7 Best Hiking Trails Near New York City

1. Breakneck Ridge Trail

Breakneck Ridge Trail is a 13.8 km (8.57 mi) hiking route to the South Beacon Mountain. Situated near Beacon, New York, it is a favorite among hiking enthusiasts for its close proximity. The best time to go hiking at this location is between the months of April to November. If you have a pet dog, he can accompany you on this trail as well since it is permissible. Though one of the most magnificent hikes, it can get difficult for some as it can be very steep. Additionally, if you are one who prefers a remote trek, this would not be a suitable option since it frequently tends to get crowded with other hikers.

Breakneck Ridge Trail

Address: Philipstown/Fiskill, New York, U.S.

2. Stairway to Heaven Trail

The next hiking trail near New York City in our list is the 4.6 km (2.9 miles) Stairway to Heaven trail near Vernon. It is open all through the year. The hike begins at AT crossing and is mostly flat on boardwalks. Along this trail, you can find a view of a suspension bridge and a cow pasture. Dogs are allowed on this trail but they need to be kept on a leash. Towards the end, the trail becomes harder. But if you plan properly, you can extend your hike to about 11.7 km (7.3 miles) up to the Wawayanda Mountain. Once you reach the top of the Stairway to Heaven Trail, you can enjoy the view of the Kittatinny Mountains.

Stairway to Heaven Trail

Address: Vernon Township, NJ 07462

3. Anthony's Nose Trail

Located near Cold Spring, Anthony’s Nose Trail is a 3.05 km (1.9 miles) trail that visitors use mostly for hiking, trail running, and a simple walk. Dogs are allowed on the trail but need to be kept on a leash. It is a short trail that normally takes around one and a half to two hours to complete. Parking is available at the beginning of the trail but is limited to a few cars. The start of this trail is steep but levels off later. You’ll see a soothing view of the Hudson River midway. Hikers will need to cross a few streams along the trail. The ending of the trail is also steep, hence one needs to be cautious. Many consider this a good option for anyone who wants to go on a short hike.

Anthony's Nose II - Trail Head

Address: Bear Mountain Bridge Rd, Cortlandt, NY 10567

4. Verkeerderkill Falls Trail

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One of the biggest reasons why many hiking enthusiasts visit the 8.8 km (5.5 miles) Verkeererkill Falls is to get a stunning view of the waterfall. But as a whole, this trail can be challenging. The waterfall is 187 feet. It is also the commonly used lunch spot for hikers. If you go on this trail, you need to be cautious at all times and ensure that your footing is proper. This trail is near Cragsmoor in New York. The best time to visit is between the months of April to October. A word of caution; there have been some snakes spotted around the trail. This is why you should be careful. Also, since the trail can be a bit challenging physically, it is best to go only if you are an experienced hiker.

Verkeerderkill Falls Trail

Address: Cragsmoor, NY 12420, United States

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

5. Overlook Mountain Trailhead

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The Overlook Mountain Trailhead is a 7.40 km (4.6 miles) hike that can be found near Woodstock, New York. The parking area has adequate space for around 30 cars. There have been sightings of snakes and bears, so extreme caution needs to be practiced. Hikers can also see various wildflowers throughout the trail. Since it is a popular trail, you can expect it to be crowded especially on weekends. After approximately 1.8 miles, you can start to see the rubbles of Overlook Mountain House. Once there, the top is not too far away. There is a metal tower that you can climb for an excellent view of the place. The best time to visit the Overlook Mountain Trailhead is during the months of March until November.

Overlook Mountain Trailhead

Address: 353 Meads Mountain Rd, Woodstock, NY 12498

Opening hours: 12am - 12am (daily)

6. Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail stretches along 3,524 km (2190 mi) across 14 states. In New York State, it covers 90 miles. The length of the trail is around 30 miles to the northern part of New York City. The lowest part of the trail is at this stretch close to the Bear Mountain Bridge. The portion of the trail near New York City takes the hiker away from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple. It does give that remote feeling during the trail, which one so seeks when they decide to go hiking. In this trail, there are eight shelter points and crosses the Hudson River on the Bear Mountain Bridge. It continues to the Fahnestock State Park. The Appalachian Trail is referred to as just AT too.

Appalachian Trail

Address: 799 Washington St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

7. Constitution Marsh Trail

The Constitution Marsh Trail is located in the southern part of the Cold Spring Village in Putnam Country, New York. The trail is quite short, having a distance of only 1.93 km (1.2 miles). Despite this, it still is an interesting trail since it offers great views to natural landscapes and various wildflowers. You will need to pass through the marsh present on the Hudson River, where you can also see a waterfall. There are many small streams along the trail, but it can become rockier towards the end. The best time to visit this trail is between the months of April to October. Parents can bring their children along to this trail.

Constitution Marsh Trail

Address: 127 Warren Landing Rd, Garrison, NY 10524, United States

Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)

Explore some of the best hiking trails near New York City

New York City is best known for its shopping, culinary scene, and lively nightlife. But it is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts as many hiking trails are located near New York City.