From easy waterfront strolls with skyline views to scenic mountain climbs for teens, these kid-approved trails in NYC, New Jersey, Westchester, and Rockland make spring exploring simple and unforgettable.
After a brutally cold and snowy winter, spring is almost here! There’s no better way to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine than by exploring the great outdoors with your family, with long walks and hikes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a casual walk to enjoy nature, New York City and its surrounding areas offer a variety of family-friendly trails that are perfect for all ages and skill levels.
From scenic views of the Statue of Liberty to peaceful lakes and vibrant forests, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best hiking spots in and around NYC for your next spring adventure.
So, grab the kids, lace up your shoes, and get ready to explore the beauty of the season!
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At a Glance:
- Easy city park paths and waterfront walks
- Scenic Hudson River views and skyline backdrops
- Beginner-friendly loops for little hikers
- Moderate climbs for adventurous teens
- Picnic spots, wildlife, and local history along the way
New York City- Hiking Trails in City Parks
The Ramble
Central Park
Mid-Park between 73rd and 79th
The Ramble in Central Park is 36 acres of winding paths, trees, and hiding places. It is a great place to get lost in, but never leave the city. It is also perfect for birdwatching because this patch of greenery is a migratory stop for traveling birds.
Central Park also has other paths, such as the narrow Central Park Reservoir Loop. It is only for running or walking, and circles the Jackie Onassis Reservoir.
Kazimiroff Nature Trail
Pelham Bay Park
Middletown Road & Stadium Avenue
The Kazimiroff Nature Trail in Pelham Bay Park is a lovely 1.2-mile path where one can really study wildlife and scenery. The trail is on Hunter Island in the Bronx and runs through wetlands, forests, and ends on a beach.
You may also pass Hunter Mansion Garden. It is a beginner-level hike that is perfect for families who want their kids to explore nature firsthand.
Cass Gallagher Nature Trail
Van Cortlandt Park
Broadway and Van Cortlandt Park S, Bronx
Van Cortlandt Park is a great park to bring the little ones. This trail is a popular and easy 1.4-mile loop for beginners. It only takes a little more than 30 minutes to complete.
There are other trails at Van Cortlandt Park, such as the John Muir Nature Trail and the Van Cortlandt Park Trail, if you want a bit more of a challenge.
Rockland County- Hiking in State Parks
Pine Meadow Lake
Harriman State Park
Seven Lakes Dr / Bear Mountain Circle, Ramapo
Harriman State Park has many spectacular trails since it is the second-largest state park in New York. The Pine Meadow Lake 10-mile loop is perfect for admiring the forest and lake, especially if you are looking for some tranquility.
Another fun trail is the Lemon Squeezer (Island Pond Loop), where rock formations create a type of tunnel that will definitely excite the kids!
Lake Skenonto Loop
Harriman State Park
This 8.2-mile loop near Tuxedo Park is perfect for families who are avid hikers. Popular for backpacking, hiking, and running, this trail takes an average of 4 hours to complete. Pack a picnic, hop in the car, and hit the trails!
Westchester County- Hike with Scenic Views
Camp Smith Trail
28 Bear Mountain Bridge Road, Cortlandt
The Camp Smith Trail, specifically on Manitou Mountain, is a 4-mile loop that is a little bit of a workout for you and the kids, but it can always be made shorter.
The hike offers plenty of panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and plenty of photo opportunities. If you are up for a challenge with teens, Anthony’s Nose is near the Camp Smith Trail. The trail starts near the Bear Mountain Bridge Toll House and heads uphill pretty quickly, with lots of rocks and steep, stair-like sections along the way.
For families, it’s doable with older kids who are comfortable hiking, but it’s not stroller-friendly and can feel challenging in spots. The payoff is worth it: at the top, you’ll get incredible views of the Bear Mountain Bridge and the Hudson River.
New Jersey- Beginner and Challenging Hikes
Liberty Walkway
Liberty State Park
1 Audrey Zapp Dr., Jersey City
The Liberty Walkway may not be a typical hike, but it is great for families because it’s easy, flat, and has playgrounds along the way. The walkway is three miles out and back and offers superb views of the Statue of Liberty and the New York City skyline.
While walking or biking along the path, families can stop by a historic monument and a restored train station, giving kids a chance to learn a little local history along the way. The route also features benches for breaks, informational plaques about local wildlife, a nearby marina, and plenty of open grassy areas that are perfect for a relaxed picnic.
Cape Fly Away
Palisades Interstate Park
Alpine
Palisades Interstate Park is definitely worth the trek across the bridge for amazing trails near the coast of the Hudson River. The Cape Fly Away is an easy trail about 3 miles long.
It offers views of the riverfront and mild rocky terrain for the adventurous little one. There are other trails as well near the Alpine Boat Basin, where a hiker can get really close to the water.
Carpenter’s Loop
Fort Lee Historic Park
Hudson Terrace, Fort Lee
Carpenter’s Loop is a 5.5-mile path in Fort Lee Historic Park on the border of New Jersey. There is some slightly rough terrain with wonderful views of the George Washington Bridge.
On this path, a hiker will find a model Revolutionary War encampment, cliffs, the shore of the Hudson, and the New York City skyline.
Stairway to Heaven
Appalachian Trail
443 Vernon Warwick Rd, Vernon Township
Stairway to Heaven is a part of the Appalachian Mountain range in New Jersey. The hike is 2.9 miles out and back and is connected to Wawayanda Mountain. It is a moderate to challenging trail that offers a steep climb, great views of Pochuck Mountain and the Catskills, and a waterfall.
This is one of the most challenging hikes on this list, meant for teenagers. If this hike isn’t a good fit for your family, there are many other trail options in the Appalachian Mountain range where a hiker can pick and choose the length.
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