Easy hikes and walks around Bay Shore
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If you've ever tried planning a hiking trip around Bay Shore, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and parks, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, walked, and reviewed countless routes here, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best easy hiking trails in Bay…
Last updated: June 2, 2026
17
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3.57km
00:55
10m
10m
The Bayard Cutting Arboretum Loop offers a serene and easy hike, guiding you through a living museum of trees. You'll wander past ancient oak trees and impressive conifers, with the…
4.2
(5)
8
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7.69km
01:57
10m
10m
The Home Trail offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family outing. This easy 4.8-mile (7.7 km) hiking route features a gentle…
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2
hikers
5.76km
01:27
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If you're looking for a genuinely easy hike with plenty of visual interest, the Heckscher State Park Bike Path delivers. This 3.6-mile (5.8 km) route offers a pleasant journey through…
1
hikers
2.36km
00:36
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The Belmont Lake State Park Loop offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic hike, perfect for a relaxed outing. This easy 1.5-mile (2.4 km) route circles the picturesque Belmont Lake, featuring…
1.37km
00:21
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If you're seeking a genuinely easy and quick outdoor escape, the Plover Trail delivers a pleasant experience without breaking a sweat. This 0.8-mile (1.4 km) hike features a minimal 2…
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Tips from the Community
From this spot you get a nice view of a small waterfall flowing out of Belmont Lake into Carl's River. This is a pleasant spot to pause as you ride around Belmont Lake State Park and the surrounding area.
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Belmont Lake State Park and the path running through it makes a perfect spot to cycle through off of the road and enjoy the green scenery. With the Carlis River running through it, there is plenty to see along the way.
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Southards Pond Park is a popular spot for easy hiking in Babylon, New York. There is a dirt hiking loop that circles the Southards Pond (the centerpiece of the park) and a couple other paths that follow the Carlls River south.
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If you are looking for a scenic and relaxing trail run, you might want to check out Southards Pond Park in Babylon, New York. This park features a 1.4-mile loop trail that circles around a large pond, where you can enjoy the views of the water and the wildlife. The trail is mostly flat and easy, with some dirt footpaths and wooden bridges. You can access the trail from many points around the pond, but the south shoreline offers the easiest access. The park is open from dawn to dusk. Southards Pond Park is a great place to enjoy nature and get some fresh air while running.
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The area where Belmont Lake funnels back into the Carlls River at the southern end of the reservoir is a popular viewing spot of the water. There is a bridge crossing the creek with a head-on view of the small cascade formed by the lake flowing into the tight waterway.
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Belmont Lake is fed by the Carlls River and features a few tiny islands in the middle of the reservoir. There are docks, benches, picnic tables, and a small pier on the east side of the water. The dam on the south side of the lake is another popular hiking destination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Bay Shore?
Bay Shore offers a selection of 21 easy hiking trails. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, including coastal paths, woodlands, and state park environments, providing accessible options for various fitness levels.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect on easy hikes near Bay Shore?
Easy hikes around Bay Shore feature a mix of coastal paths with views of the Great South Bay, serene woodlands, and open fields. You'll also find trails alongside rivers like the Connetquot River and around lakes such as Belmont Lake, offering varied natural scenery.
Are there any easy circular hiking routes in Bay Shore?
Yes, there are easy circular routes available. For instance, the Belmont Lake State Park Loop is an easy 1.5-mile path that provides scenic lake views and winds through wooded areas, perfect for a relaxed outing.
Which easy trails are suitable for families with children?
Many easy trails in Bay Shore are family-friendly due to their generally flat terrain. The Belmont Lake State Park Loop is a short and scenic option, while the South Shore Nature Center Trail offers an engaging experience for younger explorers.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Bay Shore?
Yes, some areas are dog-friendly. Gardiner County Park, for example, is known for its pet-friendly walking trails that offer glimpses of the Great South Bay. Always check specific park regulations before heading out with your dog.
Are there easy trails with scenic viewpoints or waterfront access?
Absolutely. Trails like the Heckscher State Park Bike Path offer picturesque views of the Great South Bay. Many coastal paths provide scenic waterfront access, allowing hikers to enjoy the unique ecological sights of salt marshes and bay vistas.
What are some shorter easy hikes for a quick outing?
For a quick and easy outing, consider the Belmont Lake State Park Loop, which is 1.5 miles and takes about 36 minutes. Another short option is the Plover Trail, which is approximately 0.8 miles long.
Are there any specific attractions or landmarks I can visit along these easy trails?
Yes, several easy trails are near notable attractions. For example, the area around Belmont Lake State Park features a waterfall at the Belmont Lake outlet. Heckscher State Park, accessible via easy trails, also boasts the Heckscher State Park Beach.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Bay Shore?
The easy trails in Bay Shore are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil woodlands to scenic waterfronts, and the accessibility of the routes for all skill levels.
Are there easy trails that offer views of lakes or rivers?
Yes, several easy trails provide beautiful views of lakes and rivers. Belmont Lake State Park offers paths with direct lake views, and trails within Connetquot River State Park Preserve follow sections of the Connetquot River, providing serene riverside scenery.
Are the easy hiking trails in Bay Shore generally flat or do they have some elevation?
The easy hiking trails in Bay Shore are generally flat, making them accessible for most. While some routes may have very minor, gentle inclines, significant elevation changes are not typical, ensuring a comfortable walking experience.
Is parking readily available at the trailheads for easy hikes?
Many state parks and preserves in the Bay Shore area, such as Heckscher State Park and Belmont Lake State Park, offer designated parking facilities near their trailheads. It's advisable to check specific park information for any parking fees or regulations.
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