The best walks and hikes around Nyack

Yes, there are over 70 designated hiking routes in the Nyack area. The trails offer a great deal of variety, from flat, paved paths along the Hudson River to strenuous climbs up the cliffs of the Palisades.

The trails cater to all levels. The majority are rated as easy, perfect for leisurely walks. There are also numerous moderate routes that involve more significant elevation gain, and a couple of difficult trails for those seeking a serious challenge.

Absolutely. For a very easy and accessible outing, the Pierson Park and Tarrytown Riverwalk is a short, flat path through parkland. Another excellent choice is the paved 3.2-mile loop around the lake at Rockland Lake State Park, which is ideal for walkers of all ages.

Many trails in the area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. State Parks like Nyack Beach, Hook Mountain, and Tallman Mountain generally permit leashed dogs on their trails. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go.

Buttermilk Falls County Park is your best destination for a waterfall hike. It features one of the tallest waterfalls in Rockland County. The trails there are relatively short but involve a steep climb to the top of the falls, offering rewarding views.

The Refreshing point loop from Valley Cottage is a popular choice. This moderate loop takes you through woodland and up to viewpoints with fantastic vistas over the Hudson River valley and Rockland Lake.

Yes, the Long Path, a 357-mile trail stretching from NYC to the Catskills, passes directly through the Nyack area. You can hike a particularly dramatic section from Nyack to Haverstraw, which offers a challenging full-day trek along rocky ridges with epic river views.

For panoramic views, the summit of Hook Mountain is unbeatable, offering sightlines over the river, Rockland Lake, and even the Manhattan skyline on a clear day. For ground-level scenery, the flat trail at Nyack Beach State Park follows the river's edge, providing beautiful views of the water against the backdrop of the Palisades cliffs.

Yes, you can. The Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge path is a shared-use path for walkers and cyclists that spans the Hudson River. It's a unique hike that provides wide-open, expansive views up and down the river from its midpoint.

Parking availability depends on your chosen trail. Nyack Beach State Park, Hook Mountain State Park, and Rockland Lake State Park all have dedicated parking areas, though a vehicle use fee may apply. Arriving early on weekends is recommended as lots can fill up quickly.

The trails around Nyack are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the stunning views of the Hudson River and the sheer variety of the terrain, which combines easy, flat riverside sections with challenging, rocky climbs all in one area.

The Raymond G. Esposito Trail, a former rail line connecting Nyack with Piermont, is a great option. It's a flat and mostly shaded multi-use path that offers pleasant views of the surrounding marshlands.