The best walks and hikes around Montauk
4.8
(12)
90
hikers
24
hikes
Hiking around Montauk, located at the easternmost tip of Long Island, New York, offers diverse natural landscapes. The region features ocean bluffs, rolling dunes, wooded paths, freshwater wetlands, and rugged shorelines. These varied terrains provide a range of experiences for hikers. Numerous state parks contribute to the extensive network of trails available.
Best hiking trails in Montauk
- The most popular hiking route is Montauk Point Loop – Montauk Point State Park, a 6.2 miles (9.9 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3
hikers
8.33km
02:10
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.29km
00:21
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(4)
23
hikers
9.96km
02:36
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.99km
01:34
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
6.96km
01:48
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Montauk
Tips from the Community
There are, by the way, some beautiful places here in the north of Long Island. Large colonial-style villas, some with park-like gardens, are a sight to behold. The sophistication is reminiscent of places like Kampen on Sylt.
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Montauk, by the way, has a walk-through lighthouse, which houses a small but fine museum that, among other things, explains the history of the Native Americans who once lived on Long Island.
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Anyone visiting Long Island should definitely visit Montauk, as this end of the island is not only scenically very attractive - Pocahontas' life took place here, which is historically interesting. The "Hamptons" are also not far away. These places are beautiful: the picture-perfect east coast.
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The Old Montauk Highway leads to a trail through the woods with a gate that says closed to traffic. We took it and it’s fine. There’s a nice parking area with a cliff view at the end just before you get to the lighthouse, check it out.
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Camp Hero State Park covers 415 acres of wooded areas and a beachfront with a historic military installation. Hikers, runners, bikers, and horseback riders can explore the trail systems going through forests, freshwater wetlands, ocean vistas, and bluffs. Swimming is not allowed here.
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At 136 acres and the second-largest pond in Montauk State Park, Oyster Pond is a unique land formation separated from the ocean by just a small strip of land.
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At the easternmost point of Long Island & New York's first lighthouse, Montauk Point Lighthouse built in 1796 was one of the first sights that immigrants saw when arriving in the USA by ship.
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You're at the eastern tip of the South Shore of Long Island! This is where the Block Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean meet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Montauk?
Montauk offers over 20 distinct hiking routes, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These trails explore diverse landscapes, from coastal bluffs to wooded paths and freshwater wetlands.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Montauk?
Yes, Montauk has 14 easy hiking routes. A great option for families is the Montauk Point Lighthouse & Camp Hero State Park loop, which is 5.9 km long and combines scenic views with historical elements. Another accessible choice is the Shadmoor State Park loop, a shorter 2.7 km trail with breathtaking ocean views.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Montauk?
Montauk's hiking trails showcase a rich variety of natural landscapes. You'll encounter dramatic ocean bluffs, rolling dunes, serene wooded paths, unique freshwater wetlands, and rugged shorelines. Parks like Shadmoor State Park offer cliffside vistas, while Hither Hills State Park features the distinctive 'Walking Dunes'.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Montauk?
Yes, many trails in Montauk are circular. For example, the Montauk Point Loop – Montauk Point State Park is a 9.9 km moderate circular route. Another popular loop is the Seal Haul Out Loop – Montauk Point State Park, an easy 6.9 km option.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see along Montauk's hiking trails?
Montauk's trails often lead to significant landmarks. You can visit the iconic Montauk Point Lighthouse, explore the historical grounds of Camp Hero State Park with its old bunkers, or enjoy the expansive views from Montauk Point itself. The 'Walking Dunes' in Hither Hills State Park also offer a unique natural attraction.
Can I spot wildlife while hiking in Montauk?
Yes, Montauk offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along coastal trails, especially near Montauk Point State Park, you might see seabirds and seals. The Seal Haul Out Loop is specifically known for sightings of seals sunbathing on rocks or the beach.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Montauk?
The hiking routes in Montauk are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse scenery, from dramatic ocean views to peaceful wooded paths, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels.
Are there any trails that combine historical sites with natural beauty?
Absolutely. The Montauk Point Lighthouse & Camp Hero State Park loop is a prime example. This trail takes you past the historic lighthouse and through Camp Hero State Park, a former WWII military base, where you can explore maritime forests and discover old bunkers and a Cold War-era radar tower amidst stunning ocean bluffs.
Which trail offers the best ocean views in Montauk?
For breathtaking ocean views, the Shadmoor State Park loop is highly recommended. This trail winds along high cliffs and sandy dunes, providing expansive vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. It's particularly popular for sunrise hikes.
Are there trails that explore freshwater environments in Montauk?
Yes, the Big Reed Pond Trail, located within Montauk County Park, offers multiple loops through freshwater wetlands and woodlands. This area is a National Natural Landmark, providing a different ecological experience compared to the coastal trails, with opportunities to see freshwater ponds and explore paths through dense woods.
What is the longest moderate hike available in Montauk?
The longest moderate hike is the Montauk Point Loop – Montauk Point State Park, covering 9.9 kilometers. This route offers expansive views where the Atlantic Ocean and Block Island Sound converge, providing a rewarding challenge for those seeking a longer outing.
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