Looking to swap skyscrapers for sweeping vistas? While New York City is packed with world-class parks, sometimes you just need a full escape into nature. Whether you want to explore mountain ridges, tranquil lakesides, or dense woodlands, these hiking trails near NYC provide exactly that. The best part? Most of them are accessible by public transit, so you don’t even need a car to get out and explore.
Ice Caves and Verkeerderkill Falls Trail
Located in Sam’s Point Preserve in the Shawangunk Mountains, this 7-mile trail is one of the most unique hikes near NYC. Along the way, you’ll walk through narrow passages of the famous Ice Caves, pass the tallest waterfall in the region, Verkeerderkill Falls, and enjoy panoramic views from Sam’s Point.
The hike is considered easy, making it perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed adventure. While the caves are typically closed in winter and melt by late summer, they remain cool and atmospheric throughout the year.
How to get there:
Take the Short Line bus to Ellenville, then a short cab ride to Sam’s Point Preserve.
Time: 4.5 hours
Level: Easy
Parking: $10 at 400 Sams Point Rd, Cragsmoor, NY
Malouf’s Mountain Campground
If you’re in for a multi-day adventure, head to Malouf’s Mountain near Beacon. After an 80-minute train ride from Grand Central to Beacon, you can hike or shuttle to a fully equipped backcountry-style campground. No need to carry gear. They provide tents, meals, and all essentials.
From the base camp, hikers can explore several trails featuring ruins, river views, and remnants of old railroads.
Time: 30 minutes to 5 hours
Level: Easy
Parking: Ridge Trail, Beacon, NY
Stairway to Heaven Trail
This picturesque trail in Vernon, New Jersey lives up to its name. A favorite among day-trippers, it boasts wildflower meadows, cow pastures, and sweeping summit views. The full 7.3-mile hike is challenging but rewarding, though a shorter 2.5-mile version is also available.
How to get there:
Take NJ Transit Bus 196 or 197 to Warwick, then cab to the trailhead.
Time: 3 hours
Level: Easy to Hard
Parking: 443 Vernon Warwick Rd, Vernon Township, NJ
Bull Hill (Mount Taurus)
Not far from Breakneck Ridge but far less crowded, Bull Hill provides an incredible hike with a rewarding Hudson Valley view. With a 1,350-foot elevation gain, it’s not for the faint-hearted. However, there’s an optional loop at Little Stony Point across the road if you’re up for more exploring.
How to get there:
Take the Hudson Line to Cold Spring and walk to the trailhead.
Time: 3 hours
Level: Moderate to Hard
Parking: 3011 NY-9D, Cold Spring, NY
Storm King State Park
For those seeking raw, unfiltered nature, Storm King is perfect. Multiple trails offer views of the Catskills and Hudson Valley. The rocky terrain is invigorating and the scenery changes with elevation, from forests to cliffside views.
Time: 3 hours
Level: Moderate
Parking: Mountain Road, Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY
Mount Beacon Yellow Trail
A short but steep 2.5-mile hike up Mount Beacon gives you city-skirting views without the usual crowd. Great for catching sunsets, this trail starts from a staircase and climbs to fire tower ruins and scenic overlooks.
How to get there:
Metro-North to Beacon, then a short ride or walk to the trailhead.
Time: 90 minutes
Level: Moderate to Hard
Parking: 788 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY
Lake Skenonto Loop
Located near Tuxedo Station, this 8-mile loop is great for intermediate hikers. After climbing Parker Cabin Mountain, stop for lunch on a rocky perch with lake views. Then follow the trail around Lake Skenonto and through peaceful wetlands.
Time: 5–6 hours
Level: Easy to Moderate
Parking: Tuxedo Station
Arden Point and Glenclyffe
For a quick escape that doesn’t require a car, this 3.7-mile loop in Garrison is ideal. The trail starts right at the train station and meanders through historic roads and forest paths, offering Hudson River views along the way.
Time: 2–3 hours
Level: Easy
Parking: 96 Lower Station Rd, Garrison, NY
Blue Mountain Reservation Loop
Starting near the Peekskill Metro North stop, this 12-mile loop is best tackled by those ready for a full-day challenge. With scenic overlooks and serene pond-side sections, it’s the perfect prelude to a celebratory beer at Peekskill Brewery on your return.
Time: 3–4 hours
Level: Easy to Moderate
Parking: Near Peekskill Metro-North
Anthony’s Nose
For an Appalachian Trail sampler, hike up to Anthony’s Nose. After climbing a rocky staircase, the trail flattens and leads to sweeping views of Bear Mountain Bridge and the Hudson River. It’s a short hike with a big payoff.
How to get there:
Take Metro-North to Manitou and walk to the trailhead.
Time: 2–3 hours
Level: Moderate
Parking: 94 S Mountain Pass, Garrison, NY
Final Thoughts
No matter your skill level or hiking goals, the NYC area offers something for everyone. These trails are not just outdoor escapes. They’re experiences that connect you to nature, challenge your endurance, and let you discover new sides of New York’s surrounding landscapes. Grab your boots, check the weather, and set out on a scenic adventure that’s just a train or bus ride away.
