The Best Hikes
The Best Hikes in the Catskills, Hudson Highlands, Adirondacks, and beyond
This hand-curated selection of the most rewarding hikes you can do for scenery: the best trails, the best bushwhacks, the best views, and the most fun.
Below, you’ll find a mix of hiking trails and routes that cross a variety of terrain. Most of the hikes are fully trailed, a few are bushwhacks. Some you can tackle solo.
Others should definitely be undertaken with a partner or as part of a group hike.
Wherever you plan to hike, this list guarantees an awesome time, every time.
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Blackhead via Arizona from Storks Nest
A delightful, scenic route over an unsung gem to a classic Catskills peak.


Van Benschoten Trail
Mysterious, historic and beautiful—this hike is also incredibly steep.


12 Best Fall Foliage Hikes in the Catskills
When the fall foliage hits, the Catskills offer a true golden spectacle. Here are a the most popular Catskills hikes to view the autumn extravaganza.

Pine Swamp Mine in Harriman State Park
This hike to and beyond Pine Swamp Mine is a wonderful butterfly-shaped figure-of-eight loop through Harriman State Park.

Sam’s Point, Ice Caves, Verkeerderkill Falls
This is a truly unforgettable Shawangunks adventure.

The 7 Best Hikes Near Woodstock NY
The very best hikes near Woodstock, New York. And they’re all family-friendly!

Monument Mountain & Devil’s Pulpit
Monument Mountain is one of the Berkshires’ most beloved landmarks.

Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2024
Everything you need to complete the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge.


Wittenberg & Cornell from Woodland Valley
An extremely rewarding hike that includes the infamous Cornell Crack and breathtaking views from both mountains.

Overlook Mountain Trail
You can hike up Overlook Mountain’s easy trail in about an hour. The fire tower at the end of this short trail is positioned to give one of the most dramatic views in the Catskills.

Mount Chocorua via Piper Trail
A stunning hike up Mount Chocorua via the Piper Trail, one of the most celebrated paths in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.Â

Steep Ravine, Dipsea Trail & Matt Davis Loop
The storied Steep Ravine/Dipsea/Matt Davis loop has it all: Redwoods, gorges, chaparral, even the Pacific Ocean.

Cascade & Porter Hike
This entry-level Adirondack High Peak hike is a great introduction to the rigors of mountain hiking: rough trails, rocky scrambles and incredible views make this short day-hike super rewarding.