New York City, United States-hiking-areas
Best Hiking Areas in New York City
Who says you can’t find great hiking spots in the concrete jungle of New York City? While it may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of hiking, NYC has plenty of hidden gems and scenic trails that offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle. Here are some of the best hiking areas in New York City:
1. Bear Mountain State Park
Located about an hour north of Manhattan, Bear Mountain State Park offers over 50 miles of hiking trails with stunning views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains. The park’s most popular trail is the Bear Mountain Loop, a 3.5-mile hike that takes you to the top of Bear Mountain.
2. Central Park
While not as rugged as some of the other options on this list, Central Park has several hiking trails that offer a peaceful escape from the city streets. The Loeb Boathouse Trail is a popular option, taking you through a scenic loop around the lake and offering great views of the Manhattan skyline.
3. Van Cortlandt Park
Located in the Bronx, Van Cortlandt Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, including the John Muir Nature Trail and the Cass Gallagher Trail. The park is also home to several lakes, forests, and meadows, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
4. Inwood Hill Park
Located in upper Manhattan, Inwood Hill Park has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Hudson River and Palisades Interstate Park. The park is also home to several historic sites, including the Spuyten Duyvil Creek and the Indian Road Bridge.
5. Floyd Bennett Field
Part of the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge in Brooklyn, Floyd Bennett Field has several hiking trails that take you through wetlands, forests, and meadows. The park is a great spot for birdwatching, with over 325 species of birds documented in the area.
6. Randall’s Island Park
Located in the East River between Manhattan and Queens, Randall’s Island Park has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the city skyline and the river. The park is also home to several gardens, a nature center, and a variety of wildlife.
7. Jamaica Bay Greenway
A 10-mile trail that takes you through Brooklyn and Queens, the Jamaica Bay Greenway offers stunning views of the bay and surrounding wetlands. The trail is perfect for hikers, bikers, and birdwatchers alike.
Tips and Essentials
- Always wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Bring plenty of water and snacks
- Check the weather forecast before heading out
- Respect wildlife and their habitats
- Bring a map and compass or GPS device
- Let someone know your itinerary and expected return time
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a quick escape from the city, these hiking areas in New York City are sure to provide a refreshing adventure. So lace up those hiking boots and get ready to explore!