20 Popular New York Hiking Trails

New York, known for its iconic cityscape, is also home to diverse landscapes and hiking trails. While the Big Apple draws crowds, there's a wealth of natural wonders outside the city. Join us as we traverse through New York's 20 more popular hiking trails, where lush forests, majestic mountains, and cascading waterfalls await the avid adventurer.

1. BREAKNECK RIDGE TRAIL (HUDSON HIGHLANDS SP)

One of the most famous and challenging day hikes in New York, Breakneck Ridge offers steep rock scrambles and breathtaking Hudson River views. The trail’s exposed ridgeline provides panoramic vistas at nearly every turn. It’s a rite of passage for adventurous hikers in the region. Clear days reveal the Catskills to the northwest and the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge below.

2. CASCADE MOUNTAIN TRAIL (ADIRONDACK HIGH PEAKS REGION)

This popular route offers one of the easiest climbs among the Adirondack High Peaks. The 4.8-mile round trip features rocky terrain, alpine forest, and an incredible summit view. It’s often the first “High Peak” hikers attempt. The open summit provides a sweeping panorama of the surrounding wilderness.

3. WATKINS GLEN GORGE TRAIL (WATKINS GLEN SP)

This world-famous gorge trail winds past 19 waterfalls and through sculpted shale walls. Stone bridges and tunnels add charm to the already magical scenery. It’s one of the most photogenic trails in the entire Northeast. Summer mornings are the best time to experience it before crowds arrive.

4. LETCHWORTH GORGE TRAIL (LETCHWORTH SP)

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this trail follows the Genesee River through towering cliffs and waterfalls. Hikers enjoy overlooks of the park’s three major falls. The route offers both short and long loop options. Autumn brings vibrant foliage that lights up the canyon walls.

5. BUTTERMILK FALLS GORGE TRAIL (BUTTERMILK FALLS SP)

This short but dramatic hike follows a cascading creek past several waterfalls. The stone stairways make the route both accessible and scenic. Shady woodlands and misty spray provide a refreshing summer escape. It’s a perfect introduction to the beauty of the Finger Lakes region.

6. BEAR MOUNTAIN LOOP TRAIL (BEAR MOUNTAIN SP)

This historic trail climbs to an overlook with sweeping views of the Hudson River and Highlands. Stone steps, forested paths, and scenic towers make it a well-rounded adventure. The hike is popular year-round for its accessibility and rewards. On clear days, you can spot Manhattan’s skyline in the distance.

7. TACONIC CREST TRAIL (TACONIC RANGE)

Running along the Massachusetts border, this long-distance ridge trail offers quiet forests and broad mountain views. It passes through several SF areas and summits multiple peaks. The varied terrain makes each section feel unique. It’s ideal for backpackers seeking solitude and elevation.

8. DEVIL’S PATH TRAIL (CATSKILL FOREST PRESERVE)

Revered as one of the toughest hikes in the East, this route tackles six major peaks across 24 miles. It’s steep, rocky, and relentlessly beautiful. Experienced hikers come for the challenge and the views. The Devil’s Path is a true Catskills classic for those seeking a test of endurance.

9. INDIAN HEAD TRAIL (ADIRONDACKS)

This scenic loop leads to one of New York’s most photographed overlooks above Lower Ausable Lake. The viewpoint’s dramatic cliffs and turquoise water create postcard-perfect scenery. The hike combines moderate climbs with rewarding vistas. Fall color season makes this trail truly unforgettable.

10. ENFIELD GLEN TRAIL (ROBERT TREMAN SP)

This trail passes through a lush gorge filled with waterfalls and stone bridges. The highlight is Lucifer Falls, plunging over 100 feet into a deep canyon. The path offers a mix of stairs, bridges, and shady woodland. It’s a favorite among photographers and families alike.

11. BLUE MOUNTAIN TRAIL (ADIRONDACKS)

This moderate trail climbs through forest to a fire tower with panoramic mountain views. It’s one of the most accessible Adirondack peaks. The summit view stretches across miles of lakes and wilderness. A sunrise or sunset hike here is pure magic.

12. KATERSKILL FALLS TRAIL (CATSKILL SF)

One of New York’s most iconic waterfalls, Kaaterskill Falls drops over 260 feet in two tiers. The short trail leads to several viewpoints, including a dramatic base perspective. It’s steep but rewarding, with safety railings and new access paths. The sound of rushing water echoes through the gorge.

13. MINNEWASKA LOOP TRAIL (MINNEWASKA SP PRESERVE)

This scenic loop circles Lake Minnewaska atop the Shawangunk Ridge. It offers waterfalls, cliffs, and panoramic Hudson Valley views. The trail is well-marked and great for all skill levels. Wild blueberries and laurel bloom along the path in summer.

14. ETERNAL FLAME FALLS TRAIL (CHESTNUT RIDGE COUNTY PARK)

This short forest hike leads to a small waterfall with a rare natural gas flame burning behind it. The sight of fire glowing through water is unforgettable. It’s a unique geological phenomenon found in only a few places on Earth. The trail is best visited after rainfall when the falls flow strongest.

15. HADLEY MOUNTAIN TRAIL (ADIRONDACKS)

This short, steep climb leads to a restored fire tower with incredible views of the southern Adirondacks. The trail is rocky but well-traveled and family-friendly. On clear days, you can see Great Sacandaga Lake shimmering below. It’s a perfect introduction to mountain hiking in New York.

16. GORGE TRAIL (TAUGHANNOCK FALLS SP)

This easy, flat trail leads to one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies. The gorge walls rise nearly 400 feet on either side. It’s ideal for families or anyone seeking a relaxing, scenic walk. Winter ice formations create a completely different kind of beauty here.

17. WHITEFACE LANDING TRAIL (ADIRONDACKS)

This forested trail leads to a peaceful lakeside destination on Lake Placid. The route is moderate and perfect for a half-day adventure. It’s popular with locals for swimming, picnicking, and quiet reflection. The views of Whiteface Mountain across the water are stunning.

18. MOHONK LABYRINTH AND LEMON SQUEEZE (MOHONK PRESERVE)

This adventurous rock scramble weaves through narrow crevices and ladders to a summit tower. The route is unique and playful, blending hiking with light climbing. The panoramic view from Sky Top Tower is worth the effort. It’s one of the most memorable day hikes in the Shawangunks.

19. GOODNOW MOUNTAIN TRAIL (ADIRONDACKS)

A moderate trail that climbs steadily through forest to a restored fire tower. From the top, hikers see dozens of surrounding peaks. Interpretive signs tell the story of early forest rangers. It’s a quiet and rewarding summit for all skill levels.

20. JAY MOUNTAIN TRAIL (ADIRONDACKS)

This high ridgeline trail offers a long, scenic traverse with constant mountain views. It’s less crowded than nearby peaks but equally dramatic. The open rock ridges make it a photographer’s favorite. In fall, the forest below explodes with color across the valleys.

New York's hiking trails unveil a tapestry of diverse landscapes, from the Hudson Valley to the Adirondacks. Whether you're seeking waterfalls, panoramic vistas, or challenging ascents, the Empire State offers a trail for every hiker. Lace up your boots, embrace the spirit of adventure, and discover the breathtaking beauty that makes New York a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.