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By Nina Clapperton. This post on hiking near Toronto contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Are you looking for the best places to hike near Toronto? Then this is the guide for you!

Many people think Toronto is just the CN Tower, but there’s so much more to the city than concrete buildings. In fact, Toronto is near some amazing hiking trails that are perfect for beginners to experts!

You’ll find easy local walks with stunning views, like the Scarborough Bluffs, and bucket list hikes, like the Bruce Trail. No matter what type of hike you’re looking for, you’ll find an ideal trail near Toronto.

If you need help choosing between the best hikes near Toronto, this guide will help you decide. With detailed guides of all the best trails, you’ll find a hike that’s perfect for your ability.

Toronto is my home city, and I’m excited to share some of the best trails near Toronto here with you!

Pro tip: Before going hiking in Toronto, make sure to download the AllTrails app to have trail guides, maps, photos, and reviews right at your fingertips. You can also sign up for a free trial of AllTrails+ to download offline maps, get alerts for wrong turns, find trails by distance from you, and more!

Safety: Additionally, whether you’re hiking solo or in a group, it’s smart to keep safety in mind. One piece of advice is to carry a She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm, which features a 130db alarm and flashing strobe light designed to deter an attack. I also love the Garmin inReach Mini, a compact satellite communicator with SOS capabilities that can truly save your life in an emergency.

What Type Of Hiker Are You? [Free Quiz]

But first, before we go over the best hiking spots near Toronto, I want to share a free personality quiz I think you’ll love.

It’s called “What type of hiker are you?” and it will help you discover your hiking personality. Bonus: Your results also share trail suggestions based on your quiz responses!

Map Of Toronto

To help give you a lay of the land so you can better understand where each of the below Toronto hiking trails are located, here is a map of the city:

Click here for an interactive version of the above map with the best hikes around Toronto.

On that note, let’s dive into where to hike in Toronto and how to enjoy some of the best hikes in the world!

Best Places To Hike Near Toronto (By Destination)

Best Hikes In The Greater Toronto Area

1. Scarborough Bluffs

Trail Difficulty: Easy

Length: 6.8 kilometers (4.2 miles)

Trail Type: Out and back

Location: Scarborough, a district of Toronto located in the East End of the city. The area is best known for the Scarborough Bluffs and the Toronto Zoo.

Trailhead: The trail technically begins in the middle of the Scarborough Bluffs path. Put “Scarborough Bluffs Parking Lot” into your GPS to be taken to the lots by the marina. Start by heading west towards Bluffer’s Park, then loop back to go right towards Bluffer’s Beach.

Trail Map: Click here for a Scarborough Bluffs trail map

About This Toronto Trail:

The Scarborough Bluffs are the best hiking destination in Toronto. Located near Downtown Toronto, they’re very accessible by car or public transportation — and are even great for those hiking alone.

When you arrive at the Bluffs parking lot, you’ll have the option to turn right, which will take you along the Bluffers Hiking Trail to get the best view of the white sandstone cliffs. This easy path is very flat but can be challenging when you have to dodge all the visitors around midday.

If you turn left from the parking lot, you’ll reach Bluffer’s Beach. Go behind the beach to follow the Cathedral Cliffs trail, where you can walk beneath the towering sandstone cliffs. The walls of leaves and trees make you feel like you’re in a jungle rather than 20 minutes from the CN Tower.

For views over the Bluffs, you’ll need to walk up the road from the parking lot. It’s a steep incline with no footpath, so be careful of oncoming traffic. You cannot climb up the mud paths that you’ll see down the side of the cliffs. These are illegal paths that can result in fines of over $500 CAD.

Instead, wait until you hit the schoolyard, where you can turn onto a legal dirt path that will let you walk along the top of the Scarborough Bluffs safely.

You can do all three trails in one day and still have time for the beach.

Arrive before 10am to have the trails mostly to yourself. It makes these popular treks feel more magical when you’re not dodging mountain bikes and large groups of hikers.

2. High Park Area Trails

Trail Difficulty: Easy

Length: 5.1 kilometers (3.2 miles)

Trail Type: Loop

Location: High Park, the largest park in Toronto. The park is known for its greenery, small zoo, and stunning lake. It is best accessible from the High Park subway station or by driving and parking in the free lots.

Trailhead: The trail begins on Spring Road at Colbourne Lodge, although there are many access points throughout the trail.

Trail Map: Click here for a High Park Area Trails map

About This Toronto Trail:

High Park is the biggest park in Toronto. It encompasses two lakes, a mini zoo with local animals (and capybaras), a small cafe, numerous tennis courts, a pool, and 5.1 kilometers of amazing hiking trails.

Located in Etobicoke, a popular suburb in Toronto, High Park offers some of the best hiking trails in the city.

Families may prefer to walk the paved sidewalk trails that run the length of High Park and that don’t have as high of a risk for muddy shoes.

Dog parents will love the off-leash dog trails that are located at various points along the High Park trails. These areas are fenced in and have clearly marked signs so you can be sure you’re in the right place.

The best High Park trails are the outer paths that wind through the forests that surround the park. To access them, when you arrive at the main entrance of the park, turn left and follow the dirt path right beside the gate. It will lead you into the myriad of trails that loop around the park.

You can opt for flatter terrain by following the paths closer to the sidewalks; however, some trails do have a significant incline when they wind up toward the side roads.

When you reach the southern limits of the park, you will need to exit the trail and walk below the High Park river on the sidewalk. Then you will find the entrance to the other side of the trails.

This area is a haven for hikers, with less brush underfoot and massive Canadian maple trees that seem to stretch up for miles. Even in the heat of summer, this path is pleasantly cool thanks to the shade.

The trails are easy to find, easy to follow, and great for all manner of hikers. If you want a more advanced workout, jog along the paths — but watch out for tree roots!

Overall, High Park is one of my favorite places for hiking in Toronto Canada!

3. Humber River Recreation Trail

Trail Difficulty: Easy

Length: 10 kilometers (6.3 miles)

Trail Type: Out and back

Location: Humber River in Western Toronto, beside Bloor West Village. The area is known for its Eastern European bakeries, cute houses, and the salmon swimming upstream.

Trailhead: Across the bridge from the Old Mill Inn & Spa you will see a clear path to follow along the West side of the river.

Trail Map: Click here for a Humber River Recreational Trail map

About This Toronto Trail:

One of the best hikes in Toronto is rarely called by its actual name. People refer to it as anything from “the ravine” to “the Old Mill Trail”, depending on where they enter this hike.

The best way to access the Humber River Recreation Trail is from the entrance behind the Old Mill, where you can find a paid public parking lot to leave your car.

This trail has two paths: one for pedestrians and one for cyclists. The pedestrian path runs directly beside the paved cyclist path but is a mix of hard-packed dirt and gravel.

Take this hike to experience the incredible nature that is lurking around every corner when you visit Canada.

In the autumn, you can visit this trail to see the large Canadian salmon jumping upstream to get to their spawning ground. Every year, starting in September, the salmon make their way to jump up the waterfalls in the Humber River.

In the summer, you can see a variety of small Canadian animals and birds frolicking around the river. Among those wild animals, you’ll find dogs trying to chase some ducks on the shore and Canadian geese keeping people at bay.

This easy trail has year-round access due to its flat terrain. Moreover, this is considered one of the best winter hikes near Toronto as you’ll be able to see the frozen waterfalls suspended in mid-air.

The Humber River Recreation Trail follows the Humber River from Old Mill up to James Gardens. This walk will take you through a Canadian forest, past one of the longest rivers in the city, and into the most beautiful gardens you’ll find in Toronto.

James Gardens is a public park that features large natural ponds and flowing rivers, tiered gardens with seasonal blooms, and stunning backdrops for photos.

4. Glen Stewart Ravine

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate

Length: 1.3 kilometers (0.8 miles)

Trail type: Out and back

Location: The Beaches, an area East of Toronto known for the stunning white sand beaches and indie cafes. Visit to feel like you’re in Florida without leaving Toronto.

Trailhead: The trail begins at the intersection of Glen Manor Drive and Glen Manor Drive W. It does not begin in Glen Stewart Park, as this is a separate area.

Trail Map: Click here for a Glen Stewart Ravine trail map

About This Toronto Trail:

One of the undiscovered hiking trails in Toronto is in the Beaches neighborhood. This area located East of Downtown Toronto is a summer paradise that feels like going abroad without leaving the city.

The Glen Stewart Ravine Trail is a short walk from the main street of the Beaches. Grab a snack from Tori’s Bakeshop or a fresh-pressed juice to enjoy during this hike — or stop by afterward for a sweet treat when you’re heading home.

This trail may seem short at first, but you’ll quickly find yourself spending hours exploring this forested area in the middle of the suburbs.

The trail is made up of a boardwalk path that hovers over the ravine itself. You’ll avoid wet shoes if you stay on the path that stretches from one end of the ravine to the other.

The highlight of this trail — and the feature that lands it on this list of the best hikes near Toronto — is the stairways. These giant metal staircases help you climb to the height of the trees where you can get a serious workout and enjoy a view above the treetops of the smaller maples and pines.

Be sure to pause as you hike this trail to listen for the native bird song that’s especially rich on weekend mornings in the summer.

To make the most of this trail, walk in one direction then turn back so you leave from where you started. Be sure to climb at least two staircases to side paths so you can experience the beauty high above the ravine.

It’s definitely one of the best Toronto hikes with a view.

5. Lower Don River Trail

Trail Difficulty: Easy

Length: 6.8 kilometers (4.2 miles)

Trail Type: Out and back

Location: Don River Valley Park, East of Downtown Toronto. This park winds through the community, blending Toronto’s famous skyline with Canada’s natural beauty.

Trailhead: The trail begins by the Loblaws on Redway Road.

Trail Map: Click here for a Lower Don River Trail map

About This Toronto Trail:

One of the best hiking places near Toronto is the Lower Don River.

It is a hike and an art walk all in one. This trail will take you along the Don River to get stunning views of the CN Tower through the trees, and to see some of the unique sculptures that line the trail.

While this hiking trail isn’t the typical nature experience — as you may hear some noise coming from the Don Valley Parkway nearby — it offers a unique blend of city and nature-scapes.

The hike will take you past several different parks and side hikes along the way. If you do them all your hike can be extended to over 13 kilometers (8.1 miles).

This paved trail is smooth and easy to walk, going over bridges and old railway lines so you can see some different sides of the city.

It’s a very relaxing hiking destination at any time of the year — though the best time to visit is in autumn when the sumac trees bloom a colorful red and make a great backdrop for hiking selfies.

If you don’t have seasonal allergies, you’ll love the wildflowers that bloom in summer. The bright patches of goldenrods seem to turn the whole trail into the yellow brick road from the Wizard of Oz.

Hike past replica gargoyles that hang around Downtown Toronto, past scattered sculptures along the Viaduct, and take in the views of the fast-flowing Don River.

This is the perfect trail for a natural hike that still feels like it’s in Toronto.

6. Brickworks Trail

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate

Length: 1.9 kilometers (1.2 miles)

Trail Type: Loop

Location: Don River Valley Park, East of Downtown Toronto. This park winds through the community, blending Toronto’s famous skyline with Canada’s natural beauty.

Trailhead: Search for “Welcome to the Don Valley Brickworks” and follow the path.

Trail Map: Click here for a Brickworks Trail map

About This Toronto Trail:

The Brickworks Trail is one of the side trails that you can take off the Lower Don River Trail; however, you can also do it by itself.

This heavily wooded trail offers a short, but more challenging hike for people in the city of Toronto. You’ll walk around the river on a dirt path that allows for some of the best birdwatching in the city. It is filled with wildlife, from large squirrels crossing your path to frogs croaking in the distance.

Visit this trail mid-week to find it almost bare of people. You’ll feel like you’re in your own world, with only the sound of crackling leaves and chirping birds around you.

For the wanderers, climb the east Brickworks Park hill. From the top, you’ll get a great view over the park with a hint of the Toronto skyline in the distance.

This trail ends at the Evergreen Brickworks, a collection of old industrial buildings with the charm of Toronto’s Distillery District. The buildings now hold gardens that showcase sustainable development. On Saturdays, they host a lovely farmers market.

Best Hikes Near Toronto

7. Elora Gorge

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate

Length: 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles)

Trail Type: Loop

Location: The Elora Gorge Conservation Area is located outside of the town of Elora, in a provincial park. The park is home to white water rapids, a deep gorge, and amazing picnic spots. If you’re looking for trails north of Toronto, this one is about 90 minutes north of the city.

Trailhead: Hole in the Rock Scenic Lookout, at the entrance from the furthest parking lot in the Elora Gorge Conservation Area. Follow signs for the Elora Gorge hiking trails.

Trail Map: Click here for an Elora Gorge trail map

About This Toronto Trail:

Elora Gorge is one of the best hiking trails outside Toronto City.

This hiking trail is also in one of the most beautiful provincial parks near Toronto. You’ll find a deep gorge with a crystal blue river running quickly over rapids. Towering above the gorge are the large trees Canada is famous for, with peekaboo views of the running water below.

Many people visit Elora to picnic or go tubing along the fast-flowing river below the rapids. They stop for a lookout, then continue home without exploring the beautiful wooded trails that run alongside the gorge.

Pack a lunch and prepare for a half-day hike, where you can follow the Elora River down the gorge, even meeting it at the bottom to go for a brisk swim on a pebbled beach.

To extend the hike, cross the bridge halfway where people begin their tubing adventure. You can continue on another trail on the other side of the gorge for more spectacular lookouts.

Be sure to stop to admire the views regularly! They’re all remarkably different, with some bearing the telltale rust-red color of the Canadian shield along the gorge and others bearing a limestone resemblance to the Scarborough Bluffs.

The trail is mostly free of debris, but once you pass the bridge the dirt trail does become thinner with more roots and small declines. Watch your footing here, especially on a wet day.

8. Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area: Nassagaweya and Bruce Trail Loop

Trail Difficulty: Easy

Length: 8.6 kilometers (5.3 miles)

Trail Type: Loop

Location: Milton, a small town in Southern Ontario that is 45 minutes west of Toronto.

Trailhead: Rattlesnake Point Gatehouse, which is searchable on your GPS.

Trail Map: Click here for a Nassagaweya and Bruce Trail Loop map

About This Toronto Trail:

Looking for the best hike near Toronto and a cultural experience? Head to Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area where you can cross the Nassagaweya Canyon and explore a reconstructed Iroquoian Village.

Budget four-to-five hours to complete this trail so you can stop at the five lookout points, where you’ll be able to admire sheer cliffs, caves, talus slopes, and glacial deposits. You’ll also see Crawford Lake, a meromictic lake where the waters from the top and bottom do not mix.

If you’d like a full-day hike at Rattlesnake Point, take one of the extra trails that extend along the edge of the cliffs. You can add 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) to your hike if you do them all!

The cliffs at Nassagaweya Canyon rival the beautiful vistas in Algonquin Park, much further north of Toronto. You’ll get the sense that you’re hundreds of miles from civilization without having to drive very far.

Visit in early autumn to experience the changing of the leaves while the lake is still a stunning blue. The bright colors look like a kaleidoscope that you won’t be able to turn away from.

Warning: This trail gets dangerous when it’s wet, as the cliffs don’t have any rope barriers. Stay well away from the edge and wear proper hiking boots and hiking clothing.

9. Mount Nemo Loop

Trail Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 8.7 kilometers (5.4 miles)

Trail Type: Loop

Location: Milton, a small town in Southern Ontario that is 45 minutes west of Toronto.

Trailhead: The trail starts on Colling Road off of Guelph Line 1.

Trail Map: Click here for a Mount Namo Loop trail map

About This Toronto Trail:

Mount Nemo, located near Rattlesnake Point, is the quieter alternative to the popular Rattlesnake Point. Hikers love this trail that offers a peaceful sanctuary with a mildly challenging hike.

There are several ways to experience Mount Nemo. If you’re a rock climber, you should scale the unique cliff edge system for a fun adventure.

Bird watchers should bring binoculars to watch the turkey vultures float on the thermals. If you’re not afraid of the dark, try caving at Mount Nemo to see what lies beneath the earth in Toronto.

Hike to the top of Mount Nemo for panoramic views of the escarpment. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the CN Tower!

One of the things that makes Mount Nemo the best hike near Toronto is the wildlife. In spring and summer, you’ll be hiking alongside butterflies who drift toward the wildflowers.

Alternatively, hike Mount Nemo in the winter to see a frozen forest paradise. The soft flurries of snow look picture-perfect with the frozen branches of the forest, making it one of the best winter hikes near Toronto.

10. 99 Steps Trail

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate

Length: 1.1 kilometers (0.7 miles)

Trail Type: Loop

Location: Thornton Bales Conservation Area, Newmarket, about one hour north of Toronto.

Trailhead: 19th Sideroad, King, ON. Follow the signs into the parking lot.

Trail Map: Click here for a 99 Steps Trail map; note that it is also called the Thornton Bales Conservation Area Lower Loop

About This Toronto Trail:

Outdoor workouts are just better, right?

If you think so, you’ll love the 99 Steps Trail near Toronto!

Located in the Thornton Bales Conservation Area, the 99 Steps Trail gained temporary fame in 2020 when people needed an outdoor area for a workout. Now, it’s quieted down so you can climb the stairs without worrying about hoards of people seeing you huffing and puffing.

The rugged trails of Thornton Bales Conservation Area make it a great, challenging workout. You’ll feel like you’re scaling a mountain in some far-off forest, rather than being a short drive from the city.

The 99 Steps Trail is the start of the conservation area. It is well maintained with thick wooden steps that are easy to walk or jog up and down. But you’ll still need good hiking shoes.

The vertical elevation will make you sweat; you’ll be climbing higher than the drop of Niagara Falls!

You can visit this trail — which is one of the best hiking trails outside of Toronto — year-round to enjoy the heart-racing climb.

Once you’ve reached the top, explore some of the conservation area. It is so fun to hike in the fall when you can crunch multicolored leaves beneath your feet as you enjoy a crisp breeze.

11. Bruce Trail: Toronto Section

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate

Length: 50.5 kilometers (31.4 miles)

Trail Type: Point to point

Location: Milton, 90 minutes west of Toronto.

Trailhead: Campbellville Road and Appleby Line intersection.

Trail Map: Click here for a map of the Toronto section of the Bruce Trail

About This Toronto Trail:

The Bruce Trail is undoubtedly the best hike near Toronto and one of the best hikes in Ontario overall.

It’s also the most challenging hike. Technically, the whole hike spans Toronto to Tobermory, a distance of nearly 500 kilometers (311 miles). The record holder took nine days to traverse it, but many people take months.

This section of the trail starts closer to Toronto and can be done in a day or two, depending on your speed.

The trail winds through Hilton Falls and Limehouse Conservation Areas where you’ll have a chance to spot some local Canadian wildlife.

You’ll end near the Cheltenham Badlands, a unique geographical location that offers incredible landscape views. It feels a bit like walking on Mars due to the red sandy surface of the area.

In my opinion, it’s more fun to hike the Bruce Trail as a group. Luckily, The Toronto Club offers free group hikes where you only have to contribute to the carpool for gas. Then you’ll have an expert guide who can help point out the unique views and what side trails are worth exploring.

12. Dundas Peak Trail

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate

Length: 2.9 kilometers (1.8 miles)

Trail Type: Loop

Location: Hamilton, 45 minutes west of Toronto.

Trailhead: Tew Falls Conservation Area parking lot.

Trail Map: Click here for a Dundas Peak Trail map

About This Toronto Trail:

If you’re looking for some of the best waterfall hikes near Toronto, the Dundas Peak Trail is a local favorite.

This beautiful forest path costs $10 for parking and has a $5 entrance fee per person. This allows you two hours to enjoy the area, which is more than enough time to see the highlights and stop at vistas.

Start the hike at Tew Falls, a 41-meter (135-foot) high waterfall that is nearly the size of Niagara Falls. You can get a better view by standing on one of the two viewing platforms so you can look down into the gorge below.

Then follow the stairs to the upper lookout to begin the hike.

The hike takes about one hour and is a complete loop. You’ll want to stop halfway up the trail to check out the viewing platform of the gorge and to take some stunning photos. In autumn, the leaves are alight with colors that make the perfect Instagram backdrop.

The top of Dundas Peak is the real reason for the hike. At the top, you’ll get an incomparable view of Hamilton Harbour, Dundas, and Ancaster.

Visit in summer or fall to see the fluffy foliage that covers the hillside. You may even spot some rabbits if you visit in early summer!

What To Bring When Hiking In Toronto

To help you enjoy your Toronto hiking experience to fullest, here is a packing list:

Rain jacket, even if the weather doesn’t call for rain

Good hiking shoes or boots

Minimum 1L of water

High protein snacks or meals that you can easily carry

A hiking backpack, preferably with straps so you can buckle it for ergonomic support

Your phone

A camera to take awesome hiking pictures

A tripod to take solo hiking pictures

Sunblock, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from Toronto’s intense solar rays

Bug spray

A map — either digital or physical

Moisture wicking layers

Long pants are a good idea in more wild trails, where there is a risk of ticks

Toronto Hiking Tips

Hiking around Toronto is truly a unique experience, but it can be even better when you know the following tips:

-Always bring water. People underestimate how hot it gets in Canada, but Toronto regularly gets to 30°C (86°F) in the summer.

-Have extra sunscreen and sun protective layers ready for summer and autumn hiking.

-Stay on designated trails. The hiking trails often have wildlife, erosion, and poisonous plants that can be harmful to you.

-Check the weather before you head for the trail to ensure you are dressed appropriately. You will likely need layers, a rain jacket, and extra socks for any Toronto hiking trail.

-Plan your route ahead of time and tell someone where you’re going, especially if you’re hiking or traveling solo. Cell service can be limited on the trail, but sharing a pin location can help your family or friends determine where you are.

-Have a battery pack for your phone and/or camera. You don’t want to lose conenction to people or be frustrated that you can’t take photos of the stunning scenery.

-Always wear closed-toe shoes that have good traction and support. Even beginner trails can lead to injury if you’re wearing the wrong footwear.

-Never feed wild animals on trails. Even squirrels can cause issues if you start to feed them.

-Pack plenty of snacks and/or a meal to have during your trek. You’ll work up a big appetite on the best hikes near Toronto.

Adventure & Hiking Tours Around Toronto

After enjoying some of the best places to hike near Toronto, continue exploring through adventurous tours like:

Bruce Peninsula Day Trip from Toronto

Algonquin Provincial Park Day Tour from Toronto

Exhilarating 120km Aerial Tour of Toronto with iflyTOTO

Niagara Falls Day Trip from Toronto with Niagara Boat

Guided Bicycle Tour – Toronto Waterfront, Island and Distillery

Click here for a full list of Toronto tours!

Toronto Hotels

Looking for a place to stay on your Toronto hiking trip?

Click here for a full list of Toronto hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays and experiences:

Renting A Car In Toronto

Many hikers to Toronto like to rent a car, as it allows them to explore the city’s many hiking trails and attractions on their own time.

And if you need to rent a car, I highly recommend using Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% using their tool!

Travel Insurance For Your Toronto Hiking Trip

When visiting Toronto — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking in Toronto

Q) Is Toronto good for hiking?

Yes, Toronto is good for hiking. It has some of the best hiking trails in the world.

Q) What are the best hiking trails in Toronto?

Some of the best hiking trails in Toronto are Scarborough Bluffs, Humber River Recreation Trail and Glen Stewart Ravine.

Q) What is the best season to hike in Canada?

The hiking season in Canada is from May to October.

What best places to hike near Toronto would you add to this list?

About The Author

This guest post on Toronto hiking is by Canadian travel blogger Nina Clapperton from Nina Out and About. Nina was born in Toronto and enjoys getting outdoors to hike in her home city and beyond. Join her on Facebook to find out more about adventures in Canada.

Enjoyed this guide to the best hiking trails near Toronto? Pin these Toronto hikes for later!

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By Alex Schnee. This guide to hiking on Long Island contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for the best places to hike on Long Island?

During my time living on Long Island, I was pleasantly surprised to discover some truly incredible local hikes — all of which also make for great day trips from New York City.

Simply hop on the Long Island Railroad, and soon enough you’ll be immersed in nature, whether you want to hike among seals, bird-watch while trekking, or take in Atlantic Ocean views.

Curious about which Long Island hiking trails might be best for you?

There are plenty of choices depending on what you are looking for. Here is a list of where to hike on Long Island! I’m sharing some of my personal favorites.

Lace-up your hiking boots and let’s hit the trail!

Pro tip: Before going hiking on Long Island, make sure to download the AllTrails app to have trail guides, maps, photos, and reviews right at your fingertips. You can also sign up for a free trial of AllTrails+ to download offline maps, get alerts for wrong turns, find trails by distance from you, and more!

Safety: Additionally, whether you’re hiking solo or in a group, it’s smart to keep safety in mind. One piece of advice is to carry a She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm, which features a 130db alarm and flashing strobe light designed to deter an attack. I also love the Garmin inReach Mini, a compact satellite communicator with SOS capabilities that can truly save your life in an emergency.

How To Get To Long Island From NYC

Getting to Long Island from NYC is easy thanks to public transportation options.

First of all, there is the Hampton Jitney, which is a bus that goes to Eastern Long Island from various stops in New York City.

Moreover, there is the Long Island Railroad, which leaves from New York City’s Pennsylvania Station and goes all over the island, as you can see in this Long Island Railroad map:

Schematic diagram of Long Island Rail Road services and stations

You can also click here for a Long Island Railroad Map PDF.

One thing to note is that if using public transportation to get to a hiking trail on Long Island you’ll likely have to call an Uber, Lyft, or taxi to get you to and from the train station stop and the trailhead.

For this reason, it’s recommended to look into driving or renting a car — which also allows you to explore other highlights of the destination, like Long Island wine country, the many beaches, and the many farms and orchards.

To find the best deals on rental cars, Discover Cars allows you to save up to 70% on your rental just by comparing your options!

Depending on your budget, simply doing Uber to and from NYC might be a worthwhile option, too.

What Type Of Hiker Are You?

Now, before we dive into the Long Island hiking trails, I want to invite you to take my free hiking personality quiz.

Answer a few short and fun questions and your results will share what type of hiker you are. Moreover, each hiking persona comes with suggested hikes around the world!

Best Places To Hike On Long Island

On that note, let’s dive into our Long Island travel guide, which shares some truly scenic Long Island hikes. Most of these spots are also great for those hiking alone as they’re safe, not too technical, and are well-trafficked.

Best Hikes On Long Island In Suffolk County

1. Montauk Point State Park (Seal Haul Out Hike)

Length: 1.6 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 30 minutes

Elevation gain: 55 feet

Trail type: Out-and-back

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Seal Haul Out Hike map

Getting here from NYC: If you are planning on doing this hike from NYC, you’ll want to take a train from Penn Station to the last stop in Montauk. From the train station, it’s a 15-minute taxi/Uber to the trail. If you’re driving, you can park on the shoulder of Camp Hero Road, just off Montauk Highway (Route 27).

Tour option from NYC: You can also book this private tour from NYC that includes visiting Montauk!

About this beach trail:

Seal Haul Out is a hike that can be enjoyed at the very end of Long Island in Montauk, within Montauk Point State Park. This is one of the best places to hike on Long Island for many reasons.

For instance, it offers a great opportunity to see adorable seals — a true highlight of any New York State travel guide!

You can see them both from the beachfront and also from a nearby observation tower after you have completed the trail to Montauk Point.

The best time to visit is from the late fall to early spring, as this offers your best chances at seeing seals.

Be prepared for relatively easy and scenic hiking.

If you love wildlife, you’ll likely agree that this is one of the best places to hike in the world.

2. Montauk Point State Park (Money Pond Trail)

Length: The Money Pond Trail is an additional 1.2 miles from Seal Haul Out (so about 3 miles in total)

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 1 hour

Elevation gain: 144 feet

Trail type: Loop (it brings you back to the trailhead that connects both Money Pond Trail and Seal Haul Out)

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Money Pond Trail map

Getting here from NYC: Like Seal Haul Out, you will want to take the train from Penn Station to the last stop in Montauk. From there, it is a 15-minute Uber or taxi ride to the trailhead.

About this unique hike:

If you want to extend your hike from Seal Haul Out, keep walking along the Money Pond Trail to wander into a beautiful forest. It’s one of my favorite and shortest hikes in Long Island!

Pro tip:

Consider wearing your boots since this area can get a bit muddy during certain times of the year. Knowing what to wear when you go hiking is always important.

Along with a few hills, there is the actual “money pond” — as in, it is one of the places where Captain William Kidd hid his treasure.

Rumor also has it that the pond is bottomless, though I don’t recommend trying to find out.

Regardless, it’s a nice way to keep hiking in the village of Montauk.

3. Sunken Meadow State Park (Sunken Meadow Trail)

Length: 4.2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Estimated time: 1.5 hours

Elevation gain: 403 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Sunken Meadow State Park trail map

Getting here from NYC: You will want to take the Port Jefferson train from Penn Station to Kings Park. From there, you can take a 4-minute Uber or taxi ride to reach the trailhead.

About this loop trail:

Some of the best Long Island hiking trails take you right by the water of the Long Island Sound.

The Sunken Meadow Trail is a few miles long with some hills, making it a little more challenging than some of the other options you might consider when heading out east for a hike.

Be on the lookout for various species of wildflowers and make sure to pack a picnic lunch that you can share with a friend on the Long Island Sound.

The views are truly beautiful, so you’ll want to take your time and really soak them up.

Bonus: Consider taking your furry pal along, as this Long Island hike is dog-friendly!

4. Cold Spring Harbor State Park (Nassau-Suffolk Trail: Cold Spring Harbor to Uplands Farm Sanctuary Trail)

Length: 5.2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Estimated time: 2.5 hours

Elevation gain: 839 feet

Trail type: Out-and-back

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Nassau-Suffolk Trail map

Getting here from NYC: From Penn Station, take the Port Jefferson train to Huntington Station. Once you arrive, you can either hop on the H10 bus and ride for 16 minutes, or take an Uber or taxi for 9 minutes and you’ll be dropped off right at the entrance.

About this day hike:

For more challenging hiking in Long Island, Cold Spring Harbor State Park has an uphill trail called the Cold Spring Harbor to Uplands Farm Sanctuary that offers a view overlooking its famous namesake harbor.

And with over 40 acres, there is a lot to explore.

This Long Island trail can be completed in an afternoon, so you can have plenty of time to head back to New York City when you’re done — though don’t forget to check out some of the incredible mansions in the area on your way out.

A few favorites include the famous Oheka Castle — where you can pop in for a drink at their grand bar — and the historic Hewitt House, built in 1815.

You’ll need to have a car, but seeing these estates reminds you of The Great Gatsby, which takes place on Long Island’s Gold Coast.

5. Long Island Greenbelt Trail

Length: 32 miles

Difficulty: Difficult

Estimated time: Start early and give yourself a full day to complete this hiking trail

Elevation gain: 888 feet

Trail type: Out-and-back

Trailhead: This Long Island trek starts in Heckscher State Park (trail map here) and ends in Sunken Meadow State Park, passing through a number of state parks along the way

Map: Click here for a trail map of the north section and click here for a trail map of the south section

Getting here from NYC: You’ll want to take the Ronkonkoma line from Penn Station. Once you arrive in Central Islip, take an Uber or taxi to the trailhead.

About this fun LI trail:

Hiking trails in Suffolk County are often overlooked for Upstate New York hikes; but, there are some amazing options that can be explored here, too.

One top Suffolk County hiking pick is the Long Island Greenbelt Trail, which runs 32 miles along the Nissequogue and Connetquot Rivers.

Some of the trail features boardwalk while the other areas are sand, giving you two very different hiking experiences.

It also has several trails that split off from the main one, making it a spot you can go back to again and again to continue finding new things.

You can complete the whole trail in a day if you want, or you can choose to hike in and back depending on how much time you have and how much physical activity you want.

6. Blydenburgh County Park (Stump Pond Loop Trail)

Length: 6.1 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 2 hours

Elevation gain: 187 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Blydenburgh County Park Stump Pond Loop trail map

Getting here from NYC: Just like getting to the Long Island Greenbelt Trail, you’ll want to take the Ronkonkoma line from Penn Station to Central Islip. Grab an Uber or taxi from there to take you to the main entrance.

About this easy route:

For some more amazing Suffolk County hiking trails, you’ve got to check out Blydenburgh County Park, one of the best places to hike on Long Island if you’re a nature lover.

Along with winding trails like the Blydenburgh County Park Stump Pond Loop, it also offers additional active adventures like horseback riding, bird-watching, fishing, and more — including options for kids.

Moreover, it’s dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pet along for the fun.

For a great family-friendly hiking option, the 6-mile walk around New Mill Pond is an easy and scenic stroll, particularly in fall when you can see the changing foliage.

You’ll likely also see lots of swans, ducks, swans, Canada geese, and other waterfowl.

7. Cedar Point County Park (Cedar Point Lighthouse Loop)

Length: 5.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Elevation gain: 180 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Cedar Point Lighthouse Loop trail map

Getting here from NYC: Take the Montauk line from Penn Station to East Hampton. From there, you will want to take a 12-minute Uber or taxi ride to the entrance of the park.

About this easy route:

This abandoned lighthouse held a solid presence in the 1800s and was the beacon of light between the Cedar and Shelter Islands that helped ships safely navigate to shore.

Cared for by Charles Mulford, it holds a creepy story involving peg legs and a fire.

Mulford himself wore a peg leg, and after collecting these wooden prosthetics from all the local shops and hiding them in the lighthouse, Charles later set them on fire to cover his tracks.

No one knows quite why he did it other than he was a bit of a character.

You can hike the Cedar Point Lighthouse Loop which covers 5.3 miles and offers an easy walk along the ocean.

If you wish to continue on after the lighthouse, you can also head to Gardiners Bay and Sag Harbor for more history and natural beauty.

8. Caleb Smith State Park (Caleb Smith Pink and Red Loop)

Length: 1.7 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 35 minutes

Elevation gain: 108 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a digital map of Caleb Smith State Park

Getting here from NYC: Take the Port Jefferson line from Penn Station until you reach Smithtown. The park is walkable from the train station.

About this easy route:

For those who love learning about unique local plants, this Smithtown park offers a chance to see Indian Pipe, Trailing Arbutus, Pink Lady Slipper, and much more.

With 545 acres, you have plenty of space for hiking or taking pictures as well as discovering some of the local flora and fauna on Long Island.

It also has a 3.7-mile portion of the Long Island Greenbelt Trail and the easier Caleb Smith Pink and Red Loop at 1.7 miles.

Along with a large lake, you also have the opportunity to spot herds of deer and to fish if you have the proper gear.

If you bring your car, it is $8 to park for the day.

9. West Hills County Park (Walt Whitman Trail)

Length: 8.2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Estimated time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Elevation gain: 81 feet

Trail type: Out-and-back

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a PDF trail map of this Long Island park

Getting here from NYC: This Long Island hike is easy to get to using public transportation, as you can take the Long Island Railroad from Penn Station to Huntington. From there it’s about a 12-minute taxi or Uber ride.

About this unique hike:

Long Island nature walks tend to be packed with history, and this one is no different.

Known as a favorite of poet Walt Whitman, you can follow the wooded paths to Jayne’s Hill — located right near where Whitman was born.

As a child, Whitman is said to have loved climbing the hill, which is the highest point on Long Island at 400 feet above sea level.

Oh, and the hill is said to be haunted by Whitman’s ghost, so you may want to bring a trail buddy on this Long Island hike just in case.

Another reason to visit West Hills County Park:

The stunning views of the surrounding area, including marshes and the West Hills Nature Preserve on the West Hills County Park Loop trail.

10. Hither Hills State Park (Walking Dunes Trail)

Length: 2.7 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 1 hour

Elevation gain: 59 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: This Long Island trail begins near Iodine Beach (Google Maps location here)

Map: Click here for a Walking Dunes Trail map

Getting here from NYC: Take the Montauk line from Penn Station to East Hampton. After arriving, you can hop on the 10C bus to the trailhead; however, keep in mind that it only runs five times a day. If this doesn’t align with your schedule, it might be easier to take an Uber or taxi to the entrance.

About this easy route:

Did you know that there are sand dunes for hiking on Long Island?

Along the coastline, shifting sand dunes rise up and down, leading into a barren forest on the Walking Dunes Trail, which is one of many trail options in Hither Hills State Park.

The park also has a number of different animal species like osprey and red-tailed hawks that are often difficult to see elsewhere on the island.

This moderate hike offers something very different than your traditional Long Island hiking spots and a beautiful view of the Napeague Harbor.

Stay overnight at the Hither Hills Campsite to continue the fun into the next day, too!

11. Quogue Wildlife Refuge (Red, Yellow, and Green Loop)

Length: 3.1 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 1 hour

Elevation gain: 55 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Red, Yellow, and Green Loop trail map

Getting here from NYC: You’ll want to get on the Montauk train from Penn Station until you reach West Hampton. From there, it’s a 6-minute Uber or taxi ride to the entrance.

About this easy route:

Another great spot for viewing wildlife, the Quogue Wildlife Refuge has plenty of foxes, songbirds, fishes, eagles, and more.

It also has more than seven miles of hiking and 300 acres of open space.

Looking for some easy Long Island hiking?

There are a number of shorter trails, like the Red, Yellow, and Green Loop. This Long Island hike showcases a clear lake that is perfect for a picnic.

While all color coded trails in the Red, Yellow, and Green Loop are connected, you have a choice of which one you want to explore. All are easy.

Along with an included nature center, yoga classes are available during the summer.

12. Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve (Caumsett State Historic Park Perimeter Loop)

Length: 5.2 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 2 hours

Elevation gain: 334 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Caumsett State Historic Park Perimeter Loop trail map

Getting here from NYC: You’ll want to take the train toward Port Jefferson to Cold Spring Harbor. From there, it is a 20-minute Uber or taxi ride from the station to the preserve.

About this loop trail:

Whether you are looking for paved walking trails on Long Island or one that weaves through the woods, you can find it within the 1,750-acre grounds of Caumsett State Park.

The Caumsett State Historic Park Perimeter Loop is 5.2 miles and goes through the entire park, taking hikers to the edge of the Long Island Sound.

It also offers other sights like salt marshes, a dairy complex, fishing, horseback riding, and more.

For a relaxed day at the beach, you can also hike to Fiddler’s Green Beach or East Beach and spend the day before following the loop back to the parking lot. All of these beaches are accessible from the trail.

13. David A. Sarnoff Preserve (Paumanok Path)

Length: 20.7 miles (though the entire trail is much longer)

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Estimated time: 7 hours

Elevation gain: 1,066 feet

Trail type: Out-and-back

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Paumanok Path trail map

Getting here from NYC: This segment of the Paumanok Path is located in Riverhead, New York. Located about 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from NYC, there are several parking areas throughout the preserve.

Alternatively, you can ride the LIRR to Riverhead, which takes about 2 hours from Penn Station. From Riverhead Station, it’s about a 5-minute taxi or Uber ride.

About this beautiful trail:

One of the best trails on Long Island is Paumanok Path, a 120-mile hiking trail on Long Island that begins in Rocky Point and ends in Montauk Point State Park.

While there are many different segments that you can hike, this particular section is a popular one.

Part of the trail passes through the David A. Sarnoff Preserve in Riverhead, a scenic nature preserve that is known for being a bird sanctuary, though you can also see other animals.

Some wildlife to look out for on the trail include eastern towhee, common nighthawk, whip-poor-will, brown thrasher, blue-winged warbler, white-tailed deer, red foxes, and box turtles.

Plan a full day for this moderately challenging albeit hilly Long Island hike, which takes you along a 20-mile piece of the Paumanok Path showcasing beautiful views of ponds and pine barrens.

14. Connetquot River State Park Preserve (Blue Trail)

Length: 8.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 4 hours

Elevation gain: 82 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Connetquot River State Park Preserve Blue Trail map

Getting here from NYC: Connetquot River State Park Preserve is located in Oakdale, about 1 hour and 35 minutes from New York City by car. Parking is available at the state park and costs $8 per car.

If taking the train, take the LIRR from Penn Station to Great River. From the train station, it’s about a 30-minute walk or 7-minute taxi or Uber to the trailhead.

About this loop trail:

Connetquot River State Park Preserve is the largest state park on Long Island. Located in Suffolk County, it’s home to 3,473 acres of preserved land, water, and wildlife.

Visitors can spot rare nesting birds like osprey as well as other birds, fish, and animals — like deer!

There are also more than 50 miles of hiking and nature trails at Connetquot River State Park Preserve, including the Blue Trail.

This popular trail is considered an easy hike that is mostly flat. The trail is sandy, so be sure to wear proper footwear.

If you’re looking for a long hike that is not too difficult, this is a great one to do. It’s truly one of the best places to walk on Long Island.

15. Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve (Trail Loop)

Length: 3.9 miles

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Estimated time: 2 hours

Elevation gain: 22 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for an Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve Trail Loop map

Getting here from NYC: Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve is one of the most convenient Long Island walking trails from NYC. It’s a 1 hour and 10-minute drive from the city, or you can take the Long Island Railroad from Penn Station on the Ronkonkoma Branch to Deer Park station. From here, the preserve is just a short walk away.

About this beautiful hike:

If you’re looking for one of the best nature walks on Long Island, the trail loop at Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve is a great one to check out.

This multi-use trail allows both hikers and bikers.

Located in Deer Park, the preserve features 813 wooded acres that provide a peaceful oasis in the center of Long Island.

This is a great place to go to enjoy a walk through the woods, and you should keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like warblers, red-tailed hawks, eastern cottontails, red foxes, and hognose snakes.

Dogs are welcome on this trail as long as they are kept on a leash.

16. Sears Bellow County Park (Hubbard County Park Trail)

Length: 2.6 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 1 hour

Elevation gain: 29 feet

Trail type: Out-and-back

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Hubbard County Park Trail map

Getting here from NYC: This trail is located in Hampton Bays, a hamlet on Long Island that’s about a 2 hour and 10 minute drive from NYC. There are several parking areas in the park where the trail is located.

If you prefer the train, take the LIRR from Penn Station to Hampton Bays, which takes about 2.5 hours. From the train station, it’s about 30-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi or Uber to the trailhead.

About this Long Island hiking trail:

Sears Bellow County Park and Hubbard County Park are two adjacent parks in Hampton Bays with unique scenery, including low-lying wetlands and several ponds.

The Hubbard County Park Trail stretches 2.6 miles across the parks, taking hikers past freshwater ponds, grasses, pinewoods, and wildlife.

This is considered to be an easy trail that is one of the best hiking trails on Long Island NY due to its beautiful scenery; however, keep in mind that waterproof boots may be required on parts of this trail, especially if it’s been raining recently.

The trail is in a low-lying wetlands area, so it can get extremely muddy. But as long as you come prepared with the proper footwear, you’ll have a great time.

17. David Weld Sanctuary (Loop Trail)

Length: 2 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 45 minutes

Elevation gain: 95 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a David Weld Sanctuary Loop Trail map

Getting here from NYC: The David Weld Sanctuary is located in St. James, New York. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from New York City. There’s a small parking lot at the preserve, so it’s recommended to arrive early to get a parking spot.

If opting for the train, you can take the LIRR from Penn Station to St. James, which takes about 1.5 hours. From the train station, it’s about a 10-minute taxi or Uber ride.

About this beach trail:

The David Weld Sanctuary is a nature preserve located on the North Shore of Long Island.

This peaceful preserve includes diverse scenery such as a red maple swamp, red cedars, and a rocky beach.

If you follow the sanctuary’s loop hiking trail, you will be able to admire all of the park’s beauty, as well as climb a 50-foot bluff overlooking the Long Island Sound for truly spectacular views.

Be sure to pack a towel, as the trail leads to a rocky beach where you can enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the water.

18. Robert Moses State Park (Fire Island Lighthouse Trail)

Length: 6.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 3 hours

Elevation gain: 19 feet

Trail type: Out-and-back

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Fire Island Lighthouse Trail map

Getting here from NYC: Fire Island is an island off the coast of Long Island. Cars are not allowed to drive down the stretch of the island, but you can drive across the Fire Island Inlet Bridge to the Fire Island Lighthouse, where parking is available.

Otherwise, you can drive or take the Long Island Railroad to Bayshore, Patchogue, and Sayville, all of which have ferry terminals to Fire Island. It’s about a 2-hour drive from NYC, plus ferry time.

About this fairly flat trail:

This scenic trail is one of the best hidden hiking trails on Long Island.

Well, technically, it’s not “on” Long Island; it’s on Fire Island, which is only connected to Long Island by bridge or ferry. Nonetheless, it’s considered part of Long Island.

On this trail, you’ll be able to enjoy walking along the beach and taking in views of the lighthouse.

If you’d like to climb to the top of the lighthouse, the entrance fee is $10.

19. Avalon Nature Preserve (Avalon/East Farm Preserve Trail)

Length: 3.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Elevation gain: 269 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a map of the Avalon/East Farm Preserve Trail

Getting here from NYC: This trail is located in Stony Brook, New York. It’s a 1.5-hour drive from NYC, or you can take the Long Island Railroad from Penn Station to Stony Brook Station via the Port Jefferson Branch. From Stony Brook Station, it’s a pleasant 25-minute walk through town to the nature preserve or a 5-minute taxi or Uber.

About this Long Island hiking trail:

Avalon Nature Preserve is home to five distinct habitats, including ponds and forests. During the summer, the trail passes through beautiful sunflower fields.

This is an easy hike along a well-maintained trail — or trails, as the path actually combines a few different LI hiking trails within Avalon.

One highlight of the trail is the labyrinth near Mill Pond, the perfect place to do a meditative walk to center yourself.

Along the hike, you’ll also enjoy walking through groves of oak trees and tulips, immersing yourself in lush forest, and viewing large glacial boulders and the sparkling Long Island Sound.

Note that if you want to bring your dog you can, but only on a leash. Moreover, this trail can get crowded due to its local popularity, so arrive early in the morning if you want more solitude – just not on Mondays, as the park is closed.

20. Brookhaven State Park (Brookhaven Trail)

Length: 3.9 miles

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Estimated time: 2 hours

Elevation gain: 104 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Brookhaven Trail map

Getting here from NYC: Brookhaven State Park is in the town of Ridge, NY on Long Island. From NYC, it’s about a 1 hour and 45 minute drive. There are several parking areas for the park.

If taking the train, you can take the LIRR to Mastic Shirley, which takes about 2 hours. From there, it’s about a 15-minute taxi or Uber to Brookhaven State Park.

About this Long Island hiking trail:

Some of the best nature trails on Long Island can be found in Brookhaven State Park.

This 1,638-acre state park boasts numerous trails through its landscape of pine barrens and low-lying wetlands.

If you’re looking for a secluded place to hike, this is a great place to go. It’s one of the best Long Island trails that flies under the radar and is often very calm and quiet. You’ll also see some ponds along the way, too.

Just be aware that hunting is permitted at Brookhaven State Park, so it’s important to stay on-trail and avoid the hunting areas.

21. Wildwood State Park (Loop Trail)

Length: 3.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Elevation gain: 173 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a map of the Wildwood State Park Loop Trail

Getting here from NYC: Wildwood State Park is located in Wading River, NY, which is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from New York City by car. There’s an $8 entrance fee per car.

If arriving by train, take the LIRR from Penn Station to Port Jefferson, which takes about 2 hours. From there, it’s about a 30-minute taxi or Uber to Wildwood State Park.

About this Long Island hiking trail:

For some of the best hiking on Long Island, head to Wildwood State Park. This scenic 767-acre state park contains hundreds of acres of undeveloped hardwood forest and a high bluff overlooking the Long Island Sound.

The Wildwood State Park Loop Trail will take you on an easy circuit around the park. Then make your way over to a 2-mile stretch of beach and admire the water views up close. Be sure to bring a towel for this part of the trek.

This state park is also a popular place for camping if you want to extend your visit into more than a day trip.

Best Places To Hike On Long Island In Nassau County

22. Cedar Creek County Park

Map: Click here for a Google Map of Cedar Creek County Park

Getting here from NYC: Take the Babylon line from Penn Station to Merrick. From there, you will have a 9-minute Uber or taxi ride to get to the park.

About this Long Island hiking trail:

Cedar Creek County Park offers some easy walking on a number of paths that are perfect for those craving a relaxing walk.

While there isn’t a hiking trail per se, there are plenty of scenic paths available for walking and jogging.

This is a great chance to get your family outdoors to experience some nature without having to decide for hours over which trail to do.

Additionally, there are activities like a massive playground and several softball fields and basketball courts.

For children, there is also an archery area and a chance to check out some planes at the aerodrome field.

This is one reason why families tend to flock here for an adventure on Long Island.

23. Tackapausha Preserve (Tackapausha Preserve Trail)

Length: 3.7 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Elevation gain: 36 feet

Trail type: Out-and-back

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Tackapausha Preserve Trail map

Getting here from NYC: Tackapausha Preserve is located in Seaford, New York. It’s about a 1 hour and 10-minute drive from NYC.

This is a trail that’s also accessible by public transportation. You can take the Long Island Railroad from Penn Station on the Babylon Branch to Wantagh Station. From here, it’s a 30-minute walk or a 10-minute taxi or Uber to the entrance of the park and trail.

About this day hike:

Tackapausha Preserve is the oldest preserve in Nassau County. Dating back to 1938, it features 84 acres of giant oaks forests, ponds and streams, wildlife and birds, and 5 miles of marked LI hiking trails.

For one of the best easy day hikes on Long Island, opt for the Tackapausha Preserve Trail. Showcasing a mixture of trails, boardwalks, and bridges, this is a pleasant hike that will take you all through the park.

Although it’s in a busy residential area, you’ll feel isolated from the nearby hustle and bustle on this peaceful trail, which is also great for birdwatching. In fact, over 170 bird species have been identified in the park.

While hiking, keep your eyes peeled for birds like the ruby-throated hummingbird as well as raccoon, muskrat, gray squirrel, and opossum.

Looking to add some education to your hike? Nature lovers can also visit the Tackapausha Museum, which educates visitors on local wildlife and acts as an animal sanctuary.

Pro tip:

If you’re looking to do two of the best places to hike on Long Island in one day, this trail is a quick drive from the previously mentioned Cedar Creek Park!

24. Trail View State Park (Stillwell Woods Loop)

Length: 6.9 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Estimated time: 2.5 hours

Elevation gain: 459 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Stillwell Woods Loop trail map

Getting here from NYC: You can take either the Port Jefferson line or the Ronkonkoma line to Hicksville. After that, you can hop on the N79 bus for 22 minutes and get off at the park, or you can take an Uber or taxi for 13 minutes.

About this Long Island hike:

When visiting Trail View State Park, don’t miss the Stillwell Woods Loop for its extensive trails and moderately difficult hills. 

With over 400 acres of land, this state park borders Cold Spring Harbor State Park and Bethpage State Park, meaning you can easily spend an entire day — or more — exploring New York hiking and nature opportunities in the area.

What is also neat about Trail View State Park is its hiking trails offer variation in intensity more so than some of the more common flat options on Long Island.

Be aware:

Bikers often frequent the Stillwell Woods Loop, too, so be on the lookout for them while you hike.

25. Sands Point Preserve (Sands Point Preserve Loop)

Length: 1.9 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 45 minutes

Elevation gain: 144 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Sands Point Preserve Loop trail map

Getting here from NYC: From Penn Station, take the Port Washington line to the final stop of Port Washington. From there, take an Uber or taxi for about five minutes to reach the trailhead.

About this Long Island hiking spot:

This New York State-owned preserve is one of the best places to hike on Long Island, especially as it has some immaculately tended gardens and buildings cared for by a local nonprofit.

Hiking the Sands Point Preserve Loop offers plenty of wildlife to see like Canada geese, turtles, and songbirds.

Make sure to take the time to follow some of the smaller trails that branch off from the main one.

Additionally, enjoy some small cliffs offering great views for photographers along the trail.

There’s also the chance to enjoy picnic tables and family yoga classes to help you get your zen on in the outdoors.

You do have to pay an admission fee to get in, but it’s worth it for the chance to see Castle Gould, an imposing mansion modeled after Ireland’s Kilkenny Castle that was originally owned by the Guggenheim family.

The price is $10 for a car and $4 per person.

26. Massapequa Preserve (Massapequa Lake Trail)

Length: 6.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 2 hours

Elevation gain: 52 feet

Trail type: Out-and-back

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a Massapequa Lake Trail map

Getting here from NYC: Take the Babylon line from Penn Station to Massapequa. After that, grab an eight-minute Uber or taxi to the trailhead.

About this day hike:

If you’re looking for the best hiking places on Long Island, this large area encompasses over 432 acres and offers a quiet forest where you can feel as though you are in a whole new world.

Choose from 20 miles of hiking trails, like the 6.3-mile Massapequa Lake Trail, which features a beautiful lake hugged by lush greenery. If you want to have some time to yourself, take the path that leads into the woods. This part of the trail is mostly shaded, too.

Along with hiking, this is a popular spot to enjoy biking in New York, showcasing some of the best Long Island nature trails for those looking to get outside but who aren’t interested in an extreme challenge.

Moreover, fishing for largemouth bass and carp, to name a few species, is a popular activity within Massapequa Preserve.

27. Muttontown Preserve (Muttontown Preserve Loop Trail)

Length: 2.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time: 1 hour

Elevation gain: 144 feet

Trail type: Loop

Trailhead: Google Maps location

Map: Click here for a digital map of Muttontown Preserve

Getting here from NYC: Grab a seat on the train to Port Jefferson from Penn Station. You’ll want to get off at the Syosset stop before taking a 10-minute Uber or taxi to the trailhead.

About this loop trail:

The hiking trails in Nassau County offer some unique local history as well as a chance to explore beautiful flora and fauna like frogs, snakes, turtles, songbirds, and more.

Known as the home of the first monarch of Albania when he fled from Europe, he purchased a mansion on Long Island with rubies and diamonds.

The 2.5-mile Muttontown Preserve Loop Trail wanders through his estate and crumbling but elegant buildings.

As the island’s largest nature preserve at 550 acres, you’ll also find a number of kettle ponds, upland forests, and various woodlands here, which creates a bird-watching paradise as many birds come to breed in the diverse habitat.

In fact, the National Audubon Society considers the park an Important Bird Area.

They note that the park has a unique variety of “characteristic species” like the American woodcock, eastern kingbird, gray catbird, chestnut-sided warbler, indigo bunting, and the Baltimore oriole, to name a few.

Moreover, it is one of the very few sites in Nassau County where both great horned owls and eastern screech-owls nest.

Long Island Hiking Map

Hopefully, this guide to the best hikes on Long Island has given you some inspiration to get outside and spend more time in nature.

To help you with your planning, here is also a map showcasing all of the above-mentioned best places to hike on Long Island:

Important Tips For Hiking On Long Island NY

Now that we’ve gone over some of the top hiking and walking trails on Long Island, let’s chat about some important tips to help you stay safe and have fun.

Here are my top tips for hiking in Long Island New York:

Drive to the best hikes on Long Island (vs the train)

Most of the best hiking trails and paths on Long Island are easily accessible by car. If you’re coming from NYC and don’t have a car, you can take the Long Island Railroad, but then you will still need to drive from the train station to reach most trailheads.

It can be expensive to use Uber or Lyft, not to mention ridesharing apps might not have much availability in smaller towns on Long Island.

Because of this, it’s best to rent a car for the day if you’re planning to hike on Long Island instead of relying on public transportation and ridesharing apps. You can use Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

Pack plenty of food & water

If you’re heading out on a day hike on Long Island, be sure to pack enough food and water for your journey.

According to REI, the general rule of thumb when it comes to water is about one half-liter of water per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures — meaning even on a short hike you should be hydrating as well as packing a few snacks like trail mix, fresh fruit, or granola bars.

For a longer hike, you may want to pack sandwiches and additional snacks.

When stopping to eat, be sure to pack up all of your trash and carry it with you until you find a place to dispose of it properly.

Don’t forget hiking essentials

These include things like sunscreen, bug spray, and a first aid kit.

You might think that you don’t need to worry about these things because you’re on Long Island. After all, the island is hardly the wilderness, and you’re never more than a few miles from civilization, right?

While it’s true that Long Island as a whole is a densely populated suburban area, you should still take basic precautions when hiking. This includes packing a first aid kit, even if you’ll just be going for a short hike.

While you won’t need any heavy-duty hiking protection like bear spray for hiking on Long Island, don’t forget other basic hiking essentials like sunscreen and bug spray. Especially during the spring and summer months, these items are a must.

Wear proper footwear for exploring the best places to hike on Long Island

While you don’t necessarily need a pair of hiking boots for most of the trails on Long Island, a durable pair of sneakers is a better choice than, say, flip-flops.

Pay special attention to what type of trail you’ll be hiking, too. Some Long Island trails are sandy, which can make walking more difficult. You’ll want to make sure you have footwear with a strong grip for walking on sandy trails.

Leave nothing but footprints

One of the most important tips to remember when hiking on Long Island is to respect the landscape. Be sure you don’t leave any trash behind, and you may even decide to pick up trash you find along the trail to discard properly later.

Since most hiking spots on Long Island are in suburban areas, there are plenty of signs of human presence all around. Well-trodden trails may get polluted with trash from plastic water bottles to cigarette butts, so do your part not to contribute to this — or to leave the environment even better than you found it.

Recommended Long Island Hiking Gear

Hiking on Long Island?

Check out these affordable hiking backpacks for under $100.

Moreover, I recommend shopping for hiking gear from sustainable outdoor brands like:

Cotopaxi

REI Co-op

Speakeasy Travel Supply Co

NOVICA

Rheos Sunglasses

EarthHero

Life Without Plastic

Where To Stay On Long Island

Looking for Long Island accommodation?

Click here for a list of Long Island hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

What trails would you add to this list of best places to hike on Long Island?

About the guest author, Alex Schnee

Alex is the founder of the blog Alex on the Map, where she covers hiking, outdoor adventure, and national parks. Originally a mountain girl, she’s now a New York dreamer when she’s not traveling. You can follow her on Instagram and Facebook.

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This unique ocean-side hot spring is glorious. Stay at the Furofushi Onsen Hotel, as a day visitor or overnight for a super onsen experience.

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Best Cheapest Breakfasts on the Las Vegas Strip La Salsa Cantina in the Miracle Mile Shops Address: 3663 Las Vegas Blvd S Suite 380, Las Vegas, NV What I Love:  …

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From specially curated experiences to epic outings, here’s what to expect when you cruise to Tahiti with Windstar Cruises.

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The Resort Shirakami train is one of Japan’s Joyful Trains and is a glorious way to travel from Akita to Aomori with spectacular views.

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Adventour Begins
Geirangerfjord Cruise Port Guide | 7 Best Things To Do In Geiranger

Welcome to Geirangerfjord cruise port, a crown jewel of Norwegian fjords nestled in the Sunnmøre region in the western part of Norway. The spectacular Geiranger Fjord has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was named by Lonely Planet as the best travel destination in Scandinavia.

Located in the Stranda Municipality, Geirangerfjord is a branch of the Storfjorden (Great Fjord). Sailing into the fjord is an unforgettable sight that you cannot compare with any other! I visited this stunning place years ago and I still remember how amazing it was when we sailed in.

In this Geirangerfjord travel guide, I give you an overview of Geiranger cruise port along with 7 best things to do on a cruise to this breathtaking cruise destination.

Visit also our cruise port guides to Haugesund, Tromso, Bergen, Stavanger, Olden, Oslo, Alesund

Geirangerfjord Cruise Port

1. Geiranger Cruise Terminal

The port of Geirangerfjord is located in the small village of Geiranger, tucked between towering mountains and breathtaking scenery. A small Geiranger Cruise Terminal can accommodate one cruise ship at a time, however, the majority of large cruise ships tender and transfer cruise passengers to the pier via tender boats.

This cruise terminal is adjacent to Geiranger Ferry Terminal, from where you can embark on fjord cruises that depart approximately every hour. Geiranger Tourist Information is available on-site, providing visitors with useful information on things to do in the area, taxis, e-bike rentals, fjord cruise timetables, etc.

Right next to the pier is a large parking for tour buses ready to take you on shore excursions to stunning viewpoints, waterfalls, and other points of interest.

Geiranger Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus departs every hour from the Geiranger cruise ship terminal to the iconic Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint. The circuit takes about 50 minutes and includes four stops.

Within a short walk from the pier, you’ll also find a restaurant, a cafe, a hotel, a small museum, and a grocery store.

Public buses are available, but this option is not recommended to cruise passengers as they do not run frequently.

Geiranger cruise terminal. Photo course: Canva Pro

2. Hellesylt Cruise Terminal

Cruise ships may also dock in Hellesylt cruise port, another small port located in Geirangerfjord, around 20 km/12 miles west of Geiranger village (the journey between the two cruise ports takes 1 hour 30 minutes because one part of it includes a ferry ride).

Hellesylt features facilities such as a tourist information kiosk, a few souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels/campsites. Public transportation, a church and a hospital are close to the pier.

Cruise ships may dock or tender. It often happens that only cruise passengers who booked shore excursions are allowed to get off the ship, only to join tour buses waiting to transfer them to the nearby attractions.

Other passengers continue to Geiranger port where the ship can stay longer. You will get this information from your cruise line beforehand.

7 Best Things To Do In Geirangerfjord Cruise Port

1. Geirangerfjord Sightseeing Cruise

While the Geirangerfjord is undoubtedly stunning from the land, experiencing it from the water offers a unique perspective that simply can’t be matched! Your cruise ship may be offering one, but there are also local tour operators offering fjord cruises.

These cruises usually depart from Geiranger dock and include a couple of hours sailing along the magnificent fjord, allowing you to admire the attractions and wildlife up close.

You will have the opportunity to admire the spectacular Seven Sisters Waterfall, the 410-meter (1,350 ft)-high waterfall that consists of seven separate streams that look absolutely breathtaking from the water!

Other scenic locations include the Brudesløret (Bridal Veil) and Friaren waterfalls, and Devil’s Crevice, a narrow and dramatic geological formation showcasing the forces of nature with its deep and steep fissure carved into the rugged landscape.

Bridal Veil. Photo source: Canva Pro

From the port, it’s often just a short walk to the designated pier where the sightseeing cruises depart. You can opt for a catamaran sightseeing cruise, a fjord safari on a high-speed RIB vessel, or a relaxing kayaking adventure.

If you prefer to explore independently, it’s possible to rent kayaks from local operators and embark on a self-guided paddling adventure. While this option requires a bit more planning and coordination, it offers the flexibility to customize your itinerary and explore at your own pace.

For those staying here for more days (or if you are staying overnight at port), full-day cruises to the famous Alesund located around 108 km/67 miles to the northwest are also available.

Explore Geiranger fjord cruises

2. The Seven Sisters Waterfall

The Seven Sisters Waterfall is a breathtaking natural spectacle nestled within a short driving distance from the port. The 410-meter (1,350 ft)-high waterfall consists of seven distinct cascades flowing down the steep mountainside, with an average free fall of around 250 meters (820 ft).

Legend has it that the “Seven Sisters” remained unmarried, while the waterfall on the opposite side of the fjord earned the name “The Suitor” due to numerous unsuccessful attempts to court the sisters.

From the port in Geiranger, it’s possible to reach the Seven Sisters Waterfall on a fjord cruise, but also by a combination of driving and hiking. Both cruise lines and independent tour operators offer organized excursions to the viewpoints from where you can admire the Seven Sisters Waterfall.

Explore Seven Sisters Waterfall tours and activities

Seven Sisters Waterfall. Photo source: Canva Pro

3. Eagle’s Bend Viewpoint

Take a spectacular ride up the Eagle Road to see one of Geiranger’s most mesmerizing views – the Eagle’s Bend. This viewpoint, located high above the Geirangerfjord, provides jaw-dropping panoramic views that will take your breath away!

Also known as Ørnesvingen Viewpoint, this scenic overlook is located along Geiranger-Trollstigen National Tourist Route around a 15-minute drive from the port of Geirangerfjord. You can visit it by car or on a guided bus tour.

Check out Eagle’s Bend tours and activities

Eagle’s Bend. Photo source: Canva Pro

4. Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint

Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint is an iconic observation point located only a 10-minute drive from the cruise port, offering unparalleled views of the majestic Geirangerfjord and its surrounding landscape. You can either drive, take a Hop on Hop off bus, or hike up for about an hour to reach the viewpoint.

Perched atop steep cliffs, the viewpoint provides a breathtaking panorama of the deep blue fjord waters, dramatic mountainsides, and cascading waterfalls. This is also the best spot to observe the toy-sized cruise ships. A small parking is available on-site.

Explore Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint tours

I took this picture at Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint many years ago, but still remember the nature spectacle that unfolded before my eyes!

5. Dalsnibba Mountain

Only 20 km/12.5 miles (a 40-minute drive) southeast of Geiranger cruise port is Dalsnibba Mountain, a towering peak that offers panoramic views of the Geirangerfjord and its surrounding landscape.

At an elevation of over 1,476 meters above sea level, Dalsnibba Viewpoint (Dalsnibba Utsiktspunkt) offers visitors a breathtaking vistas of the iconic Geirangerfjord, lush valleys, and snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Dalsnibba Mountain is best visited on a guided shore excursion, but you can also reach it by bus or car via the iconic Eagle Road (Ørnevegen). A cafe and a souvenir shop are available on-site.

Explore Dalsnibba Mountain tours and activities

6. Geiranger Church

Step back in time and discover the historic Geiranger Church, a wooden church rich in history located within a 15-minute walk from the cruise ship terminal. Built in the traditional Norwegian stave church style, the church originally dates from the 15th century and is surrounded by a small cemetery.

As you enter the Geiranger Church, you’ll be impressed by its rustic charm and stunning hilltop location overlooking breathtaking mountains and waterfalls. Keep in mind that the church may be closed sometimes, but both the exterior view of the church and its location make it worth coming!

Geiranger Church. Photo source: Canva Pro

7. Hiking Adventure

If you prefer a more adventurous and adrenaline-pumped holiday, a hiking trip will provide you with an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness that surrounds the fjord.

Many guided hiking tours are available, led by knowledgeable local guides who can provide insight into the area’s flora, wildlife, and cultural history.

These tours typically depart from designated meeting points near the port and transport participants to the starting point of the hike. Alternatively, for those who prefer to explore independently, there are numerous hiking trails accessible from the village of Geiranger.

From gentle paths that meander along the fjord’s edge to challenging climbs that lead to panoramic viewpoints, there’s a trail for every skill level and interest!

Explore Geiranger hiking tours and activities

Visit also our cruise port guides to Reykjavik, Isafjordur, Akureyri, Amsterdam, Zeebrugge, Copenhagen, Invergordon (Inverness), Glasgow (Greenock), Tallinn, Stockholm

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Western Europe, Baltic & Scandinavia, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my privacy policy here.

Geirangerfjord Cruise Port Guide | 7 Best Things To Do In Geiranger
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The glorious natural area of Juniko Lakes is a great place to hike, while using the Resort Shirakami train. Here’s how to get there + hike

The post How to Visit Juniko Lakes – Hike Juniko 12 Lakes & Aoike Pond appeared first on ASocialNomad.

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