Let's Go Play Outside
Seven Lakes Drive NY, Hudson Valley

Hiking near New York City

Pick your drive. Save time for the trail.

305 trails within 2 hr of New York City by car. Compare the drive, the walking time and the level to choose your next outing.

Photo : Seven Lakes Drive NY

Maximum one-way drive
With my dog

Drive times are estimates (≈) from the city centre, as the crow flies. Walking time comes from the trail page when it has one; a walking filter hides trails without a duration.

Hiking ideas near New York City

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Kings Point Park trail - hiking in Long Island

Drive ≈ 30 min Walk 30 min

Kings Point Park

Escape into 1.6 km of woodland trails on Long Island's North Shore, where dense forests create genuine seclusion despite suburban… Easy trail of 1.6 km, 6 m of climb.

Dog rules: check the trail page

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Nyack Beach State Park trail - hiking in Hudson Valley

Drive ≈ 56 min Walk 1 hr 15 min

Nyack Beach State Park

Along the Hudson Valley's western shore, this 2-3 hour riverside trail follows the path of a former 20th-century quarry operation. Easy trail of 3.2 km, 312 m of climb.

Dog rules: check the trail page

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Seven Lakes Drive NY trail - hiking in Hudson Valley

Drive ≈ 1 hr 11 min Walk 3 hr 15 min

Seven Lakes Drive NY

Explore 11.3 km of trails connecting seven pristine lakes through Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks in the Hudson Valley. Moderate trail of 11.3 km, 380 m of climb.

Dog rules: check the trail page

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Trails near New York City

8 trails shown out of 305
Jaynes Hill, New York trail - hiking in Long Island

A half-day outing takes a little planning.

Think about the way back, the breaks and the parking.

  • Check access

    Opening hours, parking and access conditions can change with the season.

  • Check the weather at the destination

    Changing weather can make some trails harder.

  • Choose your route

    Match the length and the level to your group and the time you have.

No car?

Without a car, an outing takes more planning. Some destinations near New York City may be served by public transit, but none of our trail pages lists it yet.

Check schedules and the last return trip with the transit agency before you go.

See the frequently asked questions

Through the seasons

Spring

Spring in New York City brings mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, making it ideal for exploring Central Park's extensive trail network and the High Line elevated park.

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The weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain showers, so pack layers and waterproof gear. This season offers comfortable hiking conditions before the summer heat arrives, with daylight extending into the evening hours.

Summer

Summer hiking around New York City requires early morning or late evening outings to avoid the intense heat and humidity typical of the region.

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Central Park, Prospect Park, and the Staten Island Greenbelt offer shaded trails that provide relief from urban temperatures. Bring plenty of water, wear light-colored clothing, and consider indoor alternatives during peak heat advisories.

Fall

Fall is the premier season for outdoor activities near New York City, with comfortable temperatures and stunning foliage in parks like Central Park and Van Cortlandt Park.

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The crisp air and colorful leaves create perfect conditions for longer walks and hikes throughout the city's green spaces. Pack layers as temperatures can vary significantly between morning and afternoon, and enjoy extended daylight hours before winter arrives.

Winter

Winter in New York City brings cold temperatures and occasional snow, transforming city parks into peaceful winter wonderlands perfect for cold-weather walking and light hiking.

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Central Park and Riverside Park offer maintained paths that remain accessible during most winter conditions. Dress in warm layers, wear appropriate footwear for potentially icy conditions, and take advantage of shorter daylight hours by planning activities during midday when temperatures are warmest.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I go hiking near New York City?

The page lists 305 trails. The closest is Hudson River Greenway (≈ 3 min drive from downtown), the farthest Wappingers Falls (≈ 1 hr 59 min). Drive times are estimated as the crow flies.

How long does it take to drive to the trails near New York City?

55 trails are within ≈ 30 min of driving, 137 within ≈ 1 hr, and all of them within ≈ 2 hr. These are estimates from downtown.

What are the most popular trails near New York City?

Among the trails on this page, the most viewed on Let's Go Play Outside are Seven Lakes Drive NY, Jaynes Hill, New York and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

How long are the trails near New York City?

297 listings give a length, from 0.3 km (Monksville Reservoir) to 80 km (South Mountain Reservation). The other 8 do not say.

Are there easy hikes near New York City?

Yes: among the trails on this page that give a level, 228 easy, 57 moderate and 4 hard. The closest easy ones: Hudson River Greenway, Beginning of High Line and Amy Park.

Can I hike with my dog near New York City?

47 listings say dogs are allowed and 4 say they are not. For the other 254, the rule is not confirmed: check the trail page before you go.

Good ideas, ready to go.

Free guide: 25 hikes under 2 hours from Montreal

Drive time, distance and level for each one. The ones we go back to ourselves.

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