Hiking West Hills County Park - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
--°C
Loading...
See forecast →

Hiking in West Hills County Park: trails, map and practical info

Long Island • New York

4.5 Appreciated by 10 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 21/05/2026
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
8 km
Elevation
52 ft
Duration
2h15
Max altitude
122 ft

Explore 8 km of easy trails across Long Island's highest point at West Hills County Park near Huntington. This 2h15 hike features the historic Walt Whitman Trail through lush woodlands, rare wildflowers, and panoramic views from Jayne's Hill—perfect for families and nature photographers.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore West Hills County Park? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

Oh no! We don't have any photos 😢

This trail hasn't been captured yet. Be the first to share your adventure!

Trail description

Discover the Natural Beauty of West Hills County Park on Long Island

Welcome to west hills county park, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Long Island, perfect for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature's tranquility. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, this park offers something for everyone.

Explore Scenic Trails

west hills county park boasts a variety of trails that cater to all skill levels. The most notable is the Walt Whitman Trail, named after the famous poet who once roamed these very hills. This trail takes you on a journey through lush woodlands and up to Jayne’s Hill, the highest point on Long Island, offering breathtaking panoramic views that are worth every step. Along your hike, you might encounter the rare Moccasin Flower, adding a splash of color to your adventure.

Wildlife and Nature

As you wander through the park's diverse landscapes, keep an eye out for local wildlife. From deer gracefully moving through the trees to vibrant bird species flitting about, West Hills is teeming with life. The park's rich biodiversity makes it a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. Don't miss exploring Reservoir Road in Suffolk County, which provides additional scenic routes and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Family-Friendly Activities

west hills county park isn't just for avid hikers; it's also a fantastic spot for families. With picnic areas scattered throughout the park, it's easy to find a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Kids will love exploring the open spaces and discovering the wonders of the great outdoors.

Equestrian Adventures

For those who prefer horseback riding, West Hills offers equestrian trails that provide a unique way to experience the park's beauty. Bring your own horse or rent one from nearby stables to embark on an unforgettable ride through scenic paths.

Plan Your Visit

Located conveniently in Huntington near Melville, west hills county park is easily accessible from various parts of Long Island. Open year-round from sunrise to sunset, it invites visitors to explore its natural splendor in every season. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water as you set out on your adventure.

Whether you're seeking solitude among towering trees or an active day with family and friends, west hills county park is your gateway to experiencing Long Island's natural charm. So lace up your hiking boots and discover why this serene sanctuary is beloved by locals and visitors alike! Embrace the spirit of Paumanok as you traverse these historic lands.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Sweet Hollow Rd, Huntington Station, NY 11747, USA
GPS coordinates
40.8052661, -73.4290981
Phone
(631) 854-4423

Starting Point

The easiest way to get to the start of the trails at the west hills county park in New York is to take the Metro-North Railroad to the Croton-Harmon station. From there, you can take a taxi or walk to the park.

When?

Opening hours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PMTuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PMWednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PMThursday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PMFriday: ClosedSaturday: ClosedSunday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
  • Hiking shoes Essential
  • Layered clothing Essential
  • Rain jacket Essential
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
40.8052661, -73.4290981
Center
(631) 854-4423

Hikers' opinions

4.5
10 Reviews
D
David
Mar 14, 2026
Excellent local hiking spot that offers a peaceful retreat without traveling far from home. The 8 kilometer distance is perfect for a morning or afternoon adventure. Trail conditions are consistently good and the route provides a nice variety of forest scenery. Entry fees are reasonable considering the quality of trail maintenance and facilities available.
J
Jennifer
Jan 8, 2026
Absolutely loved this peaceful retreat from the busy Long Island lifestyle! The trail network offers a perfect easy hike that took exactly 2 hours and 15 minutes as expected. Beautiful mature trees provide excellent shade during summer months, and the gentle 52-meter elevation gain makes it suitable for beginners. While the parking and entrance fees are a bit steep, the tranquil forest atmosphere and well-maintained facilities justify the cost for a quality outdoor experience.
J
Jennifer
Jan 8, 2026
Perfect winter hike when other trails are too icy or muddy. The park maintains the trails well year-round and the easy difficulty level makes it accessible for most fitness levels. Took exactly the estimated time of 2 hours and 15 minutes. Would have been nice to bring our dog but pets aren't allowed unfortunately.
L
Lisa
Dec 19, 2025
Enjoyed a lovely winter walk through this well-preserved natural area that offers a nice escape into nature. The easy difficulty level with gentle terrain made for a relaxing 2+ hour adventure perfect for weekend recreation. Trail surfaces were in good condition despite recent weather, and the 8km loop provided adequate distance for a satisfying workout. Wish the county would reconsider the parking and admission fees as they create a barrier for regular visitors.
S
Sarah
Nov 22, 2025
Had a wonderful morning exploring this park with well-maintained trails that wind through beautiful wooded areas. The 8km loop took us about 2 hours and 15 minutes at a comfortable pace, perfect for families looking for an easy outdoor adventure. The gentle terrain with minimal elevation gain made it accessible for hikers of all fitness levels. Only downside was having to pay for both parking and park admission, but the peaceful forest setting made it worthwhile.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
52.00
122.00
Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PMTuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PMWednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PMThursday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PMFriday: ClosedSaturday: ClosedSunday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
2h15
No
No
Yes, West Hills County Park is rated as Easy difficulty, making it an excellent choice for beginners and families. The 8 km trail with only 52 m of elevation gain is accessible to most fitness levels and can be completed in approximately 2h15.
Didn't find your answer?
Free 1 pages

The Essential Hiking Checklist

Everything you need for your next hike. Bilingual, printable, 1 page.

Download the free checklist
Top 10 best hiking in Long Island
Our ranking based on hiker reviews

Hiking near New York City

0 trails to explore ~50 km away

View trails
Did you spot an error?

We work hard to provide the most up-to-date and error-free data possible. If something seems incorrect, let us know!

Update : June 2026