
Best Hiking Trails Around the World in New York, United States

1. Breakneck Ridge
Breakneck Ridge offers rugged trails with stunning views of the Hudson River. It's known for steep climbs and rock scrambles, making it a favorite among adventurous hikers. You get a rewarding sense of achievement upon reaching the summit.
- Difficulty: Challenging terrain with steep ascents.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable by train from New York City.
- Scenery: Panoramic vistas of mountains and rivers.

2. Harriman State Park
Home to numerous interconnected trails, this park provides varied landscapes including lakes, forests, and rocky ridges. It caters to both beginners and experienced hikers with its choice of easy to strenuous routes. Enjoy peaceful serenity not far from city hustle.
- Trail Variety: Options for all skill levels.
- Wildlife: Opportunities to spot local wildlife.
- Distance: Less than a two-hour drive from NYC.

3. Minnewaska State Park
This park offers scenic vistas of lakes, waterfalls, and dense woodlands. The highlight is the stunning view of cliffs and opportunities for rock climbing. Ideal for those who enjoy hiking with a backdrop of natural beauty.
- Photoshoots: Perfect spots for photography.
- Facilities: Available parking and restrooms.
- Views: Spectacular cliff-top sights.

4. Catskill Mountains
Known for picturesque trails, this area is great for multi-day hiking trips. The diverse landscape includes waterfalls, forests, and mountain peaks. It is perfect for those seeking a taste of wilderness adventure close to the city.
- Lodging: Nearby cabins and camping sites.
- Length: Suitable for long-distance hikes.
- Seasons: Resplendent in every season, especially fall.

5. Storm King Mountain
Offers short yet steep trails with impressive views of the Hudson Valley. The rocky path is great for thrill-seekers who appreciate a challenge. It combines physical exertion with rewarding vistas upon reaching the top.
- Elevation: Sharp altitude gain for short distance.
- History: Rich historical background of the area.
- Rewards: Incredible views at summit.

6. Bear Mountain
Features varied trails suitable for families and seasoned hikers alike. The park also includes a museum, zoo, and lake for a diverse outing experience. Famous for its picturesque views, especially during autumn's foliage season.
- Family-Friendly: Activities for all ages.
- Scenic Drives: Access through scenic roadways.
- Connectivity: Well-marked trails.

7. Mohonk Preserve
Offers a multitude of trails through cliff-top paths and peaceful forests. The dramatic rock formations and stunning crevices make it unique. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy rock climbing the famed Shawangunk Ridge here.
- Rock Formations: Unique and dramatic scenery.
- Eco-friendly: Emphasis on conservation efforts.
- Activities: Popular for rock climbing.

8. Palisades Interstate Park
Boasts trails along cliffs with views over the Hudson River. The park is easily accessible for a quick nature escape. It’s a hiker’s delight offering terrain that ranges from easy paths to more challenging climbs.
- Proximity: Close to Manhattan.
- Paths: Diverse from easy to advanced.
- River Views: Stunning cliffside panorama.

9. Shawangunk Ridge
Known for its rugged beauty and expansive rock landscapes. The trails offer a wild getaway with unique dry-wooded forests and rare plants. It is a favorite spot for those seeking both leisurely walks and vigorous hikes.
- Flora: Rare and unique plant species.
- Serenity: Lesser-known, less crowded trails.
- Varied Terrain: From smooth paths to rocky climbs.

10. Blackhead Mountain Range
Part of the Catskills, offering peaceful and relatively untouched nature. It features challenging terrain for the enthusiastic hiker. One can expect rewarding vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys at each peak.
- Intensity: Ideal for experienced hikers.
- Remote: Fewer people, more wildlife encounters.
- Peaks: Multiple summits with panoramic views.

11. Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Features well-maintained trails through classic landscapes. The trails allow for a relaxing hike, perfect for bird watching and nature photography. It's known for its historic landscape, characterized by the stunning stone bridges.
- Accessibility: Well-marked, easy trails.
- Historical: Recognized as part of Rockefeller heritage.
- Nature Walk: Suitable for leisure hikes.

12. North-South Lake
Provides trails with easy access to scenic lakes and neighboring peaks. Ideal for a family outing with gentle terrain suitable for children. The area is rich in history and offers numerous picnic spots.
- Family Activity: Safe and accessible trails.
- Picnicking: Facilities available for day use.
- Water Views: Beautiful lake scenery.

13. Taconic State Park
Offers a mix of trails with beautiful vistas year-round. The highlight is the Bash Bish Falls, Massachusetts’ highest single-drop waterfall, just across the state line. This park is great for hiking paired with camping, especially in summer.
- Waterfall: Stunning bash Bish Falls nearby.
- Camping: Facilities for overnight stays.
- Scenic Routes: Routes through diverse landscapes.

14. Letchworth State Park
Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," the park features dramatic waterfalls and cliffs. The trails accommodate all skill levels and offer some of the best nature scenes in New York. It’s perfect for visitors looking to combine hiking with sightseeing.
- Attractions: Impressive waterfalls to see.
- Versatility: Trails for different hiking abilities.
- Comparisons: Nicknamed for grandeur and beauty.

15. Mount Marcy
The highest peak in New York, it provides a challenging trail for serious hikers. The views from the summit extend across peaks and even into Canada on clear days. Ideal for those who seek a rigorous trek with rewarding vistas.
- Difficulty: Strenuous and demanding hike.
- Views: Far-reaching summit views.
- Achievement: Climbing New York’s highest point.

16. Hunter Mountain
Offers diverse trails with scenic viewpoints, especially popular during the fall foliage season. It’s famous for its zip-lining and winter skiing activities, adding to its appeal. The trails serve hiking enthusiasts looking for a colorful trek.
- Adventure: Also known for ziplining.
- Winter Sports: Popular ski destination.
- Seasonal Beauty: Stunning fall colors.

17. Watkins Glen State Park
Known for its gorge trails that wind beneath and through waterfalls. The park's geological formations are a sight to behold and perfect for photographers. It’s an easy-to-moderate hike that offers a fantastic visual journey.
- Geological Wonders: Unique gorge landscapes.
- Accessibility: Moderate trail suitable for all ages.
- Water Features: Breathtaking waterfalls.

18. Cold Spring
Near the Hudson Highlands State Park, it provides trails with panoramic views of the river. The quaint town nearby makes it an excellent mix of shopping and hiking. Known for paths leading to historic ruins and spectacular vistas.
- Historic Ruins: Explore old structures on trails.
- Village Amenities: Dining and shopping post-hike.
- River Views: Overlooks of scenic Hudson River.

19. John Boyd Thacher State Park
Offers trails set on limestone cliffs with stunning views over the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys. The park is known for its fossils and striking rock formations. It’s perfect for those interested in geology along with hiking.
- Fossil Paths: Discover relics from ancient seas.
- Rock Formations: Witness dramatic cliff edges.
- Horizon Views: Broad vistas across valleys.

20. Adirondacks
Known for its vast wilderness and over 2,000 miles of trails, including options for paddling and camping. It’s home to the famous "46 High Peaks" challenge for ambitious hikers. Ideal for those pursuing extended hikes into the heart of nature.
- Challenges: Complete the 46 High Peaks.
- Campsites: Numerous camping opportunities.
- Water Trails: Kayaking paths available too.