Fall is a prime time to go hiking in New York State. The crisp autumn skies make this the perfect season to be outdoors and surrounded by nature. The clear views of the majestic mountains and ever-changing fall foliage makes hiking your favorite trails more memorable than ever. This season, challenge yourself to make it to the highest peak.
Here are the best hiking destinations in New York State:
· Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park, “Grand Canyon of the East,” is a natural wonderland featuring 14,350 acres and 66 miles of gorgeous hiking trails with horseback riding and biking. With the gorge, waterfalls and 66 miles of trails, it’s a superb hiking destination and one of the most scenically magnificent areas in the eastern U.S. The Genesee River roars through the gorge over three major waterfalls between cliffs.
https://parks.ny.gov/parks/79/details.aspx
· Salmon River Falls
New York State’s legendary Salmon River is known worldwide for its tremendous fishery. Thousands of trophy salmon, steelhead, trout and bass run the river’s pristine waters through the course of the year. However, hidden 19 miles upstream is Salmon River Falls – a 110-foot waterfall overlooking a long, steep gorge. A wheelchair-accessible trail leads along the northern edge of the gorge. Another more challenging trail takes hikers 600 feet to the bottom of the gorge where they can experience the mists of the falls at the edge of a deep pool.
http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/63578.html
· Bear Swamp State Park
Bear Swamp State Park has the highest point in Cayuga County. The land is a mix of hills and wetlands with a set of trails that offer up something for everyone. Bear Swamp has approximately 3,539 acres and a 14.3-mile multiple use trail system, which is fantastic for mountain biking or just an afternoon fall hike. Originally, part of the various land tracts that were dispersed after the Revolutionary War.
https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/34420.html
· Appalachian Trail
The ever-popular Appalachian Trail cuts through southeastern Dutchess County for 30 miles. These 4,000 acres of protected parkland are perfect for hiking. The trail can be found at various locations: State Rt. 52, 4 mi. east of Taconic Parkway, parking on north side of road; State Rt. 55, west of Pawling, 1.5 mi east of State Rt. 216 intersection, parking 0.1 mi. west of trail crossing. www.appalachiantrail.org/newyork
· Ashokan Rail Trail
Opening fall 2019, the Ashokan Rail Trail is a naturally-surfaced multi-use recreational trail running 11.5 miles along the northern shore of the Ashokan Reservoir. Activities include hiking, bicycling, running, cross-country skiing, and dog walking all while experiencing breathtaking views of the Catskills.
https://ulstercountyny.gov/planning/ashokan-rail-trail
· Mohonk Mountain House
There are 85 miles of winding trails, including carriage roads and rock scrambles. See the outside of the Victorian castle resort with the backdrop of the mountains.
Guess what – that’s not all! We have hundreds of other amazing trails and we’re happy to share more. Please let us know if you’d like any additional information, imagery or to get outdoors yourself on a trip Upstate.
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