127 2-5 Day Treks to Explore in New York

Carnwath Farms Historic Site & Park in Dutchess County, New York is a scenic park located on the banks of the Hudson River. The park, which is on the site of a former Revolutionary War era farm, offers visitors a chance to view the area's rich historical past. In addition to the farmhouse and outbuildings, visitors can explore the old-growth forest and wetlands, catch a glimpse of bald eagles, hike the trails, and experience the tranquility of the Hudson Valley.

Cascade Mountain is located in Essex County, New York. It rises to a peak of 3,859 feet and offers stunning views and spectacular scenery across the Adirondack Park. The mountain's summit is accessible by a moderate 2.2-mile hiking trail from the Cascade Pass parking area near North Hudson.The mountain is composed of an igneous rock called gabbro, which contains a variety of minerals. These give the mountain its characteristic dark color and make it stand out among its surroundings.

Coney Mountain, located in Franklin County, is a popular outdoor destination for hikers and nature lovers. With its unique rock formations, beautiful scenery and numerous trails, it's easy to see why so many people love it. The summit of Coney Mountain stands at an elevation of 4,453 feet and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. The mountain is home to woodlands, meadows and wetlands, making it a great spot for bird watching as well.

Cornell Mountain is a prominent peak, within the Catskill Mountains. It is part of the Slide Mountain Wilderness Area and is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking stunning views and a challenging hike.The mountain is named after Thomas Cornell, an early settler in the area, and it offers hikers a rewarding and strenuous trek to its summit. The most popular trail to Cornell Mountain is the Burroughs Range Trail, which is approximately 10.4 miles round trip.

Croton Point Park, located in Westchester County, New York, is a scenic and sprawling recreational destination that offers a wide range of outdoor activities and stunning views of the Hudson River. This picturesque park is a beloved retreat for locals and visitors alike, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities.

Cumberland Bay State Park is located in Clinton County, New York, on the western shore of Lake Champlain. The park is known for its picturesque beaches and spectacular views of the Adirondack Mountains. Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, and bird watching. The park also has a nature center, picnic areas, and a playground. The park is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

The Dater Mountain Loop Trail is a pawrific day hike, located within the Dater Mountain Nature Preserve. This preserve covers a sprawling 350 acres in Sloatsburg, New York, adjacent to Harriman-Bear Mountain State Park. The acreage encompasses heavily wooded areas, wetlands, streams and high viewpoints. From these high elevations, you’ll be able to enjoy birds-eye views of the surrounding Orange County, the Village of Tuxedo and the New York Thruway.

The Delaware Wild Forest is a 28,000-acre parcel of largely undeveloped land located in the Catskill Mountains of Delaware County, New York. The forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife including black bear, white-tailed deer, bobcat, coyote, ruffed grouse, and turkey. There are over 40 miles of maintained trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the area’s rugged beauty.

Devil's Path Trail, located in Greene County, New York, is not for the faint of heart. It boasts some of the most difficult terrain in the Catskill Mountains, with steep ascents, descents, and rocky terrain that challenge even the most experienced hikers. The trail spans 24.2 miles and covers six peaks over 3,500 feet, including West Kill Mountain and Indian Head. Despite the challenges, Devil's Path Trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Dial Mountain is a mountain located in Essex County. The peak of the mountain has an elevation of 2,376 feet (724 meters) and is part of the Adirondack Mountains. It was named after its shape, which resembles a sundial.The mountain is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts due to its stunning views of the surrounding valleys and lakes. It is also home to many species of wildlife, including black bears, moose, bobcats, coyotes, and numerous bird species.

Donaldson Mountain is located in Franklin County, Virginia and rises to an elevation of 2,052 feet. The mountain offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular destination for hikers and picnickers. A moderate loop trail winds its way up the mountain, offering a challenging climb with great rewards at the summit. There are several streams and waterfalls that can be found along the way, making for an enjoyable and memorable hike.

Doubletop Mountain is a prominent peak located in Ulster County, New York, within the Catskill Mountains. It is one of the 35 Catskill High Peaks and is known for its challenging hiking trails and stunning views from the summit.Doubletop Mountain is a popular destination for experienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a rewarding and strenuous trek. The mountain is characterized by rugged terrain, dense forests, and rocky slopes, offering a true wilderness experience.

The Dutchess Rail Trail is a 25-mile, multi-use recreational path in Dutchess County, New York. The trail begins at the Putnam County border in the town of Dover and extends south through East Fishkill, LaGrange, Poughkeepsie, Hyde Park, and Pleasant Valley, before ending at the Ulster County border. The trail is best enjoyed by walking, biking, and roller blading, and offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the Hudson Valley landscape.

Esther Mountain in Essex County is a popular spot for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the northern end of New Jersey's Highlands region, Esther Mountain is known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The mountain contains a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, wetlands, and streams. Wildlife can often be seen along the trails or near the water.

Fahnestock State Park, also known as Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park, is a pristine and expansive park located in Putnam County, New York. Encompassing over 14,000 acres of breathtaking landscapes, the park offers a wide array of outdoor activities and natural wonders, making it a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

Ferncliff Forest in Duchess County is a forest that spans over 1000 acres and is the largest and oldest remaining tract of old growth forest in the Hudson Valley. It is home to many species of animals, including owls, woodpeckers, coyotes, and deer, and various endangered plants. It is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, bird watching, and boating and also provides access to the Hudson River.

Franny Reese State Park is a beautiful and serene park located in Ulster County, New York. It is named after Franny Reese, a local environmental activist and philanthropist who played a vital role in preserving the parkland.The park is situated on the banks of the Hudson River and offers visitors breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes. It encompasses over 250 acres of green space, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Frost Valley YMCA is a prominent and expansive year-round camp and retreat center located in Ulster. Nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, Frost Valley YMCA offers a diverse range of programs and activities for individuals, families, and groups of all ages.As a well-established YMCA facility, Frost Valley is known for providing enriching and educational experiences focused on fostering personal growth, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.

The Genesee Greenway Trail, is a scenic trail that offers visitors a picturesque and enjoyable outdoor experience. The trail follows the path of the Genesee River, providing opportunities for walking, jogging, cycling, and other recreational activities in a natural and serene setting.Stretching along the Genesee River, the Genesee Greenway Trail offers beautiful views of the river and its surroundings. The trail is surrounded by lush greenery, wooded areas, and wildlife habitats.

The Glen Burn Trail is a 3.5-mile trail located in East Aurora, New York, near the Nannen Arboretum. The trail passes through a variety of terrain including woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. It is well-marked and includes a variety of vegetation and wildlife, such as birds, wildflowers, and deer. The trail also provides access to an observation platform, a picnic area, and several small bridges over streams. The trail is open year-round and is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.