Winter Hikes with Stunning Views in Westchester
No matter what season it is, you’re going to want to get the kids out of the house. In Westchester, you can get a little exercise, enjoy fresh air, and the beauty of nature by taking a hike. If you’re looking to go on a hiking trip in Westchester, there are plenty of trails where families can explore together, enjoy scenic views, and soak up the crisp winter air. Many parks and preserves offer programs for kids, or you can simply hike and explore on your own time. Happy exploring!
Psst.. check out Snowboarding, Skiing, and Snow Tubing Just a Short Drive from Westchester
Winter Hiking Tips
Many of our Westchester families don’t let cold temps deter them from heading out to enjoy a beautiful winter hike with some breathtaking views. For anyone trying a winter hike in Westchester for the first time, following a few simple tips can help you stay safe and fully enjoy the beauty around you. If this is your first time heading out for a winter hike, here are some tips provided by the National Parks Service that all hikers should keep in mind.
When you set out on a winter hike, prioritizing safety and preparedness can make all the difference. Equip yourself with snowshoes and traction devices to tackle icy conditions with confidence. Familiarize yourself with the trail conditions, as many paths may be unmarked and tricky to navigate, making strong route-finding skills essential for any person who is going on a hiking adventure in Westchester.
Pack a detailed map, ample plain and electrolyte-enhanced water, and nutritious, salty snacks to elevate your hiking experience. Dress in waterproof boots, gaiters, and appropriate winter gear, including a warm parka, hat, and gloves to keep cozy and dry. Don’t forget hiking poles for added stability, and carry emergency signals like whistles or signal mirrors for safety. Being well-informed and properly equipped transforms your family hikes in Westchester into a safer, more enjoyable adventure.
For the complete list of Winter Hiking Tips, head to www.nps.gov.
Winter Hikes in Westchester
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Westchester hiking trails offer a wide variety of terrain and scenic spots that are perfect for winter adventures. From gentle family-friendly paths to more challenging climbs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Cranberry Lake Preserve (West Harrison)
Enjoy hiking at this 190-acre park. During your hike, check out the history trail where you and your family will see a 19th-century farmhouse and early 20th-century stone-mining operation. Trails range from 1.1 miles to 2.4 miles where you can see ponds, live animals, and various plants. Note: restrooms are temporarily closed. Cranberry Lake Preserve, 1609 Old Orchard St, West Harrison, NY 10604.
Croton Gorge Park (Croton-on-Hudson)
Located at the base of the Croton Dam, you and your family will enjoy some spectacular views of the dam even before your scenic hikes in Westchester start! This 97-acre property encompasses many uphill and steady trails that’s also a favorite spot for sledding and skiing. Croton Gorge Park, 35 Yorktown Road, Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520
Teatown (Ossining)
Teatown hosts many events all-year long. Women can enjoy organized hikes with their Women Take to the Trails events, which are held every Wednesday. You can also hike and explore this 1,000-acre nature preserve on your own, which ranges from .8 miles to a challenging 6.5 miles. This is a great spot for family-friendly hiking in Westchester, offering both gentle and more advanced trails. Teatown, 1600 Spring Valley Road, Ossining, NY 10562.
Ward Pound Ridge (Pound Ridge)
Enjoy a beautiful hike at the County’s largest park. There is a combination of flat and hilly terrain, depending on the type of hike you are looking for. The area also has picnic areas and the nearby Trailside Museum for an educational and fun experience. Ward Pound Ridge, Route 35 and 121 South, Cross River, NY 10576.
Rockefeller State Park (Pleasantville)
Widely known for its slew of breathtaking hiking trails in westchester, this beautiful state park boasts 45 miles of scenic paths – mainly designed by John D. Rockefeller Jr. This includes access to Swan Lake, wooded paths, stone bridges, Pocantico River, and more. Enjoy walking, jogging, and cross-country skiing, as well as birding, hiking, and photography. If you are hiking in the late winter, enjoy the budding of native flowers and trees as well as peonies, which will bloom in early May. Rockefeller State Park, 125 Phelps Way, Pleasantville, NY 10570
Turkey Mountain Nature Preserve (Yorktown Heights)
This trail offers many options for a moderate to a challenging hike. Those up for a challenge should try the blue trail for the most stunning views on the top of the mountain. A favorite among locals, it’s known for providing some of the best Westchester winter hikes. Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
Rye Nature Center (Rye)
Rye Nature Center offers many programs for kids and families. Families looking for kid-friendly hikes in Westchester can explore six scenic trails here, including the Storybook Trail that winds behind the garden. Rye Nature Center, 873 Boston Post Road, Rye, NY 10580.
Greenburgh Nature Center (Scarsdale)
Enjoy some fun and interactive events at the Greenburgh Nature Center this winter. For hiking, you and your family can enjoy its five marked trails that range from one-tenth of a mile to over one-half of a mile. It’s a perfect spot for short winter hikes in Westchester. Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd, Scarsdale, NY 10583.
Zofnass Family Preserve (Pound Ridge)
Enjoy a day with your family hiking the largest of Westchester Land Trust’s preserves. Don’t forget your hiking boots as you take on its adventurous 7.5 miles of trails (there are shorter pathways as well). This preserve is also home to more than 400 plant species, which you might find budding during your winter/spring visit. You’ll find rugged terrain, stepping stones for crossing streams and wetlands, a stone staircase, and more, making it one of the best hiking spots in Westchester. Zofnass Family Preserve, 258 Upper Shad Road, Pound Ridge, NY 10576.
Muscoot Farm (Katonah)
While Muscoot is known as the go-to place to visit farm animals, the farm is also home to 777 acres of fields, woodlands, and wetlands. Enjoy a two-in-one adventure with your kids by exploring the farm and its vast grounds, perfect for combining a Westchester hiking experience with farm fun. Muscoot Farm, Route 100, Somers, NY 10536.
Westmoreland Sanctuary (Mount Kisco)
Enjoy access to 670 acres with 8.5 miles of interconnecting trails all-year long. Before you go, visit the Natural Science Museum where you can see live animals (including rabbits, birds, and turtles) and educational exhibits. Westmoreland Sanctuary, 260 Chestnut Ridge Road, Mount Kisco, NY 10549
The Henry Morgenthau Preserve (Pound Ridge)
The Henry Morgenthau Preserve is a remarkable 36-acre nature area along Blue Heron Lake that welcomes the public from sunrise to sunset. With its diverse ecosystems, including forest communities, wetlands, a small pond, vernal pools, and streams, it is an invaluable resource for nature lovers and families.
The preserve is committed to managing and protecting its natural beauty while offering educational programs, such as the Invasives Project, wildlife education at the summer day camp, the StoryWalk at the Town Park, and guided hikes with knowledgeable speakers. This makes it another excellent location for Westchester hiking adventures. 82 Pound Ridge Road, Pound Ridge, NY 10576
