The state of New York has much more to offer beyond its world-class megacity. As you venture further north into the state, you’ll be treated to some of the country’s most breathtaking natural scenery. From the iconic cascades of Niagara Falls to the magnificent gorges of Watkins Glen State Park, hikers have a bevy of choices for seeing these natural wonders up close.
Here are some of the most gorgeous hiking destinations in upstate New York.
1. Cobble Lookout, The Adirondack Mountains
Located in Wilmington near Lake Placid, Cobble Lookout is one of Upstate New York’s easiest hikes. This simple 2.4-mile out-and-back route ends with a spectacular view of the peaks of the Adirondack Mountains. The mostly flat path runs through densely wooded areas on the way to a broad cliff towering over the mountains. You can see for miles when resting at the peak.
Visiting during any time of day is well worth it, but the views are particularly stunning at sunset. While the wooded nature of the trail provides much-needed shade when hiking on a hot day, the lack of sunlight means that the trails take longer to dry out after heavy rain. It’s best to avoid the trails if they are in this muddy state.
2. Taughannock Falls, Ithaca
Another relatively easy hike, Ithaca’s 2-mile out-and-back hike at Taughannock Falls showcases some of New York’s highest waterfalls. The 215-foot falls here are even taller than Niagara Falls. This stunning lunge waterfall flows amidst towering 400-foot cliffs on either side, making for one of the state’s most majestic landscapes.
It’s best to go early in the morning to beat the crowds, since the ease of this hike and the beauty of the scenery make it one of the most popular hikes in Upstate New York. The mostly flat Gorge Trail also leads to an overlook with an overhead view of the falls.
There are also two other trails: the South Rim and North Rim. The North Rim is particularly beautiful as it leads to the Upper Falls, aka the Hidden Falls. The waterfalls are usually pretty dry in the summer, so it’s best to visit in the spring or after heavy rain in the fall.
3. Gorge Trail, Watkins Glen State Park
Located in the Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen State Park is one of the great natural wonders of Upstate New York. It also offers some of the best hiking in the region. The spectacular Gorge Trail is short at just a 1.5-mile loop, but it passes through a whopping 19 waterfalls by the end of the hike.
The winding trail crosses through a verdant gorge, complete with manmade stone bridges and staircases that cross behind waterfalls. It is a relatively easy hike, but it does include up to 800 steps. The trail culminates at the spellbinding Rainbow Falls, the main feature of Watkins Glen State Park.
4. Kaaterskill Falls, The Catskill Mountains
Measuring 180 feet, Kaaterskill Falls is New York’s highest cascading waterfall and features 350 feet between its two drops. The relatively easy 1.6-mile out-and-back hike to the waterfall takes about two hours. As it is one of the most-visited waterfalls in New York, it’s best to get there early if you are aiming to enjoy solitude on the hike.
While the trail is appropriate even for most beginner hikers, it can get slippery and muddy. These hazardous conditions are especially likely closer to the falls. Plan appropriately by wearing appropriate clothing and footwear to make you more comfortable if you happen to encounter any mud.
5. Anthony’s Nose – Hudson Valley
Located in the Hudson Valley, Anthony’s Nose is a great option for a hiking day trip from New York City. This moderately challenging 2.6-mile out-and-back hike runs through the Appalachian Trail and features panoramic views of the Hudson River from the Mountain Bridge Overlook.
There are two ways to hike to the overlook. Along with views of the Hudson, hikers can take in the impressive Bear Mountain Bridge and Bear Mountain on the opposite side. Like most of the best hikes in New York, Anthony’s Nose has become very popular, especially due to its proximity to New York City.
5. Rim and Gorge Trails, Robert H. Treman State Park
Boasting an impressive 12 waterfalls, Robert H. Treman State Park features two of New York’s best hiking trails: the Rim Trail and Gorge Trail. The top gem of the park is the Enfield Glen gorge, and both trails run through it, as do several waterfalls. While all the falls are beautiful, the 115-foot Lucifer Falls is the highlight.
These well-maintained trails both offer several impressive viewpoints of the gorge and the waterfalls. While the hike is relatively easy, it does also have several stairs. The hikes are 4.3-miles combined, so it will be a long day for your feet and thighs if you do both. However, the views are well worth it.
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