34 Top Rated Best Hikes Upstate New York
New York State is full of breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders. One of the greatest ways of exploring its nature is on the extensive trail system of the best hikes upstate New York.
During the pandemic, we got to hike a gazillion trails and explore almost every corner of our home state New York. We were completely blown away and amazed by New York’s sheer beauty. With so many trails to choose from, finding the best hikes Upstate New York can be quite a challenge.
Where do you want to go in New York? Do you want to explore the Finger Lakes to chase waterfalls, hike the popular Hudson Valley trails, or climb the tallest summits in the Adirondacks?
We made a list of our absolute favorite hikes in upstate New York and categorized them by region to help you out with finding the perfect match for you. Happy Hiking!
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Geographical Regions in New York
New York State is the 27th largest state in the United States at 54,556 square miles. As you can see, there is much more to New York than just New York City. New York City makes up 472.43 of New York’s square miles. The State is broken down into 10 distinct regions:
- Western New York
- Finger Lakes
- Southern Tier
- Central New York
- North Country
- Mohawk Valley
- Capital District
- Hudson Valley
- New York City
- Long Island
For the purpose of this post, we will focus on 7 regions of New York, since they are known for their incredible hiking opportunities. We have left out the Central New York Region simply because we have not had the chance to hike in this area yet.
Check out our New York State Travel Guide for more information on what to do in the state of New York.
Where is Upstate NY?
This question will have a variety of answers depending on who you ask. If you ask a native New Yorker from New York City, they will tell you everything above the city is considered Upstate. Since New York City is located at the lowest portion of the state, of course geologically everything is upstate from there.
But being a native New Yorker from the Hudson Valley, this is not what I (and most of the other New Yorkers) would consider upstate New York. Upstate is anywhere north of Poughkeepsie which is where the Metro-North Railroad line ends. For all of you non-New Yorker’s, Poughkeepsie is located in the middle of the Mid Hudson Valley region.
As we just explained the discrepancy and debate over what is actually considered upstate NY, we included hiking trails in the different regions, leaving out New York City and Long Island.
What Makes Hiking in Upstate NY Worth It?
This question is simple to answer. The best hikes in New York take you across a variety of terrain that will leave you speechless. The tall rolling mountains offer breathtaking views from atop, while the lush forests hide mystical waterfalls. Not to forget the stunning fall season, when the trees are glowing orange and red. Any doubts that this state is one of the best-hiking destinations in the U.S.?
Since there are endless trails to choose from, we figured our list of best hikes in upstate New York makes it a little easier to find your perfect trail. From strenuous climbs and rock scrambling to casual strolls to waterfalls. Each trail has its own unique feature.
Top 5 Hiking Essentials to Pack for the Best Hikes Upstate New York
Day Hiking Packs
Deuter is one of the top brands for hiking packs and just happens to be our favorite. We currently use the Deuter Speed Lite 22 SL which has a more slimming design to fit a women’s back perfectly.
Insulated Water Bottle or Hydration Pack
We found out very quickly that having a good insulated water bottle makes a world of difference on our hiking trips. Personally, we love the Hydroflask 32 oz. Wide Mouth insulated water bottle which comes in many different designs. Additional accessories we like for our Hydroflask are the 32 oz Straw Lid, packable bottle sling, and Flex Boot. Other top brands we would recommend are Camelback and Yeti.
Durable Hiking Footwear
Hiking up the mountains in the Hudson Valley area requires sturdy hiking boots you can trust. We currently (mostly) use the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot and are totally satisfied with them, especially because they are lighter than many other boots.
Comfortable Hiking Socks
Trust us, a quality hiking sock with a good cushion can make a huge difference in how your feet will feel after any hike. Our absolute favorite hiking sock brand is Darn Tough.
Photography Gear
There is never a hike we go on without having our photography gear with us. Peak Design with its many smart photography accessories makes capturing our adventurous hiking moments so much easier. Our ultimate favorite is the Peak Design capture clip which simply attaches your camera to your backpack for quick accessibility.
34 Best Hikes Upstate New York
We categorized the best hikes upstate New York by region, from the west to east and north to south. Within their region, we listed the trails from easy to difficult.
Western New York
Western New York describes the westernmost part of the state near the Canadian border and the northwestern Pennsylvania border. The counties that makeup Western New York are Niagara, Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany.
1. Devil’s Hole Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.4 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: approximately 400 ft
Location: Devil’s Hole State Park
Entrance Fee: Free
Devil’s Hole State Park is a great place to see spectacular scenery without dealing with the crowds next door at Niagara Falls.
The Devil’s Hole trail begins near the main parking area in Devil’s Hole State Park. From there, you will immediately descend numerous stairs leading to the bottom of the gorge. Continue along the mighty Niagara River through the hardwood forest to get the best overlook of the Devil’s Hole Rapids.
Top Tip: You have reached the end of the trail when you are at a trail junction with the Whirlpool Rapids Trail. Here you can choose to continue to Whirlpool State Park (and even add the complete Niagara Gorge Rim trail #3 to your hiking trip) or loop back to the parking area via the Rim Trail.
How to Get There: The trail is located in Devil’s Hole State Park off the Robert Moses Parkway at the NY 104 exit.
2. Eternal Flame Falls Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.4 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 130 ft
Location: Chestnut Ridge Park
Entrance Fee: Free
Experience a one of a kind sight, a flame glistening behind a flowing waterfall. The Eternal Flame Falls is a 30-foot cascading waterfall split into 2 sections. The waterfall is beautiful itself but the real highlight is the Eternal Flame, a 4 to 8 inches high flame, which can be seen behind the cascading waterfall due to a small grotto that houses a natural gas spring.
Top Tip: Although the eternal flame is visible almost throughout the entire year, it is best to visit the falls in the early spring. During this time of year, you are almost guaranteed to see a powerful flow of water. The warmer the weather the drier it gets.
How to Get There: Enter Chestnut Ridge Park located in Western New York. Parking for the trail can be found alongside Seufert Road but space is very limited with only 12 spots or so.
3. Niagara Gorge Rim Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: approx. 5 miles one way
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: approximately 800 ft
Location: Devil’s Hole State Park
Entrance Fee: Free
The Niagara Gorge Rim Trail makes it on the list of best hikes upstate New York because it will lead you through 3 State Parks with many astonishing features along the way.
You start in the Devil’s Hole State Park, where a wide flat trail follows the Niagara Gorge through the forest. At about 1 mile into the trail, you will have a chance to even descend down into the gorge on the Devil’s Hole trail (#1). Throughout the hike, you get numerous unique views of the Niagara River below.
As you continue along the trail you will enter Whirlpool State Park where you can witness the whirlpool rapids of the river.
A visit to this area wouldn’t be complete without admiring the breathtaking Niagara Falls. Continue the trail, and you will eventually end up in Niagara Falls State Park to view the American Falls, one of the 3 waterfalls belonging to Niagara Falls.
Top Tip: Even though we normally recommend visiting waterfalls in the spring, we make an exception this time. June to August are actually the best months to experience Niagara Falls at their fullest. During this time of the year, you can enjoy warm temperatures while all of the area’s attractions are open, even the free Discover Niagara Shuttle.
How to Get There: Jump into the car and head to Devil’s Hole State Park near Niagara Falls. The trailhead for the Niagara Gorge Rim Trail is near the parking area for Devil’s Hole.
Finger Lakes / Southern Tier
The Finger Lakes and Southern Tier region is considered the area around the 5 Finger Lakes. It is one of our favorite areas in New York due to its outstanding trails, powerful waterfalls around every corner, and tasty wines.
The actual Finger Lake region accounts for the counties just off to the right of the Western New York region: Monroe, Wayne, Seneca, Ontario, Yates, Livingston, Wyoming, Genesee, and Orleans.
Whereas, the Southern Tier region of New York includes the counties of Delaware, Broome, Chenango, Tioga, Thompkins, Chemung, Schuyler, and Steuben.
We have categorized these 2 regions together because a lot of people presume many of these hikes to be in the Finger Lakes region since most of them are in close proximity to the lakes. However, the majority of them actually lie within the Southern Tier region in Thompkins County.
4. Cascadilla Gorge Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.3 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: approximately 300 ft
Location: Ithaca, NY
Entrance Fee: Free
The Finger Lakes are filled with awe-inspiring gorges but the Cascadilla Gorge stands out a little. It was even voted as Ithaca’s favorite gorge. Shortly after entering the trail, you will be immersed in this dreamy waterscape making you easily and quickly forget being within the city limits.
The historic stone steps that bring you through the gorge were originally constructed in the 1920s to bring visitors to see the picturesque gorge with cascading waters and 8 larger waterfalls.
Hiking the lower section of the gorge trail, starting from downtown Ithaca, is without a doubt the most scenic part. Nevertheless, keep continuing north to the upper section, towards the Cornell Campus, to get a different perspective through a more wooded area.
Top Tip: Make sure the Cascadilla Gorge Trail is open before you go! As of October 2021, the Gorge trail from Stewart Avenue to College Avenue is closed for repairs until further notice.
How to Get There: To access the Cascadilla Gorge Trail from the lower trailhead head to Treman Triangle Park in Ithaca off of Linn Street. You can park along the road. The upper trailhead is behind Cornell’s Schwartz Center for Theatre Arts on the Cornell campus.
5. Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.9 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 250 ft
Location: Taughannock Falls State Park
Entrance Fee: $9 per vehicle
The Gorge Trail to Taughannock Falls is an extremely easy walk to the base of the falls. As you walk through the woods on the flat pathway, take a moment and look up and around at the massive 400-foot cliffs that are surrounding you.
After a 1 mile walk, you will reach the 215-foot waterfall. If the water is flowing, it is so powerful that you can feel the overspray as you walk across the tiny bridge before reaching the viewing platform at the base.
Since this trail leads to the park’s main feature, expect there to be a crowd. Avoid popular times of the day and weekends to have a more exclusive experience. Usually, the earlier you go the better. Once midday starts rolling in, it will get very difficult to find a parking spot. If you don’t find parking immediately, just wait a minute. Being a short, easy hike, people don’t tend to take too long on the trail. So parking spots do open up more occasionally.
Top Tip: Make sure to also see Taughannock Falls from the birds-eye view at the Falls Overlook. You don’t even have to walk far for this famous Instagram spot, it is located right next to the parking lot.
How to Get There: Head to Upstate New York’s Finger Lakes Region to Taughannock Falls State Park. The small parking lot for the trail is located at the trailhead across the street from the main entrance to the State Park.
6. Watkins Glen Gorge Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.5 miles one way
Type of Hike: Loop with a Rim Trail
Elevation Gain/Loss: 575ft
Location: Watkins Glen State Park
Entrance Fee: $10 per vehicle
The Watkins Glen Gorge Trail is one of the top-rated best hikes upstate New York trails and that is for good reason. This magical 1.5-mile trek through the gorge will leave you absolutely speechless as you admire 19 waterfalls surrounded by stunning cliffs and lush forests.
A moderate man-made trail with roughly 800 stone steps provides hikers access to one of the most beautiful areas in New York State. Once in the gorge, the trail is relatively flat with many uneven wet surface areas, so make sure to take your time.
We promise you won’t be bored on this trail as there is something exciting to see around every corner. From passing by waterfalls to going underneath them.
Top Tip: Make sure to grab a map or snap a photo of the trail map below before heading out on your hike. There are 12 unique features along the trail you won’t want to miss.
How to Get There: Take the drive to Watkins Glen State Park and park in the Main Entrance to begin at the actual trailhead. The park does have 2 other entrances, the South Entrance and Upper Entrance. Parking in those lots would not be our preferred choice. If you end up in the Upper Entrance, you will start the Gorge Trail from the opposite end.
7. Gorge & Rim Trail – Buttermilk Falls State Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.6 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: approximately 460 ft
Location: Buttermilk Falls State Park
Entrance Fee: $9 per vehicle
Hiking at Buttermilk Falls State Park is a must in upstate New York. As you enter the park, you are immediately greeted by its main feature, Buttermilk Falls, falling 165 feet down into a beautiful pool. But that shouldn’t be it for you. Prolong your experience by hiking the Gorge and Rim Trail to see all of the park’s special features.
To begin the trail, we recommend starting off to the left of the bathrooms next to the parking lot. You want to get this part of the trail done quickly since it is not the most scenic and it does require the most effort. Just take the slow descent up through the woods to get to the rim before crossing over the falls and down into the gorge.
During the second half of the hike, you find yourself in the astonishing gorge, walking along a rugged wet stone surface passing multiple cascading waterfalls leading to the top of Buttermilk Falls.
Top Tip: Save some money by visiting more than one State Park in the Finger Lake region in 1 day. Once you paid your entrance fee in one of the parks, you can visit the other State Parks for free that day. Did you know that camping at a State Park also gives you free access to all of the parks for the time of your stay?
How to Get There: Travel to Buttermilk Falls State Park and park in the lot off to the left. The trailhead to the Rim Trail begins just off the parking lot near the restrooms, while the trailhead to the Gorge Trail is located on the right of Buttermilk Falls.
8. Rim & Gorge Trail – Robert H. Treman State Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.3 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: 820 ft
Location: Robert H. Treman State Park
Entrance Fee: $9 per vehicle
Like the other state parks in this region, the Rim and Gorge Trail in Robert H. Treman State Park does not disappoint with its 2 waterfalls, the 115-foot Lucifer Falls and the 70-feet Lower Falls. Experience yet another gorge in the Finger Lakes.
Starting from the lower entrance, you will ascend up the rim trail with aerial views of Lower Falls and the gorge itself. As you make your way to Lucifer Falls, you will traverse through the woods along the rim of the gorge. Eventually, you will be at an intersection where you can get your first glimpse of Lucifer Falls straight ahead. We suggest making the left and climb up the steep stone steps to have a more immersive view of the waterfall.
Once you see Lucifer Falls in its fullest from the overlook, you can also notice the Gorge Trail on the opposite side. Follow the last part of the Rim Trail and continue on the Gorge Trail which lets you descend right next to the splendid Lucifer Falls.
Top Tip: We preferred starting on the Rim Trail from the Parking Lot near Lower Falls heading up to Lucifer Falls to keep the more spectacular part of the trail for the way back.
How to Get There: Enter through Robert H. Treman State Park’s lower entrance and follow the signs leading to the Rim and Gorge Trail. Coming from this direction, there are 2 different parking areas you can start from. Or you can choose to enter through the upper entrance to begin at the opposite end of the trail.
9. Gorge Trail – Letchworth State Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 14 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: approximately 2,100 ft
Location: Letchworth State Park
Entrance Fee: $10 per vehicle
Letchworth State Park has been deemed as the Grand Canyon of the East. It is easily one of the most scenic areas in New York and the eastern United States. The extensive beauty of the park is undoubtedly home to some of the best hikes upstate New York has to offer.
Letchworth lengthy Gorge Trail is a popular park favorite. The trail follows along the rim of the gorge offering dramatic views of the Genesee River and 3 major waterfalls.
On the hike, you will pass the Lower Falls, Middle Falls, Upper Falls, and Inspiration Point, a fantastic overlook that features the perfect view of the Middle Falls and Upper Falls. On your way, you will also find plenty of picnic areas perfect for taking a scenic break.
You have the option of starting the trail from either end or you can choose to only hike sections of the trail. There is easy access due to the various parking lots throughout the park.
Top Tip: Although the trail is mainly flat and easy, it is still a long hike that will require some endurance to complete. Since we spent 2 days in the park, we took our time completing one section of the trail on 1 day and the other section on another day.
How to Get There: Enter Letchworth State Park and leave your car at the parking area near Portageville Entrance. The parking lot will be off to the left-hand side.
North Country
As the name suggests, the North Country is the area farthest north along the Canadian border. The most popular and most widely known area located in this region is The Adirondacks. Some of the best hiking in Upstate NY are found in this region. Here are the counties which make up this area: Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, St. Lawrence, Jefferson, and Lewis.
10. Ausable Chasm
Difficulty: Easy
Length: Varies depending on what trails you take
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: approximately 300 ft
Location: Ausable Chasm, New York
Entrance Fee: $17.95 per adult
Ausable Chasm is one of the oldest natural attractions in America. But this is just one reason why it has to be on our best hikes upstate New York list. There is also a variety of activities to do, from rock climbing to rafting, and of course hiking, which makes this place a must-see destination.
With just a few trails, you can easily experience all of the parks in a couple of hours. A popular hiking trail loop is to start on the Rim Walk Trail and continue on the Inner Sanctum Trail. This route will get you a broad view of Ausable Chasm. It is an easy walk where you can explore both, the lush forest above and the natural geology of the sandstone gorge up close.
Top Tip: Visit Ausable Chasm during different seasons for totally different experiences. The warmer months of the year bring flowing waters which invite thrilling outdoor adventures in the chasm. Visiting in the winter provides a magical frozen landscape, from snow-covered trails to massive ice formations along the cliffs.
We experienced the Ausable Chasm during January and felt like we were in Disney’s movie ‘Frozen’ because of the incredible natural ice creations.
How to Get There: Ausable Chasm is easily located off of 1-87 between exit 34 and 35. If you are using a GPS, you should have no problem typing in Ausable Chasm to find the location.
11. Roaring Brook Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.6 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 456 feet
Location: Keene Valley – Adirondack Mountains
Entrance Fee: Free
A short hike through the woods brings you to this beautiful 300 foot Adirondack waterfall. You have 2 options to hike this trail. The first one is the short one to the base of Roaring Brook Falls which is a 0.6 miles flat trail from the parking lot. The second option leads you to the top of the falls which is a 1.0-mile hike up a small ascent.
We opted to do both of the trails to experience Roaring Brook Falls from the top and bottom and we would highly suggest doing the same. Honestly, if you are going to do the trail, you have to hike to the top. You don’t get to see too much of the waterfall itself but the views looking out over the Adirondacks are incredible, especially during the fall foliage.
Top Tip: You can also see this waterfall from the road along Route 75.
How to Get There: The trailhead is located about 20 minutes south of Lake Placid in Keene Valley. The parking area is across the street from the popular Indian Head Trail on State Route 73.
12. Cascade Mountain Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 4.4 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,900 feet
Location: Keene, New York
Entrance Fee: Free
You will almost be able to touch the sky or at least enjoy some high up 360-degree views of the surrounding Adirondacks when reaching the top of the beautiful Cascade Mountain.
For the first part, the moderate incline slowly weaves you in and around the trees and rocks through the woods. After just a short while that moderate incline increasingly becomes steeper. Eventually, you will reach a trail junction with Porter Mountain around 2 miles into your trek. At this point, it is not much further until you are welcomed with a clear view up over the treetops at the summit of Cascade Mountain.
We highly recommended doing this trail in the winter. There are a lot of big boulders on the trail which can be a little annoying to climb over in the summertime. During the winter, the layers of packed snow beneath your feet make it a smooth trail. During the cold season, it is also a very magical place where you can see beautiful trees covered in snow and ice.
Top Tip: When we arrived at the trailhead, we were greeted by a park ranger who made sure we brought the right gear. Take their advice seriously and bring snowshoes or skies for the trail in the wintertime. Otherwise, you will not have a fun experience.
How to Get There: The Cascade Mountain trailhead is located on Route 73, about 8.5 miles east of Lake Placid. The parking area tends to fill up quickly, which means you will most likely have to park in alternative areas along the road. Do keep in mind that this is a very busy road, so be careful as you make your way to the trailhead, which immediately drops off from the highway.
13. Whiteface Mountain Summit Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 10.1 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,600 feet
Location: Wilmington, New York – Adirondack Mountains
Entrance Fee: Free
The summit of New York’s fifth highest mountain awaits you with some of the most expansive views of the Adirondack Mountain peaks, Lake Placid, and the Saranac Lakes. On clear days you can even see the skyline of Montreal in Canada.
The Whiteface Mountain Summit Trail is an exciting hike on varied terrain. The trail is not overly crowded, so you will enjoy the quiet, peaceful nature for yourself until you get closer to the summit. Since you can reach the summit by car on the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway, you will most likely have to share the last bit with a dozen other people.
For the last part, you will hike on the ⅕-mile Stairway Ridge trail. Even though it is not a long hike, you shouldn’t underestimate the 27 flights of man-made steps. On your way up to your final destination, the weather station at the summit, enjoy every second of the unforgettable views of the area.
Top Tip: There is plenty to do at Whiteface Mountain. Extend your adventure on one of the other hiking trails, play a round of Disc Golf, or refuel your body in the Cloudspin Bar & Grill, or the 4610’ Grill, the highest food truck in New York.
How to Get There: The Whiteface Mountain trailhead is located at the Wilmington Reservoir parking area at the end of Reservoir Road off Whiteface Mountain Road
14. Indian Head Trail (+ Rainbow Falls)
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 11 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: about 2,000 feet
Parking: Need Parking Permit for the Trailhead
Entrance Fee: Free
Indian Head is probably the only hiking trail where you might totally forget that you are still in New York State. The European-like Fjord is surrounded by lush forests in the summer and colorful foliage scenery in the fall.
You have different options on how to get to the summit but make sure to add the short detour to the Rainbow Falls. While it may look more like a drizzle in the summer, it is very powerful after heavy rain or snowmelt. Since the hike itself is quite long, the total incline is not bad. Just expect some thrilling rock scrambling before you reach Indian Head.
Top Tip: From May 1 through October 31 you need a permit to hike Indian Head and Rainbow Falls. Create your own profile to make a free reservation for a specific time slot online. Unfortunately, there is no other way to see this heavenly place in the Adirondacks during the peak season.
How to Get There: The trailhead is located 20 minutes south of Lake Placid in Keene Valley. You will have to park in the AMR (Adirondack Mountain Reserve) parking lot off of State Route 73. Do not park along Route 73 or the golf club. Chances are high that your awesome hiking day ends with a bad surprise when you realize your car got towed.
15. Mount Marcy
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 14.8 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,166 ft
Location: Town of Keene – Adirondack Mountains
Entrance Fee: $15 per vehicle
Climb to the summit of New York’s tallest mountain, the king of the Adirondacks, Mount Marcy. The mountain stands at an astonishing 5,344 feet above sea level.
There are 4 different routes hikers can take to reach the summit. The shortest and most popular route is from the Adirondack Loj parking lot via the Van Hoevenberg trailhead.
Although the trail is not overly steep, it is still a long hike which will require good stamina. Along the trail, you will hike through a variety of terrains. The most challenging part will come right in front of the summit. With about 0.6 miles left to the top, you will have to maneuver over open rocks. You can’t beat the feeling of arriving at the state’s highest point, enjoying the best-unobstructed view of the Adirondack Mountains.
Top Tip: Mount Marcy is conveniently located just about 8 miles from Lake Placid, which makes it a great place for an overnight stay. If you happen to hike this trail during the colder months, also check out our recommendations on what to do in Lake Placid in the winter.
How to Get There: The trailhead is located in the Adirondack Loj parking lot. To get to the parking lot you need to take Adirondack Loj Road off NY-73.
Mohawk Valley
The very rural Mohawk Valley is centrally located in New York State. Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Oneida, and Schoharie counties make up this region.
16. Vroman’s Nose Hiking Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.5 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: 500 feet
Parking: Parking Area off West Middleburgh Road
Entrance Fee: Free
Vroman’s Nose is the most popular hiking trail within Schoharie County because of its uniquely shaped “nose looking” feature. The trail begins with a steady, not-so-bad incline before reaching a trail junction where hikers have the option to go 1 of 2 ways. You can choose to hike up the short and steep trail, or the longer trail with less incline.
As you approach Vroman’s Nose, the views of Schoharie Valley begin to make their appearance. Continuing along the edge of the trail, you will come across a section better known as “the Dance Floor.” It is a large flat rock surface perfect for pausing and taking in the view.
Top Tip: This trail is one of the more family-friendly trails on our list of best hikes upstate New York, so bring the family for this one to enjoy.
How to Get There: You can find the main trailhead parking lot off West Middleburgh Road. It is a large grassy area with clearly marked signs. From the parking area, you should follow the old wooden road on the right and then enjoy the climb.
Capital District
New York’s Capital District is home to the state’s capital city, Albany, and some of the best hikes in upstate New York. It is located along the upper parts of the Hudson River. Here are the counties that make up this region: Albany, Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Warren, and Washington.
17. Indian Ladder Trail – John Boyd Thacher State Park
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.0 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: 200 feet
Location: Voorheesville, New York
Entrance Fee: $6 per vehicle
This trail easily offers the most special features in the shortest distance. On a just 0.5 mile trail (1.0 miles roundtrip) you will pass several waterfalls, and a cave, while you are able to enjoy some of the most stunning overlooks in the area.
After starting your hike, you will almost immediately reach the Indian Ladder, a metal staircase leading you down the cliff. Follow the trail and it will bring you along high cliffs where you may have to duck under a few lower cliff hangings to reach the Minelot Falls. As you pass behind the waterfall you will continue following the cliff and wandering through the woods. Just a little later, you will see another waterfall and a cave.
Top Tip: After this fun, short hiking experience, head over to the nearby Indian Ladder Farm to pick some juicy fruits, grab fresh foods at the Farmers Market, or sip at one of their tasty beers or ciders.
How to Get There: Plug John Boyd Thacher State Park into your GPS and head to upstate New York. Once in the park, leave your car at the La Grange Bush parking lot to access the trailhead.
18. Kaaterskill Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.6 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: about 400 feet
Parking: Parking Lot on Laurel House Road
Entrance Fee: Free
This impressive 260-foot waterfall is one of the tallest falls in New York, which makes this trail one of the most visited Hudson Valley hikes with waterfalls and best hikes in upstate New York.
You are able to observe this natural spectacle from the top of the falls and the bottom. We would highly recommend checking out the top viewing deck before heading down hundreds of stone steps to the base of the waterfall.
Top Tip: The best time to visit Kaaterskill Falls is in the spring after the snow melts when the water is at its strongest. At that time, you can even walk behind the waterfall. How cool is that? Another great time for a visit is in the winter when the falls are covered in snow and magical ice formations.
How to Get There: The parking lot for Kaaterskill Falls is at the end of Laurel House Road which is off of North Lake Road. From this parking lot, the upper viewing deck is about 0.3 miles. Once you reach the bridge along the trail, the base of the waterfall is just over 0.5 miles.
19. Sleeping Beauty Mountain
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.6 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,200 feet
Location: Lake George Wild Forest Area
Entrance Fee: Free
I don’t know about you, but we definitely feel attracted by this trial’s appealing name. But there is more to it. This family-friendly hike will bring you to a true and a false summit with incredible vistas of the mountain ranges.
Sleeping Beauty Mountain trail begins as a wide rocky and sometimes muddy trail causing a little bit of rough terrain. After about 0.75 of a mile, you will come to a trail junction, stay right for the quickest way up the summit. The trail will lead you along interesting cliffs and does open up for some fantastic views even though it is not the true summit. The real summit is just about a half-mile up but does not provide any clear view.
Top Tip: If you don’t mind extending your hike, turn left at the trail junction and follow the markers to Bumps Pond. You can even continue your path on the Fish Brook Pond before making it a loop back to the parking lot.
How to Get There: The trailhead for the Sleeping Beauty Mountain is located at the Dacy Clearing Road parking lot. Take the Shelving Rock Road, a single-lane, bumpy dirt road to get there. The dirt road is only open in summer and during periods of dry weather. If the gates are closed, you will need to park at the Hogtown Parking Area, which adds 3 miles to the hike.
20. Poet’s Ledge
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 6.2 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,600 feet
Location: Palenville, NY – Kaaterskill Wild Forest
Entrance Fee: Free
Poet’s Ledge is a much less traveled trail from our best hikes upstate New York list. Even though it is more off the beaten path and does not have the ‘high peaks’ label, it is a great option, especially for those who are looking for a little more solitude.
Finding the trail can be a little challenging, since the start of the actual trail is located next to a ranch. A small wooden arch marked with “Hiking Trail” will lead you the way.
Once you have found the trail, there is no time for a rest. Hike on a steady incline and save your break for an overlook casting out over the Hudson Valley. Shortly after, you will be rewarded with a level hiking trail, but be mindful of the trail markings and trail junctions. The views are waiting for you when you finally arrive at the summit of Poet’s Ledge.
Two of the best times to hike Poet’s Ledge are in the fall, for the excellent fall colors, and the spring, for an abundance of wildflowers.
Top Tip: Combine this hiking adventure with the nearby, popular Kaaterskill Falls Trail (#18) for an epic hiking experience on some of the best hikes upstate New York has to offer.
How to Get There: Take exit 21 off of the NYS Thruway. We would recommend using the directions from the Alltrails app to find your way to the trail. Please note, you cannot park at the trailhead but there are 3 other parking options for you:
- Just before the bridge which is in the west bound lane
- 0.25 miles past the bridge
- 0.4 miles before the bridge in the DEC (Department of Environmental Conservation) parking lot
21. Buck Mountain
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 6.6 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,000 feet
Location: Lake George Wild Forest Area
Entrance Fee: Free
Buck Mountain is another hike you have to add to your best hikes upstate New York list. It has a serious incline and some rocky sections which require a hands-on approach, but at the top, you will get compensated with stunning vistas of the Lake and the Adirondacks.
The trail begins off nicely on a flat surface, but quickly turns into a steep and consistent incline pretty much all the way to the summit. Don’t let the elevation gain scare you, the trail is well manageable. Just take your time and enjoy being outdoors.
You will know you have reached the summit when the trail opens up, and a beautiful aerial view of Lake George is in front of you.
Top Tip: Try this hike during New York Fall Foliage to see the trees cast their vibrant colors across the area. There is nothing more beautiful than being on top of a mountain admiring the colors of fall.
How to Get There: The trailhead is located at the end of Pilot Knob Road which is on the east side of Lake George. Pilot Knob Road is off of Route 9L which runs along the shores of the lake.
Hudson Valley
The beautiful Hudson Valley region is located just above New York City. We might be a little biased because it is our home region, but we truly think this area has the highest density of breathtaking hiking trails. We have spent an incredible amount of time exploring the trails in this area but still find more and more trails to add to our list.
The counties in this area are Orange, Rockland, Dutchess, Ulster, Putnam, Westchester, and Sullivan.
22. Awosting Falls – Minnewaska State Park
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.0 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: approximately 100 feet
Parking: Lower Awosting Parking Area at Minnewaska State Park
Entrance Fee: $10
Awosting Falls is one of the most popular and most visited features in Minnewaska State Park. This easy trail leads you to the base of the 60-foot tall waterfall which majestically drops into the Peterskill stream. We really enjoy this cute waterfall, that is why we have visited it in every single season.
Find out everything you need to know about hiking to Awosting Falls in our detailed guide Explore the Awosting Falls Trail in Minnewaska State Park.
Top Tip: During the main season, Minnewaska State Park gets extremely crowded. Make sure to arrive when the gates open (mostly 9:00 AM) to grab one of the parking spots.
How to Get There: To get to the falls, you will need to enter through Minnewaska State Park’s main entrance on Route 44-55. After pulling off the main road, you follow the roadway, which leads you to the ticket booth. Here, you purchase your daily pass for Minnewaska State Park and head straight to the Lower Awosting parking area.
23. Anthony’s Nose Trail – Hudson Highlands State Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.9 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 675 feet
Parking: Off of Route 9D in Cortlandt near the Bear Mountain Bridge
Entrance Fee: Free
Anthony’s Nose is a short, steep climb along part of the Appalachian Trail. It leads to one of the most impressive viewpoints in the northern part of Westchester County. You will be overlooking the stunning Hudson River, spectacular waves of mountain ranges, and the iconic Bear Mountain Bridge.
Being just a short drive or train ride from New York City, this trail sees its fair share of hikers. We would highly recommend hiking this trail during the weekdays or in the early hours of the day. Parking is limited and is a constant struggle for hikers to find a spot.
This highly sought-after trail is easily one of the top-rated trails to go hiking in Hudson Valley. Find out more in our post about hiking on the Anthony’s Nose trail.
Top Tip: Be Prepared for the Wind. Since you are hiking to the top of a mountain, you can expect it to be a tad windy up there. Depending on the time of year you are hiking, you may want to carry a light or midweight jacket to protect yourself at the top.
How to Get There: You can access this trail by train or car. By train, you will want to take the Metro-North from Grand Central to Cortlandt via the Hudson Line. Then pick up an Uber or Lyft for a quick 10-minute drive to the trailhead. By car, it is about a 60 to 90-minute drive from New York City depending on your starting point and traffic.
24. Bonticou Crag Trail – Mohonk Preserve
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.3 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: about 500 feet
Parking: Spring Farm Parking Area
Entrance Fee: $15 per hiker
The Bonticou Crag Trail gives hikers a little challenge with a short, steep rock scramble to the top. This section of the trail is what draws people in. It will take roughly 15 to 20 minutes to complete and is more difficult for some than others. Don’t forget to keep a lookout for the trail markers every once in a while as you are scrambling. You want to make sure you are still on the trail to Leave No Trace.
Since this trail is relatively short and you might have to drive a little to your destination, you may want to think about connecting the Table Rock trail to your hiking in Hudson Valley adventure.
Top Tip: If you plan on visiting the Mohonk Preserve at least once every season (or 4 times a year in general), you should consider purchasing an annual membership for the preserve for $60. With this membership, you can hike, run, cross-country ski, and snowshoe.
How to Get There: Head north up the New York State Thruway. Take exit 18 for New Paltz to Upper 27 Knolls Road in High Falls. The trail is located in the Mohonk Preserve. It is best to park at the Spring Farm Parking Area of the Preserve.
25. Storm King Trail – Storm King Mountain
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.4 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: 630 feet
Parking: Parking Area on East Side of Mountain Road
Entrance Fee: Free
The Storm King Mountain hike offers an opposing view from the popular Breakneck Ridge Trail from across the river. Similar to its counterpart, the hike up Storm King Mountain showcases excellent outlooks of the Hudson River and other prominent Hudson Valley features.
To enjoy these views, it will require an extended steep uphill climb, before it flattens out to a more mellow hike through a forested area. The top offers open views and is a perfect place to have a picnic lunch to rest and take it all in.
Top Tip: Even though this trail is not extremely popular, parking can be an issue because there is simply not a lot of availability. When we arrived in the spring on a weekend at 9 AM, we were lucky to snag the last parking spot.
How to Get There: Head to Storm King State Park where there is a parking lot along the northbound side of Mountain Road (9W). The trailhead to the summit is just bordering the north side of the parking lot.
26. Perkins Memorial Tower Observation Loop – Bear Mountain State Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.8 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: about 1,000 feet
Parking: Parking at Bear Mountain State Park
Entrance Fee: $10
Bear Mountain State Park is a top hiking in Hudson Valley destination with an expansive trail system and iconic views. Perkins Memorial Tower Observation Loop attracts visitors from all over New York State for its 360-degree view of the surrounding area atop Bear Mountain.
Soak up the area’s beauty as you climb to the top of the tower. The tower is usually accessible from April to late November, depending on the weather conditions.
Top Tip: After your hike, you should enjoy the beautiful Hessian Lake and the State Park a little longer. Just take a break on one of the benches around the lake, or even rent one of the pedal cruisers for some water fun. By the way, Bear Mountain State Park is also a very popular place to have a tasty BBQ.
How to Get There: If you are coming from NYC, you can take the Metro-North train or drive your own car to the park. The state park is located on the west side of the Bear Mountain Bridge opposite the Anthony’s Nose hike.
27. Overlook Mountain
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.6 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,400 feet
Parking: Limited Parking at Trailhead
Entrance Fee: Free
Head up to the Catskill Mountain region to enjoy a wonderful hike up Overlook Mountain. Experiencing this trail is a nice addition to a trip to one of the top charming Hudson Valley towns of Saugerties and Woodstock.
However, this trail is not just a walk in the woods. The Overlook Mountain trail consists of steep inclines which gain quite a bit of elevation in the 4.6 miles to the summit. At just about 2.0 miles into the hike, you will reach the ruins of the Overlook Mountain House. From there, it will take about another 0.5 miles to reach the Fire Tower at the Summit.
At this point, you may be a little exhausted, so take a break before climbing up the Fire Tower. If you happen to be hiking on a clear day, you may even be able to see distinct Hudson Valley landmarks.
Top Tip: On your way to the top, check out the ruins of the Overlook Mountain House, which was one of the most famous hotels in the Catskill Mountains, overlooking the Hudson Valley. It was even visited by three US presidents before it got burned down intentionally in 1963.
How to Get There: Park in the small parking lot at the trailhead located on Meads Mountain Road. Then follow a gravel pathway to the red-blazed trail markers which bring you to the top of Overlook Mountain. The quickest and easiest way to get to the trailhead is heading North on Interstate 87, also known as the New York State Thruway.
28. Verkeerderkill Falls – Sam’s Point Preserve
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 6.0 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: about 700 feet
Parking: Sam’s Point Parking Area
Entrance Fee: $10
Verkeerderkill Falls is another picturesque waterfall found in Minnewaska State Park, surrounded by outstanding views of the Shawangunk region and Catskill mountains. It is the highest waterfall in the Shawangunks, dropping down 187 feet.
Before heading out to hike to this Hudson Valley waterfall, get all the information you need from our post Hike to the Unforgettable Verkeerderkill Falls in Minnewaska State Park.
Top Tip: Two of our favorite times of year to visit Verkeerderkill Falls are the fall and spring. The fall time showcases the beautiful fall colors, while the spring emphasizes the powerful flow of the waterfall.
How to Get There: Head to the Sam’s Point Area of Minnewaska State Park which is the southernmost section of the Park. This area is located at 400 Sams Point Road, Cragsmoor, NY 12420 about a 30 minutes drive from the park’s main entrance.
29. Giant Ledge & Panther Mountain Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 6.3 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: about 2,000 feet
Parking: Alongside the road at the trailhead
Entrance Fee: Free
This is definitely a trail on the best hike upstate New York list you will not want to miss out on. The Giant Ledge and Panther Mountain Trail is a popular fall favorite with views overlooking the Catskill Mountains. Be ready for a leg-burning climb as you make your way up. At the top, you won’t even remember that your legs are tired because you will be awestruck by the amazing views of the Giant Ledges and the vast colors of the Catskill Mountains. This trail is known to be muddy so be prepared with proper footwear.
After such an exhausting hike, you deserve a delicious dinner. Read more about visiting the cute town of Phoenicia below to end your day of hiking.
Top Tip: If you are not up for a long, intense trail, just hike until Giant Ledge and turn around. You will still be able to enjoy the breathtaking views but can save some energy for the next hiking adventure in upstate New York.
How To Get There: Depending on the direction you are coming from, it is probably the easiest to take the New York State Thruway to Kingston and enjoy the scenic drive on Route 28 towards Phoenicia. The Giant Ledge trailhead is on Oliverea Road.
30. Breakneck Ridge Trail – Hudson Highlands State Park
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 1 mile = Short Loop, 2.1 miles = Moderate Loop, 2.8 miles = Long Loop
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,250 feet -1,670 feet
Parking: Along the Road near Trailhead
Entrance Fee: Free
Breakneck Ridge is one of the most popular and favorite hiking trails in the Hudson Valley, due to the incredible views from atop. Although this trail is marked as difficult, it does offer a few different trail options to fit your hiking level.
Being a popular Hudson Valley hiking trail, you can always assume it will be crowded and difficult to find a parking spot. We tried multiple times on the weekends but did not succeed. When we decided to complete the Breakneck Ridge trail on a weekday, we could easily get a parking spot close to the trailhead. Another option would be to start your hiking day very early in the morning.
Top Tip: While hiking the Breakneck Ridge trail, we were very disappointed by how much trash, especially empty water bottles, we found on the trail. Please always remember to carry out what you brought in and Leave No Trace.
How to Get There: The Breakneck Ridge trail is located between Cold Spring and Beacon. You will find designated parking areas along Route 9D. The trailhead is right next to the tunnel, so if you can try to park as close as possible to save yourself some annoying time hiking on the road.
31. Major Welch Trail – Bear Mountain State Park
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 4.1
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: about 1,200 feet
Parking: Parking Area at Bear Mountain State Park
Entrance Fee: $10
Start on the flat and easy loop trail around the beautiful Hessian Lake before ascending through the woods and challenging yourself on making your way up to some massive rock faces. On top of Bear Mountain, you will realize immediately that this climb was well worth all your effort. Take in the gorgeous views of the Perkins Memorial Tower, the Hudson River, and the Bear Mountain Bridge.
By the way, if you like this trail, you can thank Major Welch. He was the park’s first General Manager who took an important role in creating the stunning hiking trail system in the Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks.
Top Tip: We are huge fans of loop trails, so if you don’t mind extending your hike, we would highly recommend taking the Perkins Memorial Tower via Appalachian Trail back to Hessian Lake.
How to Get There: If you are coming from NYC, you can take the Metro-North train or drive your own car to the park. The state park is located on the west side of the Bear Mountain Bridge opposite the Anthony’s Nose hike.
32. Mount Beacon Fire Tower – Hudson Highlands State Park
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 4.4 miles
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: about 1,500 feet
Parking: Parking Area at Trailhead
Entrance Fee: Free
Located in one of Hudson Valley’s vibrant towns is the Mount Beacon Fire Tower. The trail’s prime location on the edge of town and its close proximity to the Beacon train station makes it even more accessible than other Hudson Valley hikes.
This hike is mainly difficult due to its long, steep incline. The trail starts off with a short gravel path to a set up of metal stairs and continues with another forever long gravel incline. You are sure to feel a burning sensation in your quads and calves as you make your way up. Once you reach the overlook, your legs will be thanking you for a break.
To reach the fire tower, you will have to do just a little more hiking. On a clear day, you may be able to spot some other distinct landmarks in the area. Overall, the hike is well worth the effort.
Top Tip: Watch out for snakes! Usually, we don’t see snakes while hiking the Hudson Valley but when we did this hike during the spring, we encountered them everywhere. Some just looked like sticks on the hiking trail, so better keep your eyes open not to step on them.
How to Get There: The trailhead is just under 2 miles from the Beacon Train Station on Route 9D. The parking lot at the trailhead is clearly marked with a sign for Mount Beacon.
33. Labyrinth and Lemon Squeeze – Mohonk Preserve
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 4.5 to 5.5 miles, depending on route
Type of Hike: Out and Back
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,000 feet
Location: Mohonk Preserve
Entrance Fee: $15- $30
The Labyrinth trail will have you rock scrambling over, and squeeze you through a massive jumble of boulders. Be prepared to use your arms and legs!
While making your way up to the Sky Top Tower with fantastic views of the Mohonk Preserve, you will also pass the Lemon Squeeze, a 100-foot rock crevice you have to pass on a ladder. Hiking this trail may be hands down one of the most unforgettable hiking trips in the Hudson Valley.
Top Tip: With the trail being very technical it is not open all year round. The unpredictable winter weather leaves this trail closed to all hikers with usually an unknown open and closing date. It is best to call Mohonk Preserve or check their website before heading out.
How to Get There: Head to Mohonk Preserve located in New Paltz, New York. You can choose to make this a short loop (4.5 miles) or a long loop (5.5 miles). For the short loop, park at the Mohonk Mountain House, which requires a $30 fee per hiker. If you don’t mind the extra mile, save some bucks and park at the Mohonk Gatehouse for $15 per hiker.
34. Gertrude’s Nose Trail – Minnewaska State Park
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 7 miles
Type of Hike: Loop
Elevation Gain/Loss: about 1,100 feet
Parking: Upper Parking Area at Minnewaska State Park
Entrance Fee: $10
Gertrude’s Nose is a popular Hudson Valley attraction in Minnewaska State Park. The beginning part of the hike has you wander halfway around Lake Minnewaska before you make your way on a forested footpath. The absolute highlight of the trail is the walk along the beautiful ridges with picturesque views of the surrounding valleys.
If you are looking for a day out on the trails, hiking the famous rock formation Gertrude’s Nose in the Shawangunk Mountains is the one for you as it encompasses a wide variety of hiking terrain while showcasing the beauty of Minnewaska State Park.
Top Tip: When you really want to get the most out of your $10 park entrance fee, we would recommend taking advantage of all the other great activities the park has to offer. Join the fascinating Ranger Talks to learn more about the area, take a look at the new, modern Visitor Center, jump into the refreshing water at the public beach, or connect Gertrude’s Nose Trail with one of the other alluring hiking trails in the park.
How to Get There: Enter through Minnewaska State Park’s main entrance on Route 44-55. Then you head straight to the Upper parking area. The trail leading to Gertrude’s Nose is near the park’s visitor center.
Best Hikes Upstate New York Trail Map
We love to make maps. When they are organized efficiently, you are able to find hikes near you with just a quick glimpse. Feel free to save our Google Maps of the best hikes upstate New York for your next adventure.
The Google Map below is color-coded depending on what region the hiking trail is located.
- Green – Western New York
- Yellow – Finger Lakes/Southern Tier Region
- Purple – North Country
- Orange – Capital District
- Red – Mohawk Valley Region
- Grey – Hudson Valley
Is the Hiking Trail for Me?
After reading about all those spectacular hikes in New York State, you might ask yourself where to start. Finding a suitable hiking trail is important to have the best hiking experience. Not every hiking trail on the above best hikes in upstate New York list might be good for you. Here are some questions to consider to figure out if you should go on a certain trail:
- Where is the trail located?
- How do I get there?
- What is the difficulty level of the trail?
- How much time do I have?
- What landscape do I want to hike?
- How long am I looking to hike?
- What time of year am I hiking? Weather conditions?
- Who am I hiking with?
- What is my current fitness level?
What to Know Before Heading to the Best Hikes Upstate New York
1. Entrance Fees
To access some of the trailheads on our best hikes upstate New York list, you have to pay an entrance fee. These trailheads are mainly those which are located in New York State Parks and Preserve areas. The entrance fee for NYS parks varies but is usually between $6 and $10 per car for the day.
If you plan to visit one of the trails on the list which requires a fee, such as Minnewaska State Park, we would recommend spending the whole day in the park to connect as many trails as possible. Trails that can easily be done in one trip to Minnewaska State Park are Gertrude’s Nose, Lake Minnewaska Loop Trail, and Awosting Falls.
Top Tip: Purchase the Empire Pass for a one-time fee of $80 to get access to all State Parks in New York for a whole year.
2. Best Time for Hiking in Upstate New York
There are different adventures waiting for you in every season in New York. But from our experience, hitting the trails is the most fun in spring and fall, since you find perfect temperatures for hiking.
On top of that, New York fall draws hikers in with the beautiful fall foliage, while the spring attracts people to admire the rushing of the waterfalls in the Hudson Valley and the Finger Lake region.
Whenever you decide to go hiking, keep in mind that the weather in New York can be very drastic. The summers can be well close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, while it can get below freezing in the winter. Especially during those seasons, make sure to always bring the appropriate hiking gear for the current weather conditions.
3. Crowded Hiking Trails
Hiking in upstate New York is very popular which means the trails can be very crowded, especially during the spring and fall.
The trails we have had the most difficulty finding parking with are Breakneck Ridge Trail, Anthony’s Nose, and the trails at Sam’s Point Preserve. For the Indian Head and Rainbow Falls Trail, you even have to make a reservation.
To enjoy the trails without a huge crowd, do your best to avoid weekends and holidays. If these are the only times you are available to go hiking, we highly suggest getting to the trailheads as early as you can. Parking at the trails fills up quickly. We usually wait to do the more popular hikes when we know we can go during an unpopular and undesirable time.
One of those more unpopular times to go hiking in New York State is in the winter. The colder weather usually turns most hikers away from the trails. So if you don’t mind bundling up, try to hit some of the trails then. Just keep in mind that not all of the hikes will be suitable during that time of the year.
With these recommendations, you shouldn’t worry about the crowds too much. Even when you are unlucky finding a parking spot at one of the trails, there are plenty of other trails to choose from. A lot of hikes are in close proximity to each other, which gives you the chance to complete another adventure that day.
4. Leave No Trace
Please recreate responsibly. Anytime you are exploring and enjoying the outdoors, it is important to remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles. Respect and appreciate nature, so that future generations can enjoy the same beauty. If you aren’t familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, here they are:
- Plan Ahead & Prepare
- Travel on Durable Surfaces
- Properly Dispose of Waste
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Others
5. How to Get Around
If you are planning to hike the best trails in upstate New York, you will absolutely need a car. Most of the trails are kind of remote and not accessible by public transportation. In Western New York and the Hudson Valley, you will find some trails you can reach by train too. But the most common way to get around New York State is by the use of a personal vehicle.
If you cannot use your own car, our recommendation would be to rent one on rentalcars.com. We frequently use this site when we are in need of a rental car during our travels in the USA. The site is user-friendly and prices are reasonable.
Upstate New York Accommodations
Now that you know where the best hikes upstate New York are located, it is time to book your accommodation. With the trails being so widely dispersed throughout the state it can be a little overwhelming to figure out the best area to stay in. Here are our top suggestions of towns for a good night’s rest in the different regions in New York:
| New York State Regions | Towns To Stay |
| Western New York Region | Niagara Falls, Buffalo |
| Finger Lakes/Southern Tier Region | Ithaca, Watkins Glen |
| North Country Region | Lake Placid, Saranac Lake |
| Mohawk Valley Region | Cooperstown, Utica |
| Capital District Region | Saugerties, Lake George, Albany |
| Hudson Valley Region | Beacon, Cold Spring, New Paltz |
Which of the Best Hikes Upstate New York Do You Like the Most?
Let us know in the comments below!
Our Other Resources for Hiking in New York
- 13 Most Scenic Minnewaska State Park Trails
- 33 Most Beautiful Trails for Hiking in Hudson Valley
- Explore the Beautiful Awosting Falls Trail in Minnewaska State Park
- Stony Kill Falls: Best Kept Secret in Minnewaska State Park
- Beautiful Anthony’s Nose Hike: All You Need to Know
- How to See the Picturesque Indian Brook Falls
- How to Hike the Mysterious Cornish Estate Trail
- How to Hike the Dramatic Gertrudes Nose Trail
- Hiking Breakneck Ridge: How Tough Actually is this Hike
- The Ultimate Guide to 11 Best Cold Spring Hiking Trails
- 57 Spectacular Waterfalls in NY You Have to See
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