Nature Trails
Being in nature is so beneficial — but not everyone can (or wants to) hike a whole mountain.
Nature trails are a wonderful way to get a solid forest fix without adding the stresses and risks that come with tougher, mountainous hiking trails.
Each of these nature trails is under 4 miles in length, and all are suitable for just about anyone.
What is a Nature Trail?
A nature trail is any path through a forest, field, or preserve — especially one that provides opportunities for observing and learning about plants and animals.
Time spent in nature…
- Improves health and fitness
- Improves immunity and memory performance
- Reduces anxiety and depression
- Speeds recovery from illness (gets the blood moving)
- Gets you away from your living space (and all its attendant distractions, chores, and responsibilities)
- Lowers your cortisol, pulse rate, and blood pressure
- Increases your white blood cell count
- Increases your Vitamin D production
- Makes you happy!
These easy nature trail routes over predominantly level terrain provide deep nature experiences.
The hikes to Red Hill do include some elevation gain but, if you take your time, it’s do-able stuff. There are no especially difficult or technical sections to worry about — and the view from the fire tower is well worth the effort.
Secret Hike: Mega Mounds & Shadow Pool
This short, strange hike leads through one of the largest quarries in The Catskills.
Diamond Notch Falls via Spruceton
A short, easy mountain hike to a true Catskills gem: Diamond Notch Falls.
Lion’s Head
The Lion’s Head Trail in Salisbury, CT, is a delightful short hike with great views that you can actually fit into your day.
Dibbles Quarry & Beyond (Ultimate Guide)
A short, easy hike to the very memorable Dibbles Quarry in one of The Catskills’ loveliest notches.
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.
Vernooy Falls Trail: Waterfalls & Mill Ruins
The delightful Vernooy Falls hiking trail leads to one of the funnest spots in The Catskills.
Bash Bish Falls
An easy walk leads to a spectacular payoff: Bash Bish Falls — Massachusetts’ highest waterfall.
Awosting Falls
Awosting Falls at Minnewaska State Park Preserve is one of the most popular destinations in the Hudson Valley.
Ashokan Rail Trail
Take a leisurely nature stroll (or cycle) along the scenic Ashokan Rail Trail, a premier Catskills destination.
Roaring Brook Falls
A very short and very fun hike to one of the most popular Adirondack waterfall destinations.
6 Easy Catskills Hikes
Want a deep Catskills experience without the angst of a rigorous mountain hike? These are the hikes for you.
Shaupeneak Ridge
Shaupeneak Ridge 936.5 acre park contains almost 10 miles of easy trails, suitable for easy hiking, kayaking, fishing, trail running, picnicking, and excellent mountain-biking.
Kaaterskill Rail Trail
This is a short, super-easy hike to one of the most popular Catskills destinations. It includes views not seen by those who park closer to the falls. It’s the perfect trail in winter for some easy snow-shoeing or cross country skiing.
Red Hill Fire Tower Classic Trail
This short, easy hike up beautifully-maintained trail in bucolic New York leads to dramatic views of the Southern and Western Catskills.
Steep Catskills Hike to Two Lookouts
A short, steep Nature Walk through peaceful woods to two views of the Ashokan Reservoir and surrounding Catskills peaks.
