Easy hikes and walks around New City
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Easy hiking trails around New City offer a variety of landscapes, from serene park paths to routes with elevated viewpoints. The region features a mix of wooded areas, historical sites, and waterfront trails along the Hudson River tributaries. These paths are generally characterized by gentle gradients and accessible terrain, making them suitable for casual walks. The natural features include local hills, forested sections, and open parklands.
Best easy hiking trails around New City
- The most popular easy hiking route is Kennedy Dells Park, a 2.8 miles (4.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 11 minutes to complete. This route features gentle paths through a local park, ideal for a relaxed outing.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is High Tor via Long Path, an easy 1.3 miles (2.0 km) path. This trail offers a steady ascent to a viewpoint, providing scenic vistas over the surrounding area.
- Local hikers also love the McAndrews Estate Loop, a 1.4 miles (2.2 km) trail leading through varied parkland, often completed in about 37 minutes.
- Hiking around New City is defined by accessible park trails, local hills, and historical points of interest. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails suitable for families and casual walkers.
- The routes in New City are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 700 hikers have used komoot to explore New City's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
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11
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4.55km
01:11
30m
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Discover Kennedy Dells Park on an easy hike that spans 2.8 miles (4.5 km), featuring a gentle elevation gain of just 100 feet (31 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 11 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed outing. As you follow the path, you will wind through a scenic hemlock gorge, enjoying views of Crum Creek and its small cascades, including a roughly twenty-foot waterfall.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as Kennedy Dells Park is open year-round from 8 AM until sunset. You will find ample parking available at the trailhead, along with convenient restrooms and picnic tables if you wish to extend your stay. The park is also dog friendly, so feel free to bring your canine companion along for the adventure.
Beyond the natural beauty of its wooded areas and open fields, the park holds intriguing historical elements. Keep an eye out for the ruins of an old stone dam and a 19th-century stone pumphouse, which add a unique touch to your journey. These remnants offer a glimpse into the area's past, making your hike both scenic and historically engaging.
2.04km
00:41
150m
0m
Hike the High Tor via Long Path for an easy 1.3-mile route in High Tor State Park, offering panoramic views from the summit.
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3.09km
00:48
20m
20m
Hike the easy 1.9-mile Croton Point Park Loop for scenic Hudson River views, rocky beaches, and historical sites on a unique peninsula.
6.19km
02:00
270m
270m
Embark on the Third Reservoir via Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail for an easy hike through varied terrain. This route spans 3.8 miles (6.2 km) and involves an elevation gain of 888 feet (271 metres), typically taking about 1 hours and 59 minutes to complete. You will experience a mix of rocky paths and easier woods roads, with the beautiful Third Reservoir serving as a prominent visual landmark along the way.
When planning your visit, be aware that navigation can sometimes be tricky due to intersecting trails; carrying a map is a good idea. It is best to avoid hiking on rainy days, as some rocky sections can become slippery and potentially hazardous. Always remember to bring enough water, as reliable sources along the trail can be seasonal, and swimming in the reservoirs is not permitted.
This trail offers a chance to explore Harriman State Park, providing diverse scenery throughout your journey. From certain vantage points, you might even catch glimpses of the distant NYC skyline or enjoy panoramic vistas over the park's lakes and hills. The varied landscape and views make this route a notable option for experiencing the natural beauty of the region.
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This easy loop around Rockland Lake offers a refreshing escape, primarily following a paved path that hugs the shoreline of the 256-acre freshwater lake. You'll find yourself amidst beautiful greenery and trees, with open vistas across the water and shaded sections providing a pleasant variety. The route is mostly flat, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed outing, and you might even spot some of the diverse wildlife, including various bird species, that call this area home. The path is shared, so expect to see joggers and cyclists enjoying the scenery alongside you.
To plan your visit, start from Nyack Beach State Park, which provides convenient access to the loop. Rockland Lake State Park is a highly utilized area, especially in warmer months, so consider an early start to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience. No special permits are required for this family-friendly hike, and the well-maintained path makes it accessible for most.
Beyond the scenic lake views, this trail offers a glimpse into the region's history with remnants of old ice houses along the path, harkening back to the Knickerbocker Ice Company's operations. The park's designation as a Bird Conservation Area also makes it a notable spot for birdwatching. It's a popular destination for a reason, blending natural beauty with historical intrigue and easy accessibility.
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Tips from the Community
This 256-acre lake might seem pretty shrimpy alongside the mighty Hudson River to the east, but the lake has a nice road-ride loop all the way around it, and a small jetty leading into the water.
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This reservoir is one of three in the area, and many would say it's the crown jewel. The water clarity is remarkable - you can see clearly all the way to the bottom in parts. As you walk around the lake, look for the flat rocks along the edges. These rocks make ideal spots to stop, and appreciate the natural beauty around you.
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This is a beautiful park, centred around its lake. The perfect spot for a break!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around New City?
New City offers a great selection of easy hiking trails, with over 30 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are 67 hiking routes in the area, providing a diverse range of options for all skill levels.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on easy hikes near New City?
Easy hikes around New City often feature a mix of wooded areas, local hills, and open parklands. You can find serene paths through parks like Kennedy Dells Park, or enjoy scenic vistas from elevated points such as the High Tor via Long Path. The wider region also boasts significant natural beauty, including the Hudson River, various lakes, and remnants of Manhattan's original forest in places like Inwood Hill Park.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in New City?
Yes, many of the easy trails around New City are perfect for families. Routes like Kennedy Dells Park and McAndrews Estate Loop offer gentle paths through varied parkland, making them suitable for casual walkers and children. The region's focus on accessible park trails ensures a pleasant experience for all ages.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in New City?
The easy hiking trails in New City are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful atmosphere of the local parks, and the accessibility of routes that offer both relaxation and scenic viewpoints.
Are there any circular easy hikes available?
Yes, several easy trails around New City are circular, providing convenient loop options. For example, the McAndrews Estate Loop is a popular choice that takes you through varied parkland. Another great option is the Croton Point Park Loop, which offers a pleasant walk with scenic views.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I find near the easy hiking trails?
Near the easy hiking trails, you can explore several interesting landmarks and attractions. The historic New Croton Dam is a notable man-made monument. For natural beauty, you might encounter the Hudson River Waterfront Trail at Nyack Beach State Park or the Nyack River Trail. These areas offer a blend of historical significance and scenic views.
Are there any easy trails with good viewpoints?
Absolutely. The High Tor via Long Path is an excellent easy trail that offers a steady ascent to a viewpoint, providing scenic vistas over the surrounding area. While not directly in New City, the wider region also features stunning viewpoints like those found in Bear Mountain State Park or along the Hudson Highlands.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in New City?
The best time for easy hikes in New City is generally during spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer pleasant weather conditions, vibrant foliage, and comfortable temperatures for exploring the trails. Fall, in particular, provides beautiful autumn colors in the wooded areas.
Are there any easy trails that are historically significant?
Yes, the Stony Point Battlefield Trail offers a historically significant easy hike. This trail takes you through the grounds of a Revolutionary War battlefield, allowing you to combine a pleasant walk with a glimpse into 18th-century history. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, though not in New City itself, also provides a historical hiking experience through 19th-century New York.
Are there any lakes or water features accessible on easy hikes?
While specific easy hikes directly in New City might not feature large lakes, the broader region offers several beautiful water features. You can find lakes like Pine Meadow Lake and Rockland Lake South nearby. The New Croton Dam is also a significant water-related landmark worth exploring.
How long do easy hikes around New City typically take?
Easy hikes around New City vary in length and duration. For instance, the Stony Point Battlefield Trail can be completed in under 20 minutes, while the Kennedy Dells Park route takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes. Most easy trails are designed for casual outings, ranging from 30 minutes to just over an hour.
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