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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High Falls Conservation Area
Short, easy hiking trails wind through High Falls Conservation Area to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in New York.
Inspiration Point (Catskills)
Inspiration Point in Kaaterskill Clove is one of the top scenic destinations in The Catskills.
Anthony’s Nose from Camp Smith II
This route to the wonderful scenic lookout on Anthony’s Nose is gentler than the classic route from the north.
Acra Point & Batavia Kill Loop with Burnt Knob Lookout
Acra Point & Burnt Knob is one of the most beautiful hikes in The Catskills. Gorgeous trails for miles, plus two amazing lookouts.
Baxter Mountain Trail
Baxter Mountain Trail in the Adirondacks is on of the sweetest trails in Keene Valley. Baxter is also one of the most hike-able and scenic peaks in the area.
Rooster Comb
The trail to Rooster Comb in the Adirondacks is relentlessly uphill but also quite short. Enjoy 3 fantastic lookouts, each more stunning that the last.
Giant Mountain
Giant Mountain is one of the most popular peaks in the Adirondacks. This route offers a super fun climb and a super scenic descent.
6 Incredible Fall Foliage Hikes in the Adirondacks
When that Adirondack fall foliage hits, you don’t want to miss it. Here’s a selection of incredible hikes to view the ADK extravaganza.
5 Best Hiking Trails Near Woodstock
Here are the best hiking trails near Woodstock, New York. All kid-friendly so the whole family can enjoy a deep nature excursion.
18 Amazing Western Catskills Hikes
Some of the best day hikes are only a few hours from New York City. The Western Catskills have it all!
Nun-Da-Ga-O Ridge Loop
The Nun-Da-Ga-O ridge is as magical as it is tough. Do not let these easy-sounding mileage and elevation stats trick you!
Red Hill Fire Tower from Denning
This new route to Red Hill Fire Tower is a little longer and tougher than the classic route, but so much sweeter.
The Sketchiest Hike in the Catskills
This is the sketchiest hike I’ve done in The Catskills — and the most fun
7 Amazing Scenic Catskills Views You Don’t Know
The best scenic Catskills views? Often, they’re not the ones you'll find in any guidebook.
Secret Hike: Winter Views, Giant Quarry, Waterfalls, Ruins
I had no idea what I’d find on this unsung trail. I was blown away.
