Hiking in Belmont Lake State Park: trails, map and practical info

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Belmont Lake State Park sits on 463 acres in North Babylon, offering one of Long Island's most accessible escapes into nature. Just off Southern State Parkway Exit 38, this park centers around a peaceful lake surrounded by diverse habitats that make every visit feel like a discovery. The park's crown jewel is the loop trail that circles Belmont Lake, providing hikers with constantly changing scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year.

The main loop trail takes most visitors between 1.5 to 2 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, though you'll likely want to stop frequently for photos or wildlife watching. The path alternates between shaded woodland sections and open areas along the shoreline, giving hikers a varied experience without any significant elevation changes. Early morning and late afternoon visits offer the best chances to spot white-tailed deer grazing near the water's edge or the diverse bird species that call this area home.