Uncover Top Five Scenic Hikes In The New York Tri-State Area

By Joanna Allen at Allen Batista Travel, Inc

Hikers will discover a treasure trove of hiking trails—rugged mountain terrain, river vistas, peaceful woods, and rippling waterfalls—in the New York tri-state area. Allen Batista Travel, Inc. spotlights five hiking destinations ranging from the dramatic rock scrambles to serene forest hikes for the beginner and experienced hiker to enjoy during the weekend.

Breakneck Ridge And Anthony’s Nose—Hudson Valley

Breakneck Ridge provides hikers with breathtaking views of the Hudson River on a trail located between Beacon and Cold Spring. The trail is known for its challenging rocky terrain. When hikers reach the top, they will see panoramic views of the Hudson River, Storm King Mountain, and the valley.

Anthony Nose is a milder yet equally rewarding hike that is just a few miles down the road. Located near the Bear Mountain Bridge, the trail slowly rises to a point overlooking a picturesque view of the bridge and the flowing river. Anthony's Nose is a less crowded, family-friendly trail in the Breakneck Ridge area.

Both hikes in the Hudson Valley demonstrate the natural beauty of this area and are well worth a day out of New York City.

Harriman State Park—Rockland and Orange Counties, NY

Harriman State Park is popular among those who enjoy the outdoors (it is more than 47,000 acres of land, with over 200 miles of hiking trails). New York State’s second largest state park boasts of thick forests, pristine lakes, and diverse landscapes that serve the less experienced and more experienced hikers.

The popular Appalachian Trail goes through the state park. The Pine Meadow Lake Trail sends hikers through quiet woods to a gorgeous lake, a perfect setting for a picnic. The Reeves Brook Loop Trail is another popular 4.4-mile trail with moderate elevation change; there are also a few waterfalls and panoramic lookouts.

The fall foliage here is a sight to behold; photographers flock here every year. However, the park is a four-season destination, offering snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during winter and hiking in the spring, summer, and fall.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area—New Jersey/Pennsylvania

Located at the border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has more than 109 miles of wilderness—easy river strolls and challenging mountain hikes.

The Mount Tammany Trail offers steep and rough terrain rising more than 1,200 feet. Nonetheless, the sight from the top is breathtaking to re-visualize the twisting Delaware River and its framing by cliffs.

The McDade Trail has a milder trail (through the forests and meadows) for those who want a less demanding hike. There are waterfalls, including Raymondskill Falls, the tallest in Pennsylvania, and Dingman Falls, which is easily viewed through borders.

Catskill Mountains and Kaaterskill Falls—Upstate New York

The Catskills have inspired artists, writers, and outdoor enthusiasts for a long time. Nestled only two hours north of New York City, this mountain range is a rugged, wild beauty that is quite difficult to find in the tri-state region. The Catskills feature dozens of mountains over 3,000 feet and hundreds of miles of trails and are top hiking territory.

Kaaterskill Falls is a must-visit waterfall in the area. The two-level waterfalls, which consist of a 260-plus-foot total drop, are awe-inspiring as well as photogenic.

The Devil Path is a challenging multi-day hike, and the Overlook Mountain path offers panoramic views of the Catskills.

Ramapo Mountain State Forest—New Jersey

The park has been a destination for day hikers, mountain bike enthusiasts, and dog walkers, with an area of more than six miles and more than 30 miles of trails.

Ramapo Lake Loop, a renowned 3.5-mile trail leading to a serene lake fringed by trees, offers fishing, birding, and even swimming spots during warmer seasons. The Castle Point Trail will treat the hiker to the Van Slyke Castle ruin, a dose of history, and panoramic views of the Ramapo Valley.
 
The short trails have varied elevation and scenic views, and the trails are popular with hikers seeking peace and solitude.

Where The Trails Lead

Whether hikers want to reconnect with nature, these five destinations are just starting points for nature. Strap on your boots, take your backpack, and explore the natural side of the tri-state, one trail at a time.

​Contact Allen Batista Travel, Inc to plan your next hiking adventure.