The best walks and hikes around Merrick

Embark on the Eisenhower Course for an easy hike through a pleasant park setting, perfect for a relaxing outing. This route spans 2.3 miles (3.6 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 14 feet (4 metres), making it accessible for nearly everyone. You can comfortably complete this stroll in about 54 minutes, enjoying the green spaces and fresh air, especially when the autumn foliage adds vibrant colors to the scenery.

Planning your visit to the Eisenhower Course is straightforward, as it is conveniently located within Eisenhower Park in East Meadow. You will find ample parking available directly at the park, ensuring easy access to the trailhead. There are no specific permits or fees required to hike this route, allowing for a spontaneous and hassle-free experience any day of the week.

The Eisenhower Course offers a peaceful escape within Nassau County, providing a gentle way to connect with nature. It stands out as a readily available option for those seeking a leisurely walk without significant challenges. The park environment itself serves as a notable feature, offering a serene backdrop for your activity.

Embark on an easy hike along the Hempstead Lake State Park North Loop, a route that guides you through pleasant wooded sections and past the tranquil waters of Northeast and Northwest Ponds. This accessible trail spans 2.0 miles (3.1 km), with a minimal elevation gain of just 31 feet (9 metres), making it suitable for a relaxed outing. You can expect to complete this loop in about 48 minutes, enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings. Be sure to pause at the observation deck overlooking Northeast Pond, a perfect spot to take in the views and watch for local wildlife. The path offers a gentle experience, ideal for those seeking a quiet escape into nature.

Planning your visit to Hempstead Lake State Park is straightforward, with convenient parking generally available near the trailhead. The northern section of the park has undergone significant enhancements, including the development of ADA-compliant trails. These improvements, along with a 10-foot-wide stone dust greenway, ensure the route is welcoming for a wide range of mobility levels. You will find the paths easy to navigate, making it a great choice for a spontaneous outdoor activity.

The Hempstead Lake State Park North Loop stands out for its commitment to accessibility, offering a well-maintained greenway that caters to diverse visitors. The trail's primary appeal lies in its serene natural setting, providing a peaceful contrast to urban life. It offers a chance to observe local wildlife and appreciate the park's efforts in preserving its natural beauty. This route is a testament to thoughtful park development, blending natural scenery with user-friendly infrastructure.

Embark on the Jones Beach Bikeway for a moderate 5.4-mile (8.7 km) hike, offering expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Great South Bay. This route, with a minimal elevation gain of just 32 feet (10 metres), takes approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes to complete. You will experience a mix of paved paths and boardwalk sections, particularly near the iconic Jones Beach Boardwalk. The flat terrain makes for an easygoing journey, allowing you to soak in the maritime dunes and coastal atmosphere. Keep an eye out for diverse bird species and even baby bunnies in the natural areas.

Parking is readily available at various locations, including Jones Beach, where you will also find convenient restrooms and food concessions. While the trail is accessible year-round, be aware that summer weekends can draw large crowds, especially along the boardwalk sections. For a more tranquil hiking experience, consider visiting during the quieter fall and winter months. Starting your hike earlier in the day can also help you avoid peak times and enjoy the coastal serenity.

This multi-use path is notable for its unique position within Jones Beach State Park, offering glimpses of the New York City skyline on clear days. The Park Preservation Area at the West End provides untouched natural settings, making it a prime spot for wildlife observation. The trail's blend of ocean vistas, bay views, and maritime dunes creates a distinctive coastal hiking environment.

Embark on the Bethpage Bikeway Trail for a challenging hiking experience that stretches 13.8 miles (22.2 km) and includes a total elevation gain of 387 feet (118 metres). This route, rated difficult, will take you approximately 5 hours and 41 minutes to complete. You will find yourself moving through varied landscapes, from the dense wooded sections of the Massapequa Preserve to the lush, greener settings within Bethpage State Park, often on parallel unpaved paths that offer a more natural feel with exposed roots and dirt. As you hike, keep an eye out for Massapequa Lake and Massapequa Creek, which add to the scenic beauty.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail boasts numerous access points along its entire length. If you prefer public transport, you can easily reach the southern end of the trail from the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station in Massapequa. For those driving, various parking and trailhead access points are available along the route, making it convenient to start your adventure. Consider starting early to make the most of your day on this extensive trail.

What makes this trail particularly interesting is its unique blend of environments, allowing you to choose between paved sections and more rugged, unpaved options. You might spot local wildlife, such as ducks and swans, especially around Massapequa Lake and Massapequa Creek. The trail's path through both the Massapequa Preserve and Bethpage State Park highlights the diverse natural beauty of the area, offering a rich experience for hikers looking for a substantial outing.