119 1 Day Treks to Explore in New York

Buffalo Harbor State Park is a premier waterfront destination in Western New York. Located on the banks of the Buffalo River near downtown Buffalo, the park offers spectacular views of Lake Erie and a unique mix of recreational facilities. Highlights include a boardwalk, fishing pier, boat launch, playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails. Visitors can also explore the park’s wetlands, nature center, and shoreline beach.

Bull Hill, also known as Mount Taurus, is a majestic peak situated in Putnam County, New York. As part of the Hudson Highlands, this iconic mountain offers hikers and nature enthusiasts a thrilling outdoor experience with its challenging trails, scenic beauty, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Canadaway Creek is home to an abundance of wildlife, including fish, birds, and even beavers. Whether you're an experienced angler or just looking for a peaceful spot to relax, Canadaway Creek has something for everyone. The water is crystal clear and the surrounding forest is breathtaking. Plus, the locals around here are some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. Trust me, you won't regret taking a trip to Canadaway Creek.

Captree State Park, located in Suffolk County, Babylon, New York, is a picturesque and popular state park that offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, stunning coastal views, and opportunities to connect with nature. Situated on the southern shore of Long Island, the park's location along the Great South Bay and access to the Atlantic Ocean make it a favored destination for fishing enthusiasts, boaters, and beachgoers.

Catamount Mountain is a prominent peak located in St. Lawrence County, New York, within the Adirondack Park. Rising to an elevation of approximately 3,168 feet, Catamount Mountain is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a challenging and rewarding trek.The mountain is known for its rugged and steep hiking trail, making it a favorite among more experienced hikers and those seeking a bit of adventure.

The Catharine Valley Trail, located in Schuyler County, New York, is a picturesque and serene recreational trail that offers visitors a delightful outdoor experience. Stretching approximately 12 miles, this multi-use trail winds through the beautiful countryside and woodlands of the Finger Lakes region.Named after the Catharine Valley, which is renowned for its natural beauty and rich history, the trail provides opportunities for walking, jogging, cycling, and horseback riding.

Catskill Animal Sanctuary is a non-profit organization located in Ulster County, New York, dedicated to rescuing and providing a safe haven for farm animals in need. It serves as a sanctuary and educational center, promoting compassion, ethical treatment, and a cruelty-free lifestyle.The sanctuary was founded in 2001 and has since become one of the leading farm animal sanctuaries in the United States. It provides a loving home for a diverse range of farm animals.

Chimney Bluffs State Park is a unique and breathtaking natural wonder situated on the southern shore of Lake Ontario, this park is renowned for its dramatic and towering geological formations known as the "chimney bluffs."The park's main attraction is the series of towering cliffs that line the lake's edge, shaped over thousands of years by wind and water erosion. The unique formations resemble chimneys or spires, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly landscape.

Chittenango Falls State Park, is a scenic and picturesque natural attraction known for its stunning waterfall and outdoor recreational opportunities. The park spans over 193 acres and offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.The main highlight of Chittenango Falls State Park is the magnificent Chittenango Falls. The waterfall cascades 167 feet down a rocky gorge, creating a breathtaking sight and a popular spot for photography and nature appreciation.

Christman Sanctuary, located in Schenectady County, New York, is a serene and picturesque nature preserve that offers visitors a tranquil escape into the natural beauty of the region. This sanctuary, managed by the Nature Conservancy, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers.Covering approximately 120 acres, Christman Sanctuary boasts diverse ecosystems, including woodlands, wetlands, and a pristine pond.

Clark Reservation State Park is a beautiful natural area, renowned for its unique geological features, including a glacially-carved limestone cliff and a meromictic lake, making it an exceptional and educational destination.The park offers visitors various opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. Hiking trails wind through the park, allowing visitors to discover diverse flora and fauna, as well as rare geological formations.

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve is a unique and ecologically significant park located on Staten Island. Covering over 260 acres, the park is characterized by its diverse habitats, including wetlands, ponds, woodlands, and meadows, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the midst of urban surroundings.The park's name comes from the historic clay pits that were once mined in the area, adding to its cultural and geological significance.

Connetquot River State Park Preserve, located in Suffolk County, Oakdale, New York, is a scenic and expansive state park that offers visitors a tranquil and immersive outdoor experience. Situated along the Connetquot River, the park's natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and recreational opportunities make it a favored destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, anglers, and birdwatchers.

Dewolf Point State Park is a 13-acre state park on Wellesley Island in the St. Lawrence River. The park is situated within the Town of Orleans in Jefferson County, New York. The park was established in 1898 as part of the St. Lawrence Reservation.One of the main attractions of DeWolf Point State Park is its access to Lake Ontario. The park offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking along the sandy beach area.

Dix Mountain is a beautiful mountain located in Essex County of upstate New York. It is part of the Adirondack Park and stands at 4867 feet, making it the highest peak in Essex County. The mountain has stunning views, hiking trails, camping sites, and plenty of other outdoor activities that make it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike. The mountain is named after doctor and explorer Ebenezer Dix, who was the first to climb the peak in 1844.

Donald J. Trump State Park, located in the scenic Hudson Valley, is a sprawling parkland that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. This park was named after Donald J. Trump, the former President of the United States, and is known for its vast green spaces, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes.

Dunderberg Mountain, located in Rockland County, New York, is a prominent and scenic peak that forms part of the Hudson Highlands. Rising to an elevation of approximately 1,052 feet, the mountain offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the surrounding landscapes, making it a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.

Evergreen Mountain is a notable peak located in Greene County, within the Catskill Mountains. With an elevation of approximately 3,142 feet, it offers a scenic and rewarding hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts.Hiking Evergreen Mountain typically involves ascending wooded slopes, navigating through forested sections, and occasionally encountering rocky terrain. The most common route to the summit is the Batavia Kill Trail, which begins near the parking area on Big Hollow Road.

The Five Ponds Wilderness, is a vast and pristine wilderness area within the Adirondack Park. Spanning over 118,000 acres, it offers a true backcountry experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.The Five Ponds Wilderness is characterized by its rugged terrain, dense forests, numerous lakes, and meandering rivers. It is a paradise for hikers, backpackers, and wilderness explorers, providing a range of outdoor activities and opportunities to immerse oneself in the natural beauty.

Gannett Hill is a captivating destination situated in the beautiful Finger Lakes region. Perched atop one of the highest points in Ontario County, Gannett Hill offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the picturesque Canandaigua Lake.Located near Naples, New York, Gannett Hill is renowned for its scenic vistas and diverse recreational opportunities. The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities.