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Top 25
New York State Park
Hiking Destinations

 

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There are 178 state parks in New York.  Which state parks are the best for those looking to do some hiking? 

Here is our "Top 25 New York State Park Hiking Destinations"

Rank State Park Notes
1 Harriman

Over 200 miles of trails including the Appalachian Trail and the Long Path.

2 Bear Mountain

Where it all started for the Appalachian Trail back in 1923.  Numerous trails to explore.

3 Letchworth

Over 66 miles of hiking trails.  Letchworth Trail is unknown gem on the east side of park.

4 Hudson Highlands

Breakneck Ridge and Anthony's Nose are two of the most popular day hikes in the state.

5 Watkins Glen

One of the most famous of the New York State Parks.  The Gorge Trail passes 19 waterfalls.

6 Minnewaska

The park has 35 miles of old carriage roads and 25 miles of trails to hike and simply enjoy.

7 Taughannock Falls

215 foot waterfall is 33 feet higher than Niagara. Use the rim trails to explore the upper gorge.

8 Allegany

Over 90 miles of hiking trails including 20 miles of the North Country Trail / Finger Lakes Trail.

9 Robert Treman

Lucifer Falls as well as other waterfalls plus an old mill.  Very scenic swimming area.

10 Rockefeller

Views of the Hudson River and numerous miles of old carriage roads.

11 Sterling Forest

Old mines, ruins, a fire tower, Sterling Lake, 50+ miles of trails including the Appalachian Trail.

12 John Boyd Thacher

Hike the famous Indian Ladder Trail or the Long Path.  Panoramic Views await you.

13 Taconic

Take the South Taconic Trail to amazing views.  Hike into Massachusetts to Bish Bash Falls.

14 Buttermilk Falls

Beautiful waterfalls and gorge.  Don't forget about the upper park with its scenic Lake Treman.

15 Clarence Fahnestock

Hike along the Appalachian Trail and take in scenic views of Canopus Lake.

16 Stony Brook

Waterfalls, a gorge and pieces of the old railroad that once crossed the gorge.

17 Mine Kill

A nice waterfall, great views and a section of the Long Path to explore.

18 Whetstone Gulf

Many people are unaware of this amazing gorge located in the Tug Hill Region. 

19 Moreau Lake

Views of the Adirondacks and Hudson River along the Western Ridge Trail.

20 Bowman Lake

A section of the 562 mile Finger Lakes Trail travels through the park.  Hike the Kopac Trail.

21 Gilbert Lake

Take a hike to Lake of the Twin Fawns, Ice Pond and Spring Pond or walk around Gilbert Lake.

22 Clark Reservation

A geological wonder.  Hike the Lake Trail and the Cliff Trail - you shouldn't be disappointed.

23 Robert Wehle

Free entry to this park, over 20 miles of trails plus nice views from cliffs of Lake Ontario.

24 Fillmore Glen

Not as well known as the famous glen/gorge/waterfall state parks, but well worth the visit.

25 Wellesley Island

Surprising views of the St Lawrence River and some of the Thousand Islands await you.

 

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