Kid-Friendly Hikes
Kid-Friendly Hikes in The Catskills & Beyond
This list of kid-friendly hiking trails in the Catskills and beyond focuses on easier, shorter, flatter routes.
Nonetheless, each provides a ton of interest.
There are excellent scenic views, interesting terrain, dramatic geology, and even some ruins to explore.
Hiking With Children: Safety Issues
Many young people can enjoy even fairly strenuous mountain hikes safely. You know best what your kids can handle.
These trailed routes cross relatively even terrain: no big ascents, no rock scrambles.
However, these are all still wilderness hikes — so make sure you’re prepared to hike in the wilderness.
At the very least, always carry the ten essentials.
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The Kid-Friendly Hikes…
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.
Kaaterskill Falls Hike (Ultimate Guide)
Everything you need to know about hiking Kaaterskill Falls, the iconic Catskills location.
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 (Ultimate Guide)
Everything you need to know about one of the Hudson Valley’s best hikes.
Israel Wittman Sanctuary Trails Guide (Updated)
Newly expanded with the addition of Loop C, this sanctuary secures its place as a forever favorite.
Vroman’s Nose Trail
This short moderate loop over Vroman’s Nose climaxes at a stunning series of outrageously scenic ledges.
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.
What is Soft Hiking?
A refreshing perspective on outdoor experiences, emphasizing mindfulness, accessibility, and personal enjoyment.
