different trails for visitors to check out, with the longest 2.2 miles long. To find out more information about this park and to see the trail maps, click here.
Just south of Owasco and Skaneateles Lakes in Cayuga County is one of our favorite state parks to explore. Fillmore Glen is another park that offers a handful of trails that all come in under 3 miles, but the most popular one to explore is the Gorge Trail where you'll have a view of the waterfalls that are hiding here. To find out more information about this park and to see the trail map, click here.
When it comes to exploring short but sweet trails, you won't be able to have a conversation without hearing Watkin Glen's Gorge Trail being brought up. Hike along the two-mile long trail and you'll have the chance to see 19 waterfalls, some of which you'll be able to walk behind! One of the most breathtaking destinations in our state, you can find out more information about this amazing state park if you click here.
Taking you up to the Adirondack Loj, Mount Jo is one of the most rewarding hikes you'll ever experience. Coming at just over 2-miles long, the hike is steep but gives you incredible views of our surrounding High Peaks and Heart Lake. To find out more information about this hike, click here.
One of the many beautiful places you'll find in the city of Ithaca, waterfalls, stone staircases and a lake can all be found at Buttermilk Falls State Park. Those who explore the 1.29-mile long Lake Treman Trail will be led through the forest to waterfront views of the lake. Or you can explore the well-liked .65-mile long Gorge Trail that brings you by waterfalls along Buttermilk Creek. To find out more information about this park and to see the trail map, click here.
Just an hour east of Rochester in Wayne County, Chimney Bluffs State Park sits along the shores of Lake Ontario. A place unlike any other in our state, the park has 1.2-mile long Bluff Trail that gives you spectacular views of the water and this unique natural wonder. To find out more about this park and to view the trail map, click here.
If you want to enjoy a hike that will promise you the opportunity of seeing New York's wildlife up close and personal, then it's time you head out to Seneca Falls. At the northern end of Cayuga Lake, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge has quite a few trails that are just over a mile long. The trails here will give you views of endangered species and a variety of wildlife that you won't find just anywhere. To find out more information, click here.
Another short hike in New York that's very rewarding, Shelving Rock Falls is a .8-mile long out and back trail that's an Adirondack favorite. The hike is one of the easiest ones you'll ever experience in this region and leads you to an over 50-foot tall waterfall that's beautiful to see all throughout the year. Bonus? Right near the trailhead for the waterfall you can also find the trailhead for Shelving Rock Mountain. Another easy hike to complete, the out and back trail is only 3.4 miles total! To find out more information about this hike, click here.
Less than a half-hour outside of Syracuse, this state park is home to some of New York's most unique bodies of water. The two lakes inside of the park don't experience any turnover, meaning that the top and bottom levels of the lakes never mix - making for one extremely clear body of water. The park has a variety of waterfront trails that are under 3-miles long, taking you through the woods and giving you a stunning view of the vibrant water. To find out more information about this park and to view the trail map, click here.
At the very southern end of our Adirondack Park is a relatively easy hike that just makes the cut with a length of 3-miles long. At times the trail can be a bit rocky, but once you reach the summit you'll be glad you made the trip! Adding an extra cherry on top, the summit also has a fire tower that will give you extended views of the Adirondacks. To find out more information about this hike, click here.
A 1-mile long out and back trail that ends once you reach one of New York's tallest waterfalls, Kaaterskill Falls a destination worthy of your bucket list. The trail starts off with a smaller waterfall, taking you along Kaaterskill Creek until you reach the towering natural wonder. Those looking to continue exploring can follow a staircase on the mountainside that leads you right to the very top of the waterfall. To find out more information about this trail, click here.
A roughly 1.5-mile long loop trail that gives you expansive views of the area from the top, Vroman's Nose is a popular hiking spot for those living in the Capital Region. Just under an hour away from Albany, the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. To find out more information about this hike, click here.
What’s your favorite half-day hike to take in the Empire State? For another quick and easy adventure, see if you’ve explored This Hike That Might Just Be The Most Beautiful In All Of New York!
