Finding good hiking trails close to New York City can be a challenge, especially if you want a quick escape into nature without traveling far. I have explored many options and found that there are several trails offering beautiful views and different levels of difficulty just a short trip from the city.
The best hiking trails near New York City provide a mix of natural scenery, easy access, and a chance to unwind outdoors without needing a long journey. Whether you want a short walk or a more challenging hike, these trails make it possible to enjoy nature even with a busy city life.
1) Marine Park Salt Marsh Nature Trail
When I visited Marine Park Salt Marsh Nature Trail, I was impressed by the wide variety of wildlife in the area. The wetlands and grasslands spread across the park offer a peaceful environment where you can spot birds, turtles, and fish. Walking along the trail, I often saw shore birds resting on the mudflats, which was a nice surprise.
The Salt Marsh Nature Center is a highlight. From the overlook, you can see both sides of Gerritsen Creek and White Island. During my visit, there was a free monocular scope set up, which made spotting the wildlife easier. I also learned about the old tide-powered mill pilings in the creek, a piece of history dating back to 1645.
I enjoyed stopping at the Tidal Marsh Bridge Lookout and the Grassland Lookout. The views of the restored wetlands and grasslands were calm and scenic. The osprey nest lookout was interesting too. I got to observe ospreys nesting, which they do here every summer.
The park feels like a natural spot right in Brooklyn, offering easy access to nature. The different lookouts let you enjoy various parts of the marsh and waterfront. It’s a good place for anyone who likes birdwatching or wants a quiet hike.
Rating: 4.6 (707 reviews)
Location: Marine Park Salt Marsh Nature Center, Brooklyn, NY
Contact: (718) 421-2021
Website: Visit Website
2) The Ravine (Waterfall)
I found The Ravine tucked away in Central Park, a quiet spot full of tall trees and waterfalls. The main feature is the Loch, a narrow waterway with three small waterfalls. Walking along the paths, I could often hear the sound of water covering up city noises.
The trees are very tall and thick, which makes the place feel like a natural forest. It’s easy to forget you are still in New York City. I saw people quietly birdwatching and enjoying the calm atmosphere, which made the whole area feel peaceful.
The paths along the water let you get close to the edge, and from bridges and stone arches, you get nice views of the water and cascading falls. It’s clear the area was carefully designed to look natural, with plants and stone features blending into the valley.
This place is great when you want to enjoy nature without leaving the city. The mix of trees, water, and peaceful sounds made it a nice break from the busy streets nearby.
Rating: 4.7 (110 reviews)
Location: E 103rd St, New York, NY 10026
Contact: (212) 310-6600
Website: Visit Website
3) Forest Park Hiking Trails
When I visited Forest Park Hiking Trails, I found it to be a peaceful spot not far from the city. The trails are well-kept and easy to follow, making it a great place for a relaxed hike. The area is full of trees and greenery, which makes it feel like a quiet escape.
The paths vary in length, so you can choose a short walk or a longer hike depending on your mood. I enjoyed the mix of shaded areas and open spaces. It was easy to find spots to sit and rest or just enjoy the natural surroundings.
You’ll find that this place isn’t crowded, even on weekends. It’s perfect if you want some time outdoors without dealing with busy trails. The natural setting is calm, and I saw a few birds and small animals during my hike.
This park worked well for me as a quick getaway from city noise. It’s accessible and offers a nice balance between nature and convenience.
Rating: 4.9 (53 reviews)
Location: Richmond Hill, NY 11418
4) Bronx Park
When I visited Bronx Park, I was surprised by how peaceful the Bronx River Forest trails felt. Walking along the river, I saw many native trees like silver maples and tulip poplars. The area feels like a quiet natural spot right inside the busy city.
One of my favorite places was Burke Bridge. From there, I spotted birds like red-tailed hawks and wood ducks. The bridge gave a nice view of the river, and I enjoyed watching the wildlife around me.
I also took some time at the River Lookout. It offers a good view of the floodplain forest, letting me appreciate the clean river and quiet nature. Nearby, I saw the man-made Bronx River Island, which adds to the park’s unique feel.
The trails are unpaved but easy to walk. The peaceful river and green forest made this a great spot for a short hike or a relaxing stroll.
Rating: 4.7 (3523 reviews)
Location: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
Contact: (718) 430-4665
Website: Visit Website
5) Forest Park
When I visited Forest Park, I found it to be a large, quiet space with lots of trees and small hills. The trails in the eastern part are great for hiking, and I saw people riding horses on the bridle paths. It felt peaceful and natural, away from the busy city.
Walking west in the park, the atmosphere changed. There were softball fields, tennis courts, and even a golf course. The golf course looked tough but well-kept. I also noticed a big bandshell where free concerts happen during warmer months. It seemed like a good spot for both sports and relaxation.
The mix of open areas and wooded paths gave the park a fresh feel. I enjoyed just sitting on a bench to watch people play sports or walk their dogs. It’s a versatile park that offers more than just hiking, and it felt well-used by locals.
Rating: 4.6 (7191 reviews)
Location: Myrtle Avenue, Woodhaven, NY
Contact: (718) 235-0815
Website: Visit Website
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve found that some hiking spots near New York City offer easy train access, while others shine because of their waterfalls or scenic views. Many trails don’t require a car to reach, and some are perfect for a quick day trip. Also, certain trails upstate are best for autumn colors.
What are the top-rated hiking destinations accessible by train from NYC?
You can reach several popular hikes by train. Breakneck Ridge and Anthony’s Nose are both accessible via Metro-North trains. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail is another good option that you can get to without a car.
Which hiking trails near NYC feature the most scenic waterfalls?
The Ravine trail is well known for its beautiful waterfall. Verkeerderkill Falls, a bit farther out, also offers stunning waterfall views. These spots are excellent for those who enjoy nature’s water features on their hike.
How can one reach great hiking spots near NYC without a car?
Several trails are reachable by public transit. For example, Forest Park in Queens is accessible by subway and buses. Staten Island parks are another option reachable via ferry and bus, so you don’t need a car to explore.
What are the best upstate New York trails for an autumn hiking experience?
Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus) and other trails in the Hudson Valley offer vibrant fall foliage. The region’s trails provide classic autumn views with colorful trees and crisp air.
Can you recommend some hiking trails within a short distance of New York City for a day trip?
Marine Park Salt Marsh Nature Trail is good for a short day hike. Bronx Park and the John Muir Trail in Van Cortlandt Park are also nearby options that don’t require much travel time.
What mountains offer the best hiking experiences in close proximity to New York City?
Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus) and Breakneck Ridge are two mountains near NYC known for their rewarding hikes. They offer challenging climbs and great viewpoints without traveling far from the city. For more trail ideas, see best hikes near NYC.
