New York-hiking-areas

New York’s Best Hiking Spots

The Empire State offers a diverse range of hiking trails for all skill levels. From the rugged Adirondack Mountains to the scenic Hudson Valley, here are some of the best hiking areas in New York:

1. Adirondacks

  • Location: North-Central New York
  • Trails: Over 2,000 miles of marked trails, including the famous High Falls Gorge and Ausable Club trail.
  • Highlights: Scenic vistas, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Hike the High Peaks Wilderness

  • Distance: 25.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Time: 2-3 days

Explore the highest peaks in New York State on this challenging hike that takes you through a variety of terrain.

2. Letchworth State Park

  • Location: Western New York
  • Trails: Over 70 miles of trails, including the Gorge Trail and Inspiration Point.
  • Highlights: Hike alongside waterfalls, explore the scenic gorge, and enjoy stunning views from Inspiration Point.

Gorge Trail

  • Distance: 6.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Time: 3-4 hours

This popular trail takes you through a beautiful valley and along the shores of Cayuga Lake.

3. Hudson Highlands State Park

  • Location: Southeastern New York
  • Trails: Over 50 miles of trails, including the Breakneck Ridge Trail and the Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail.
  • Highlights: Scenic views of the Hudson River, historic sites, and diverse wildlife.

Breakneck Ridge

  • Distance: 4.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Time: 2-3 hours

This steep and rocky trail offers stunning views of the Hudson Valley.

4. Taughannock Falls State Park

  • Location: Central New York
  • Trails: Over 20 miles of trails, including the Gorge Trail and Taughannock Falls Trail.
  • Highlights: Hike to the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, explore the scenic gorge.

Gorge Trail

  • Distance: 1.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Time: 45 minutes

This short but scenic trail takes you through a beautiful valley and alongside Taughannock Falls.

5. Black Mountain Forest Preserve

  • Location: Central New York
  • Trails: Over 20 miles of trails, including the Black Mountain Trail and the Forest Preserve Loop.
  • Highlights: Hike to the summit of Black Mountain for panoramic views, explore the scenic forest preserve.

Black Mountain Trail

  • Distance: 4.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Time: 2-3 hours

This challenging trail takes you through a variety of terrain and offers stunning views from the summit.