The best walks and hikes around New York

Yes, New York is famous for its waterfall hikes, especially in the Finger Lakes and Hudson Valley regions.

For a truly spectacular experience, many hikers visit Watkins Glen State Park, which is renowned for its Gorge Trail that passes 19 waterfalls within two miles. Another highly-regarded option is Taughannock Falls State Park, home to a magnificent 215-foot waterfall.

Dog-friendly trails are common, but policies vary by park. State Parks like Bear Mountain State Park often allow leashed dogs on trails but may restrict them from buildings, picnic areas, or swimming areas. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go. For urban walks, the Brooklyn Bridge Park loop is a great option for a scenic walk with your leashed dog.

For a simple and iconic family outing, the Central Park south loop offers a gentle walk through a world-famous landscape. If you're looking for more of a nature-focused trip, Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a popular choice, offering easy footpaths around its stunning sky lakes that are suitable for all ages.

Yes, several excellent hiking areas are reachable by train. The Metro-North Hudson Line provides access to trailheads for popular hikes like Breakneck Ridge and Anthony's Nose. For an urban adventure accessible by subway, the Roosevelt Island loop offers unique city views on a flat, easy path.

The trails around New York are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible diversity, from the rugged mountain scenery of the Hudson Valley to the unique architectural views on city walks like the Brooklyn Bridge & Manhattan Bridge loop.

You'll find a vast network of trails to explore. This guide features a curated selection, but there are well over 600 hiking routes around New York available on komoot, ranging from easy urban walks to challenging mountain ascents.

Loop trails are great for seeing new scenery without backtracking. For a substantial urban loop, consider the West Drive & East Drive loop in Central Park. If you're looking for a cultural walk, the Chinatown & Little Italy loop offers a fascinating tour through several iconic neighborhoods.

For dramatic mountain and river views, Bear Mountain State Park is a classic destination with a summit that offers panoramic vistas of the Hudson Highlands. For an unforgettable city skyline view, the walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is unmatched, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Absolutely. While this guide highlights many accessible routes, New York is home to famously strenuous hikes. The Hudson Valley's Breakneck Ridge is a well-known, difficult rock scramble. Further north, the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains offer numerous High Peaks that provide a serious challenge for seasoned mountaineers.

For urban walks like the Battery & Nelson A. Rockefeller Park loop, comfortable shoes and water are usually sufficient. For mountain trails in the Hudson Valley or Catskills, you should also bring layered clothing, a map, extra food, a headlamp, and a first-aid kit, as weather can change quickly.

For the most current information on trail status, safety alerts, and regulations for state-managed lands, it's best to check with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. You can find details on their official hiking page: dec.ny.gov.