Easy hikes and walks around Newburgh
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Easy hiking trails around Newburgh are found within a diverse landscape featuring the Hudson Highlands, the Shawangunk Ridge, and the Wallkill River. The area provides varied natural attractions and trails. Newburgh's location along the Hudson River offers picturesque waterfront views and opportunities for walks. The region also includes lakes and reservoirs, such as Chadwick Lake, providing scenic views and walking trails.
Best easy hiking trails around Newburgh
- The most popular easy hiking route is Higher Fish Pond and Lower Fish Pond loop from Yearsley Woods Car Park — Howardian Hills, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 33 minutes to complete. This route features gentle elevation gain around scenic ponds.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Yearsley Moor – Lower Fish Pond loop from Yearsley, an easy 3.9 miles (6.4 km) path. This trail offers views of the moorland and a lower fish pond.
- Local hikers also love the Byland Abbey Ruins – Abbey Bank Wood — Path to Wass loop from Byland with Wass, a 3.7 miles (5.9 km) trail leading through Abbey Bank Wood, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Newburgh is defined by riverfront paths, lake loops, and trails through varied woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 85 easy hiking trails available.
- The routes in Newburgh are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from nearly 1,000 reviews. More than 7,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Newburgh's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
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Embark on an easy hike through the picturesque Howardian Hills, exploring the Higher Fish Pond and Lower Fish Pond loop. This tranquil route covers 3.5 miles (5.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 354 feet (108 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete. You will wander through extensive woodlands with tall, mature trees, experiencing varied terrain including forest paths, gravel, and some undulating sections. The highlight is the serene Lower Fish Pond, where wooden piers allow you to walk out over the water, offering lovely views and often swans. On sunny days, the water can appear strikingly blue, creating a beautiful scene.
Starting conveniently from Yearsley Woods Car Park, this easy loop is perfect for a leisurely stroll. It is suitable for all fitness levels, making it a popular choice for families and dog walkers. The trail is dog-friendly, with opportunities for your canine companion to be off-leash in designated areas. Thanks to its heavy tree cover, the route offers good shelter on rainy days, making it a viable option for hiking throughout the year. You can enjoy this peaceful escape any time of day.
This trail stands out for its accessibility and its unique blend of woodland and waterside tranquility within the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The wooden piers at the Lower Fish Pond provide a distinct viewing experience of the lake. Beyond the ponds, you can also catch lovely views of the surrounding Howardian Hills over the treetops. It is a notable example of the region's natural beauty.
4.7
(9)
53
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6.35km
01:45
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
5.92km
01:36
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
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11
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2.85km
00:49
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Trails for every level
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The climb up is steep and very muddy, good footwear required.
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Byland Abbey is a stunning ruin dating back to the 1100s. It was once one of the grandest medieval monasteries but was dissolved by Henry VIII in the 1530s. Today it offers a scenic picnic spot and a glimpse into history. It's free to visit and features a tearoom open from March to November, serving cakes and coffee
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Very small sleepy hamlet dominated by the village green and mature trees, one of which is encircled by a wooden bench around the base of its trunk - ideal place for a quick pit stop.
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Abbey Bank Wood is the wood that time forgot. If you are descending into Wass from the Snever Observatory, but are not following the public footpath per the OS map, and instead following the numerous tracks to the south of Blind Side Gill, then be aware that these are not standard plantation tracks, they are woodland rabbit tracks that look as though they have been undisturbed for quite a long time. No sounds of any human activity anywhere, lots of Muntjac deer and birdsong, very peaceful and feels a million miles away from civilisation, when you are actually only a mile or so from Wass.
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The permissive path from Oldstead towards the southwest is well signposted, but is very steep at 22%. Might be OK if you are fresh, but have to admit it is a real struggle after 15 miles hard hiking in 21 degree sunshine! Alternative is to use trekking poles, or approach from the woods to the east and then descend the woodland track to Oldstead, which would have been easier.
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This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed (thus easy to run on). On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Newburgh?
There are over 85 easy hiking trails around Newburgh, offering a variety of experiences from riverfront paths to lake loops and woodland trails. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community.
What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes in Newburgh?
Easy hikes in Newburgh offer diverse scenery, including picturesque waterfront views along the Hudson River, scenic lake views at places like Chadwick Lake, and trails through varied woodlands within the Hudson Highlands and Shawangunk Ridge areas.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in Newburgh?
Yes, many easy trails in Newburgh are suitable for families. The Chadwick Lake Loop Trail, for instance, is an easy 4.2-mile path with scenic lake views and amenities like playgrounds. The Hudson Valley Rail Trail is another excellent paved option for families.
Can I bring my dog on easy hiking trails in Newburgh?
Many trails in the Newburgh area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in most state parks and local trails.
Are there any easy loop trails in Newburgh?
Yes, Newburgh offers several easy loop trails. The Chadwick Lake Loop Trail is a popular 4.2-mile option, providing a full circuit around the lake. The Butter Hill and Storm King Mountain Loop also offers an easy 2.3-mile loop with panoramic views.
What are some notable natural features or attractions I might see on an easy hike?
On easy hikes around Newburgh, you can encounter the majestic Hudson River, the serene Chadwick Lake, and the scenic Hudson Highlands. Algonquin Park also offers nature trails amid historical powder mill buildings.
Are there any easy trails with low elevation gain in Newburgh?
Yes, many easy trails in Newburgh feature low elevation gain, making them accessible for all fitness levels. Trails like the Chadwick Lake Loop and the Hudson Valley Rail Trail are relatively flat, offering comfortable walks.
What is the best time of year to go on an easy hike in Newburgh?
The best time for easy hikes in Newburgh is typically spring, summer, and fall, when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant. Fall offers spectacular foliage views, especially in the Hudson Highlands. Winter hiking is also possible, but trails may be icy or snowy.
Are there options for public transport or parking near easy hiking trails in Newburgh?
Parking is generally available at trailheads for popular spots like Chadwick Lake Park and access points for the Hudson Valley Rail Trail. Public transport options may be limited directly to trailheads, so checking local bus schedules or ride-sharing services is recommended for specific routes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about easy hiking in Newburgh?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful river and lake views, the well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of trails for various skill levels, especially the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands.
Are there any easy trails that offer views of the Hudson River?
Absolutely. Newburgh's location along the Hudson River means many trails offer stunning river views. The Newburgh-Beacon Bridge Walk provides direct panoramic views of the Hudson, and the Butter Hill and Storm King Mountain Loop also offers impressive vistas of the river and Highlands.
Where can I find more information about local parks and trails in Newburgh?
For more detailed information on local parks and recreational areas within Newburgh, you can visit the official Town of Newburgh website: townofnewburghny.gov.
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