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

Long Island • New York

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.

8 km
Distance
2h15
Duration
52 m
Elevation
Difficulty
Easy
Max altitude
122 m
Dogs
Allowed
Admission
9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Recommended for :
Beginners

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

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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.

Free 1 pages

The Essential Hiking Checklist

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

Get your free hiking checklist

Recommended gear for this trail

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LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
See price
Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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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)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
Fees, tickets and reservations: West Hills County Park
What to bring?

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Affiliate links — LGPO may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Gear
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
Dogs allowed
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

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FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
West Hills County Park is rated easy.
The elevation gain of West Hills County Park is 52 m.
The summit of West Hills County Park is at 122 m.
Allow about 2h15 for West Hills County Park (8 km).
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
Tickets, reservations and access conditions are managed by West Hills County Park: that is where the information is kept current.
Yes, dogs are allowed at West Hills County Park.
No, West Hills County Park has no visitor centre on site.
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.
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Update : October 2026