Go on an amazing nature adventure with your family on these nearby hiking trails
Receive family activities not to be missed!
Get the best winter family activities
Sent to you weekly!
https://www.tenaflynaturecenter.org/ : A dense and rugged forest, you won’t find smooth and narrow paths here. However, the Lost Brook Preserve is a fun way for families to explore and better understand the natural terrain. This includes boulders covering trails, boulders and walkways over streams. They also host tons of events throughout the year such as a scavenger hunt, sugar bush and more. 313 Hudson Ave, Tenafly, NJ 07670.
ROCKLAND COUNTY
Bear Mountain State Park: A popular attraction, Bear Mountain State Park offers access to 52,000 acres, ranging from light to moderate hiking. This includes beautiful landscapes, woodland settings, and 235 miles of trails plus 18 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Plus, families can enjoy a large lot, shaded picnic areas, access to fishing, a pool, and even a visit to museums and the Trailside Zoo. You can also take advantage of their on-site skating rink (during the winter) or take a ride – or two – around their famous carousel. Palisades Parkway or Route 9W North, Bear Mountain, NY 10911.
Tallman Mountain State Park: Overlooking the Hudson and Piermont marshes, Tallman Mountain State Park offers access to 700 acres and two trails. This includes a wooded hike ranging from 2.5 to 5 miles, depending on which loop you take. The park also offers access to a swimming pool, track, tennis courts, field and picnic areas. Route 9W, Sparkill, NY 1097.
Sterling Forest State Park: Offering access to the forests, Sterling Forest State Park is an explorer’s paradise with over 22 acres of natural refuge and deep forest habitat for many animals such as the black bear, hawks and many birds. The park also offers access to hunting and fishing and a visitor center where you and your family can learn about the local park environment. 116 Old Forge Road Tuxedo Park, NY 10987.
Hook Mountain State Park: Part of the Palisades Interstate Park system, Hook Mountain offers 7.5 miles of trails that parallel the Hudson River. An uphill hike, there are three connecting and circular loops to the Long Path which is known to be a bit challenging. However, there are different lengths, the longest being around 12 miles. Enjoy the view of New York and of course the river. Nyack Beach State Park, 698 North Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960.
Buttermilk Falls County Park: Offering access to 75 acres of land, Buttermilk Falls County Park is a beautiful hike that is part of the Palisades Ridge. Trails lead to the creek and to some amazing lookout points and waterfall views, fantastic for exploring and bird watching. 199 S Greenbush Road, Orangeburg, NY 10962.
Nyack-Haverstraw River Trails: An 8km dirt trail, this gentle hike is a great way to wander over paved terrain. Offering stunning views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, the trail also features benches and picnic tables. You can make a day of it and also explore Nyack Beach State Park at the base of Hook Mountain. 698 North Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960.
Rockland Lake State Park: This park comprises 256 acres, which includes a mix of developed and undeveloped land. Families can enjoy access to a wooded wetland, swimming pool, tennis courts, picnic areas, golf courses, and trails. The park also includes an environmental education center that operates during the summer. 299 Rockland Lake Rd., Valley Cottage, NY 10989.
Main image: omgimages/Getty Images