When wilderness calls, there’s no need to travel far—New York City’s doorstep opens to a world of forests, river views, rocky peaks, and peaceful escapes. Step beyond the concrete jungle and into nature’s playground, where the best hikes near NYC offer a refreshing contrast to city life. Think secret waterfalls, hawk-filled skies, and scenic overlooks that once inspired the Hudson River School’s greatest artists.
These hiking trails near NYC are more than just a workout—they’re a chance to unplug, breathe deeply, and reconnect with something real. With easy access via train or car, your next great escape is closer than you think. Whether you’re chasing panoramic views or serene woodland paths, these local adventures turn ordinary weekends into unforgettable mini getaways. Below, you’ll find a curated list of unforgettable trails and nearby stays, perfect for a day hike or a full-on nature retreat. Lace up those boots—it’s time to roam.
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1. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
How to get there: The Q53-SBS drops off riders directly at Cross Bay Blvd/Wildlife Refuge. Alternatively, take the Rockaway-bound A train to Broad Channel Station and walk about 18 minutes to the Refuge Visitor Center.
Difficulty: Easy
If you’ve ever found yourself mesmerized by the lush ecosystems in a David Attenborough documentary but worry about trekking into the wilderness yourself, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is your perfect entry into hiking around NYC. This expansive 9,000-acre sanctuary of salt marshes and wetlands is home to over 325 species of birds.
It’s one of the most accessible and peaceful hiking trails near NYC, ideal for beginners or those who simply want a relaxing nature walk. The West Pond Trail, North Garden Trail, and South Garden Trail form a loop of about 1.8 miles, taking roughly an hour to complete. The trail is wide, flat, and made of gravel—great for birdwatchers hoping to catch a glimpse of ospreys without breaking a sweat.
Where to stay: Just a 10-minute walk from the A train and offering sweeping views of Manhattan, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge features a stunning rooftop pool and a farm-to-table restaurant. It’s a luxurious home base for cross-borough hiking adventures.
2. Marshlands Conservancy
How to get there: From Grand Central, ride the New Haven line towards Stamford and get off at Harrison. The conservancy is about a 30-minute walk from the station.
Difficulty: Easy
When life gets noisy, a quiet salt marsh can be just what you need. Rye’s Marshlands Conservancy is one of the most tranquil hiking trails near NYC, giving nature lovers a glimpse into a thriving ecosystem just outside the city. With three miles of trail open from dawn to dusk, visitors can wander among tidal wetlands, meadows, and hardwood forests.
Wildlife photographers and birders alike will enjoy the chance to spot minks, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and otters. The peaceful, watery landscapes feel like something out of Thoreau’s notebooks—no wonder this spot is considered one of the best hikes near NYC for reflection and renewal. Add in a visit to the nearby Jay Estate, once home to Founding Father John Jay, for a meaningful touch of American history.
Where to stay: Only a 15-minute drive from the trails, Sonesta White Plains Downtown offers a family-friendly base to explore both the conservancy and nearby attractions like Playland Amusement Park and Boundless Adventures.
3. Inwood Hill Park
How to get there: The uptown A train stops directly at Inwood-207 St., or you can take the uptown 1 train to 215 St., which is a short walk away.
Difficulty: Easy
No need to leave the five boroughs to feel like you’ve stepped into a wilderness preserve. Inwood Hill Park is the northernmost tip of Manhattan and home to some of the oldest natural landscapes in the city. Glacial valleys, hardwood forests, and salt marshes form the backdrop for one of the most unique hiking trails near NYC.
Urban Park Rangers began reintroducing bald eagles here in 2002, and their silhouettes now grace the skies above tulip poplars, maples, and cottonwoods. This trail isn’t just about nature—it’s also about community. The park includes barbecuing areas, dog runs, playgrounds, and athletic fields, making it one of the best hikes near NYC for families or groups seeking both serenity and city-based convenience.
Where to stay: The Arthouse Hotel on the Upper West Side offers an eclectic, artsy vibe with quick subway access to both Inwood Hill Park and cultural landmarks like Lincoln Center and Central Park.
4. Arden Point and Glenclyffe
How to get there: From Grand Central, ride the Hudson line towards Poughkeepsie to the Garrison station, which drops you footsteps from the trail.
Difficulty: Easy
The Hudson River has never felt more majestic than from the tree-lined paths of Arden Point and Glenclyffe. Preserved thanks to the Open Space Institute, this stunning 100-acre slice of peninsular land offers a peaceful, accessible hiking experience with spectacular views and rich historical roots.
The 3.7-mile loop is a top pick among the best hikes near NYC for its combination of riverside beauty and shaded forest trails, making it a strong contender for your go-to summer trek. The sign for “Arden Point–Hudson Highlands State Park” is visible right as you step off the train at Garrison. It’s also a place with a bit of lore—Benedict Arnold is believed to have passed through Glenclyffe on his flight to the British during the Revolutionary War.
Where to stay: Located just 20 minutes from the trail, a light-filled Airbnb in the heart of Beacon makes the perfect weekend base, blending comfort and charm with Hudson Valley flair.
5. Blue Mountain Reservation Loop
How to get there: From Grand Central, take the Hudson line to Peekskill. Then walk to the Bee-Line Bus’s Washington Street station at Hudson Avenue, and ride to Washington Street at Welcher Avenue. From there, it’s just an eight-minute walk to the loop.
Difficulty: Easy
For those setting aside a full day to disappear into the woods, Blue Mountain Reservation Loop offers one of the most rewarding hiking trails near NYC. This three- to four-hour adventure features sweeping Hudson River views, a dedicated trail lodge, a bathhouse, and two historically designated comfort stations that punctuate the route.
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It’s a serene and immersive experience that draws both seasoned hikers and casual walkers alike. Afterward, wind down at River Outpost Brewing Company—only a seven-minute drive away—for craft beer and top-tier pub fare with views right on the water. With such a blend of scenic beauty and culinary reward, it’s no wonder this is ranked among the best hikes near NYC for a full-day nature fix.
Where to stay: The Westin Grand Central puts you in the center of Manhattan, just steps from Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building—ideal for a seamless transition between nature and city.
6. Verkeerder Kill Falls Trailhead
How to get there: Located in Cragsmoor, New York, this trailhead is about a two-hour drive from the city.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Verkeerder Kill Falls Trailhead is a must-visit when you’re craving adventure and looking to stay cool during the hotter months. The first showstopper is the ice caves—narrow, vertical quartz formations that offer a completely unique experience compared to the limestone caves you might expect. These hidden crevices are hugged tightly by hikers as they journey through the shaded pathways. Step out of the cool darkness and you’re greeted by the stunning spray of Verkeerderkill Falls.
If you’re up for more, continue to Sam’s Point, the highest elevation in the Shawangunk Mountains, where the views stretch endlessly across the valley. It’s one of the most dramatic and rewarding hiking trails near NYC, offering a triple-feature of unique geology, waterfalls, and ridgeline views. A bit more demanding than other trails, this one ranks among the best hikes near NYC for those seeking a moderately challenging trek with huge visual payoff.
Where to stay: Honors Haven Resort & Spa is your perfect escape post-hike, with a full-service spa and pristine gardens designed for ultimate relaxation.
7. High Rock Park, Staten Island
How to get there: From Lower Manhattan, multiple Staten Island bus lines drop near High Rock (90 mins avg). Or drive 40 minutes from Lower Manhattan.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
This Staten Island gem is often called “one of the most tranquil places in New York City.” High Rock Park feels like stepping into a storybook, with wooded trails, quiet ponds, and fields dotted with wild blueberries. It features six main trails and is ideal for spotting wood ducks, warblers, and great blue herons.
For a mild climb, head up Mt. Moses, a 260-foot-high hill offering peaceful, leafy views. If you’re searching for hiking around NYC with a remote, meditative feel, this park delivers. Though lesser-known, it ranks among the best hikes near NYC for nature lovers seeking solitude, birdwatching, and scenic woodland strolls.
Where to stay: For laid-back luxury, book The Greenwich Hotel in Lower Manhattan. Co-owned by Robert De Niro, it offers privacy and style—a perfect end to your Staten Island hiking retreat.
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8. Stairway to Heaven Trail
How to get there: Drive 90 minutes from Midtown to Wawayanda State Park, NJ.
Difficulty: Moderate
Stairway to Heaven feels like a dream—rolling meadows, a rustic suspension bridge, and sweeping farmland beneath a pastel sunset. While it’s not the most accessible trail on the list, the natural beauty is unmatched. The full hike covers 7.5 miles and requires moderate stamina, making it a rewarding pick among the best hikes near NYC.
For a lighter experience, opt for the 2-mile abridged version, perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the scenery without a major workout. Sunset hikers will especially appreciate the glowing views. Whether you’re chasing wildflowers or a challenging stretch, this trail offers visual and physical payoff worth the effort.
Where to stay: Alpine Haus Bed and Breakfast Inn, near local wineries, blends country charm with cozy luxuries like a gas fireplace and hot tub—perfect for a restful night after your hike.
9. The New York Leg of the Appalachian Trail
How to get there: Take the Metro-North to Pawling Station (approx. 2 hours).
Difficulty: Varies by section
A nearly 90-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail winds through New York, offering varied terrain ideal for hiking around NYC. This legendary trail lets you choose your adventure—gentle wooded strolls or steep ridge climbs are both available, depending on your path. Pawling Station is the only train stop on the trail’s full 2,000-mile route, making this section uniquely accessible. The trail is well-maintained by the New York–New Jersey Trail Conference, with access to nearby state parks like Harriman and Bear Mountain. It’s perfect for day hikers and long-haul enthusiasts alike. Whether you want to test your endurance or simply reconnect with nature, this iconic trail delivers.
Where to stay: This two-bedroom Hudson Valley cabin in Pawling is ideal for post-hike relaxation, offering fishing, swimming, and kayaking in a peaceful setting surrounded by forested beauty.
10. Storm King
How to get there: Take the Metro-North to Beacon, roughly one hour from Grand Central.
Difficulty: Challenging
Storm King has gone viral for a reason—rugged trails, panoramic views, and 500 acres of sculpture-dotted terrain await. The 2.5-mile loop begins with a steep rock scramble, earning its status as one of the most dramatic hiking trails near NYC. Not up for a climb? The Storm King Art Center near the trailhead is equally awe-inspiring, with large-scale installations by Alexander Calder, Sol LeWitt, and Zhang Huan. During autumn, the foliage competes with the artwork for attention. Arrive early—this destination draws large crowds, especially on weekends. The combination of culture, cardio, and scenic splendor makes Storm King a rare gem, where you can appreciate both natural and artistic grandeur in one spot.
Where to stay: The Roundhouse, in Beacon, merges modern comfort with farmhouse charm, serving gourmet breakfasts and cocktails—a refined place to unwind after your art-and-nature day.
11. Breakneck Ridge
How to get there: Take the Metro-North to Beacon or Cold Spring (90 mins).
Difficulty: Challenging
Breakneck Ridge is a rite of passage for local adventurers. Though its namesake station is under renovation, nearby stops keep access easy. This three-mile loop is one of the most famous best hikes near NYC thanks to its dramatic elevation, rock scrambles, and switchbacks.
The views? Absolutely worth it—360 degrees of the Hudson River Valley await those who reach the summit. It’s challenging, exhilarating, and wildly popular, particularly in fall. You’ll want good shoes, water, and stamina for this one. Though car-free access adds appeal, the real draw is the physical thrill and sweeping reward that makes Breakneck Ridge a bucket-list hike.
Where to stay: Pig Hill Inn, a historic B&B in Cold Spring dating back to 1825, offers cozy rooms and a hearty breakfast—perfect after a demanding day on the trail.
