These 13 Gorgeous Waterfront Trails In New York Are Perfect For A Summer Day
By Lea Monroe|Published July 22, 2016
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Lea Monroe
Author
Writer for Only In Your State. Scribbling about all things New York and Buffalo related while also keeping you updated on the latest travel news! Inquiries: Lmonroe@onlyinyourstate.com
New Yorkers, the time has come. Summer is in full effect and we’re more than ready to be out near the water! There’s certainly nothing like exploring any one of our trails, more specifically these 12 scenic hikes that are all under 5 miles round trip. But, what if we’re looking to take on a hike that offers more than just woodland views? With much of our state experiencing very hot weather this weekend, I couldn’t help but find myself daydreaming of being by peaceful and refreshing streams. Lucky for us, some of our most famous trails happen to be found right along the water, making for an unforgettable trail.
Lace up your shoes and get ready to explore! These 13 waterfront trails in New York are perfect for a summer day:
1. Peebles Island State Park - Waterford
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If you follow the 2-mile trail that brings you along the perimeter of the island, you'll be amazed at the incredible views you'll find. On a hot summer day you can enjoy a view of the water and a perfect breeze, while you forget about every problem in the world you ever had. This place is perfect! Another exciting reason to go? This state park is a popular place for fishing down by the water and also for kayaking!
To find out more about this island and all of the reasons it's so magical, click here!
When it comes to trails, the Finger Lakes is the place to be. From famous wine to nature trails that will both give you an unforgettable experience, there's nothing like dedicating a day to exploring this region. The small and charming village of Penn Yan not only has an amazing diner, but is also home to the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, an incredible scenic area to explore.
An amazing place for camping, inside of Green Lakes State Park you'll find a breathtaking lake filled with clear, green water. Incredible water that nearly gives you instantaneous flashbacks to every miniature golf course that you ever visited throughout your life, you'll love following the trails along the water here.
At this magical slice of paradise you'll find several trails to explore. To view the state park trails map, click here.
One of our most famous outdoor attractions, the waterfront trails at Letchworth State Park draw in a generous amount of visitors with its three main waterfalls. Nearly 30 trails can be found within this state park, the most popular being the roughly 7-mile Gorge Trail!
5. Saratoga Geyser Loop - Saratoga Springs
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All things considered, this is definitely one of the more unique waterfront trails on our list. Bringing you along Geyser Creek, this short and stunning trail is great for visitors of all ages, not only showcasing the calming creek but also waterfalls and three mineral springs!
To read more about the Geyser Island Spouter Loop Trail, click here!
No pets allowed, the beautiful trails of this Long Island nature spot are wonderful. With roughly 10 miles of lovely coastline, you'll enjoy the views of the ocean from here. The preserve features a variety of trails, click here to view the map!
Another one of New York's most popular outdoor attractions, this waterfront trail will give you a run for your money! While the popular Gorge Trail is only 2-miles long, you'll have to make your way up hundreds of steps.
A historic bridge that now serves as a jaw-dropping outdoor attraction, there's nothing like the views from up here. While many choose to just take an elevator ride up to this walkway, there's actually an entire Walkway Over The Hudson Loop that you can explore, a great place to take your bike! To view the trail maps, click here!
New York's tallest mountain, you'll find yourself almost always next to water on this hike! A trail that gives you bragging rights, you'll discover the Marcy Dam, streams and waterfalls all along this memorable hike!
Out in the Finger Lakes you'll find this quirky waterfront trail that features more than just picturesque sights. The sculpture trail features interesting works of art, and the best part? The trail is just under a mile long!
11. Shelving Rock Falls - Fort Ann
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This waterfront walk along the creek will bring you to someplace absolutely unforgettable! At the end of this .04 mile easy hike, you'll find yourself dropping your jaw at the sight of Shelving Rock Falls! If you don't quite get your water fix walking along the trail and exploring around the falls, you can continue on the trail until it brings you out to Log Bay!
To read more about this enchanting trail, click here!
A beautiful flat walk that keeps you surrounded by the ocean? Sign us up and give us more! One of the many fascinating trails you'll find out on Long Island, the Seal Haulout Trail is one of the most amazing places you can choose to explore! The trail is known for being the perfect place to spot seals in New York, an amazing event!
With not one, not two, but three gorgeous waterfalls in this corner of New York, you'll quickly see what all the fuss is about once you take a visit here. This county park is a local favorite to visit on a hot summer day because it serves as the perfect place to cool off!