Day Trips from New York
← All New York day tripsDay Trips from New York: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of New York, NY. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near New York
Mohonk Preserve
Gardiner, NY 12525
Just 1 hr 47 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 2,142 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
High Rocks Vista
Pipersville, PA 18947
Just 1 hr 34 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 573 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Maurice River Bluffs Preserve
Millville, NJ 08332
Just 2 hrs 18 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 681 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sloan Gorge Preserve | Woodstock Land Conservancy
Woodstock, NY 12498
Just 2 hrs 5 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 106 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Just 51 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 2,432 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Kerhonkson, NY 12446
Just 1 hr 51 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 5,489 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Verkeerder Kill Falls Trailhead
Cragsmoor, NY 12420
Just 1 hr 50 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 437 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Bushkill, PA 18324
Just 1 hr 21 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 6,739 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Big Pocono State Park
Tannersville, PA 18372
Just 1 hr 43 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 2,290 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sourland Mountain Preserve
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
Just 1 hr 12 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 1,508 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Falling Waters Preserve
Saugerties, NY 12477
Just 2 hrs 2 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 477 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sterling Forest State Park
Tuxedo Park, NY 10987
Just 1 hr 6 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 1,249 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from New York
What are the best hiking trails near New York, NY?
The best hikes near New York range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near New York?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near New York offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from New York?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near New York are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near New York?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near New York. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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