The Easy Hikes
Easy Hiking Trails
This hand-curated selection of non-strenuous hikes is for lovers of the outdoors, forest, fauna, and fun.
Not everyone wants to — or can — hike up a mountain. These trails will get you into the hills for a great time without unduly taxing your body.
But these are wilderness hikes — so make sure to pack your ten essentials.
Note 1: Be aware that “easy mountain hikes” does not mean “easy hikes” — before you go, learn how to stay safe on a mountain.
Note 2: Easy Catskill hikes are easier than easy Adirondack hikes. An easy Adirondack hike is equivalent to a moderate Catskill hike.
Falling Waters Preserve
Head to Falling Waters Preserve for a delightful stroll that’s all about the simple joys of being outside.
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.
Poets’ Walk Park on the Hudson River
An inspiring trail that leads to a large pavilion with impressive views.
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.
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.
Israel Wittman Sanctuary Trails Guide (Updated)
Newly expanded with the addition of Loop C, this sanctuary secures its place as a forever favorite.
6 Easy Catskills Hikes
Want a deep Catskills experience without the angst of a rigorous mountain hike? These are the hikes for you.
Saugerties Lighthouse Trail
The super sweet and very short Saugerties Lighthouse trail is a huge hit with all ages.
Secret Hike: Mega Mounds & Shadow Pool
This short, strange hike leads through one of the largest quarries in The Catskills.
Balsam Lake Fire Tower (updated)
Incredible 360° wilderness views make this hike spectacular at any time of year.
Diamond Notch Falls via Spruceton
A short, easy mountain hike to a true Catskills gem: Diamond Notch Falls.
Best Hikes of 2022
These are the best hikes I did in 2022 — 17 amazing day-hikes sorted by level of difficulty.
High Falls Conservation Area
Short, easy hiking trails wind through High Falls Conservation Area to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in New York.
