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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Wittenberg & Cornell from Woodland Valley
An extremely rewarding hike that includes the infamous Cornell Crack and breathtaking views from both mountains.
Overlook Mountain Fire Tower 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.
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.
Hadley Mountain Fire Tower
Delightful trails and gorgeous views. Hadley Mountain Fire Tower has a lot you’ll love.
Indian Head Catskills Hike
Indian Head is my absolute favorite single-mountain hike in the Catskills.
Kaaterskill Falls Hike (Ultimate Guide)
Everything you need to know about the iconic Kaaterskill Falls: parking, viewing tips, alternate routes, safety.
Dover Stone Church
Dover Stone Church is a short, easy, highly-memorable hike — and an absolute delight.
Muir Woods National Monument
Step into a realm where the tallest trees on Earth reach for the sky.
Giant Ledge Hike in the Catskills (Ultimate Guide)
Everything you need to know about one of the Hudson Valley’s best hikes.
Israel Wittman Sanctuary Hiking Trails
Newly expanded with the addition of Loop C, this sanctuary secures its place as a forever favorite.
