Looking for a KILLER hike but you reside in NYC and don’t actually wanna schlep all the way as much as the Adirondacks? If so then this EPIC record of the most effective hiking trails on Long Island is totally for you.
Because this little guide right here? Well, it’s jam-packed with tons of expert suggestions and methods that will lead you to all of the best hikes on Long Island, regardless of whether or not you’re a complete hiking novice or an absolute boss hiker who has been doing this for years.
You know, somebody who can rapidly and easily construct an entire shopping mall out of a single toothpick while stranded in the forest.
But, alas, I digress. So, back to hiking Long Island and all of the stellar Long Island trails that await you as you uncover a number of the best things to do in Long Island.
I imply, not solely do I LOVE the good outside, but I’ve been an NYC local my entire life (aka 30+ years). Therefore, I would typically hit up Jones Beach, Robert Moses Beach, Montauk, and past whereas looking for out some of the greatest hikes in New York.
Therefore, I am the beyond good person to provide the inside scoop on all of the greatest hiking trails on Long Island.
So, seize a handful of some scrumptious trail combine and have your hiking boots on the ready since we’re about to sawn dive into 20 of one of the best hikes on Long Island…EVER!
Dear fantastic, lovely, and oh-so-amazing reader (Yup, I lay it on thick for my dozens of fans). Since I am incapable of constructing it rain money, there’s a excessive chance (like 99.999%) that this post may include affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for extra info. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small fee from qualifying purchases.
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Easy Hiking Trails on Long Island
1. Connetquot River State Park Preserve
Let’s begin big! Nestled between Islandia and Oakdale, the Connetquot River State Park Preserve is the largest state park on Long Island.
In truth, It has over a thousand more acres than its next largest rival – something that type of makes me drained simply thinking about it!
But, that additionally means there’s soooo far more for you to get pleasure from. In truth, there are actually a number of color-coded trails to explore, ranging from Yellow (the shortest) to Blue (the longest – duh!).
On high of that, there are many unmarked trail paths that crisscross by way of the park, so you could make up your personal trail if you like!
The Blue Trail is round 8 miles lengthy and takes you on a huge loop around the park. What makes it probably the greatest hiking trails on Long Island is that the trail is pretty flat, so it’s accessible to hikers of any skill level.
That’s why, no matter who you might be, you’ll feel like a total boss as you blast via this magical park.
Pro Tip: if you’re in search of a snack on the way, make sure to take the White Trail – if it’s the right time of year since the blueberry bushes might be stuffed with juicy blueberries. Now that’s what I call getting back to nature!
Length: 8 miles for the longest trail
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Elevation Gain: 36 feet
2. Sands Point Preserve Loop Trail
What’s something you don’t typically see in America? Yup, a castle.
But that’s just what you’ll get when you drive up to Sands Point Preserve since it’s house to Castle Gould, a a hundred,000-square-foot constructing, full with its very own clock tower.
Apparently it was constructed method again in 1904 by Howard Gould for his wife, actress, Katherine Clemmons.
Geez, now that’s what I call devotion, I can barely get someone to purchase me a sandwich, let alone build me a full-on citadel.
Anyway, the one problem with this beautiful building? Well, as soon as it was constructed, she didn’t really feel like it actually suited her.
So, they only constructed a new manor to stay in as an alternative that was pretty much right next door. Talk concerning the glamorous lives of the wealthy and famous, am I right?
Anyway, there’s plenty of actions out there to hikers exploring the Long Island strolling trails right here.
Because along with the castle and manor, there’s a playground, a dog park, a Dino Trail, plenty of seashore space and tons of woodland areas.
And the Sands Point Preserve Loop Trail will introduce you to all of those activities and more – making it easily probably the greatest hiking trails on Long Island for households, especially if you’ve got younger kids.
Pro Tip: If you head out in the direction of Trail 5 (north of the Pond space marked on the map boards), you will get an excellent view across the water of the Long Island Sound.
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 132 ft
3. Muttontown Preserve
If you’re after a more random, select your own adventure-style hike, then Muttontown Preserve is the park for you.
There are trails and paths all over the place, so you can choose and select your route, and customize it nevertheless you want. So, each time you go, you can enjoy a model new experience!
Plus, Muttontown Preserve has a lot – a LOT – of lovely woodland, with plenty of wildflowers to see. That’s why it’s a favourite spot amongst horseback riders who wish to journey through the realm.
Persimmon trees also thrive right here. According to Korean folklore, dried persimmons can scare away tigers, which may be why you won’t see any tigers on your hike! Yep, that’s definitely the reason (insert winkie emoji here)!
Now, towards the southern part of the Preserve, you’ll additionally come throughout the historic ruins of a mansion. See, back in 1951, this 60 room property was purchased by King Zog I of Albania … but he by no means moved in.
Yeah, in fact, he by no means even came to America, and the mansion was demolished in 1959. But there are nonetheless loads of stone stairs, pillars, and remnants from the garden fountain to discover right here.
Pro Tip: Head to the Muttontown Lane entrance and decide up a map, then begin your hike from the Nature Center at the north end and luxuriate in one of the best hiking trails on Long Island.
Length: 2.5 miles for the principle loop, extra when you discover more of a few of the greatest hikes on Long Island.
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Elevation Gain: 132 ft
4. Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve Trail Loop
Located virtually smack dab within the center of Long Island is the Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Reserve – a place with an added layer of awesomeness that is perfect for anyone who wants to escape the chaos of NYC (i.e. it’s good for cyclists)!
So, If you prefer to hike while on a motorbike (I’m completely a poet) then this place should be in your radar. Because there are multiple trails right here for cyclists, of all skill ranges, who wish to pedal via this oasis of woodland magnificence.
Although, the easiest trail of all of them might be the 5.5-mile loop around the protect. But there are several more advanced loops inside this one, so you’ll have the ability to tailor your route based in your private preferences.
And for those of you on the market with little furry pals, this protect can be one of the best hiking trails on Long Island for canines. But, do remember that they must be kept on a leash always.
Pro Tip: If you’re taking up these Long Island trails by foot, all the time be on the lookout for cyclists. Many of the inner loops can be utilized by both hikers and bikers (again with the rhymes!), and whereas the primary point of those areas is to appreciate your pure environment, some cyclists can hit the paths pretty hard and quick. So, at all times stay vigilant since we at Girl with the Passport are all about safety first!
Length: 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 21 toes
5. Massapequa Lake Trail
Massapequa Preserve stretches all the finest way from Farmingdale to Biltmore Shores. So there’s an enormous quantity of Long Island trails simply ready to be explored!
Officially named the Peter J. Schmitt Massapequa Preserve, this park contains not one but six large bodies of water, all flowing along Massapequa Creek and ending in (you guessed it) Massapequa Lake at its most southern point.
This means that there are a ton of geese, swans, and other birds for any keen birdwatchers to enjoy.
Now, t aptly named Massapequa Lake Trail actually connects all of those lakes together, running down the length of the preserve with just over 6 miles of paths in whole.
And with all these timber and pure areas, you could stroll for a hella very lengthy time and completely lose yourself here- forgetting you’re in a metropolis at all!
Plus, If you wish to take a break and actually brought your fishing gear, then you’ll love that there are additionally a huge number of fish to be caught right here, together with rainbow trout, largemouth bass, American eel, bluegill, and more. Just remember that there’s a five-fish-catching restrict per day, so don’t go and overdo it!
Also, when you attain Massapequa Lake, when you carry on going south, you probably can even head all the way to the seashore and finish your hike alongside the shores of Massapequa Cove or South Oyster Bay.
Pro Tip: Some water resistant footwear is recommended. Some of the paths here cna become waterlogged and can be fairly muddy, so ensure to deliver some sturdy shoes when exploring one of the best hiking trails on Long Island.
Length: 6 miles
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Elevation Gain: forty eight feet
6. Sunken Meadow State Park
The Sunken Meadow State park trail is a really picturesque one to embark on. For starters,the view ranges from sandy beaches to meadows and even await it… cardiac hills. Yup! Those hills seem designed to get the heart thumping and lungs gasping!
The real beauty of this trail is that it can be added to and subtracted from at will. As you gaze into the space you presumably can all however see the path you need to take. The meadows simply merge into the hills and earlier than you understand it, you could be heading up and admiring the view!
Pro tip: Parking charges are seasonal however the distinction isn’t a lot. So it shouldn’t matter. Try and park in area 3. That way you don’t should traverse an excessive quantity of land before discovering your automotive. The entrance to the trails is close to it.
Length: 3.7 mile loop trail
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation achieve: 20 feet
7. Montauk Point State Park (Money Pond Trail)
Montauk Point is the most easterly part of Long Island. If you go any further, you’d better start swimming, as a result of you’ll be within the Atlantic Ocean!
In truth, this is the place the Long Island Sound and the Atlantic meet – which is why standing right here on the coast and looking at the Atlantic is a very breathtaking, tremendous rewarding sight.
Why? Umm…because you’ll have just hiked along the Money Pond Trail. So you’ll deserve a treat! Not that this particular nature walk is taxing (it’s simply over a mile long). But it’s probably the greatest hiking trails on Long Island, so you can’t miss it.
I imply, leafy woodlands, small creeks to hop across … what’s to not love?
Believe it or not, the Money Pond Trail apparently gets its name from a rumor about there being buried treasure within the space (anyone else bringing a shovel with them? Just me?).
It additionally types part of a loop with two different trails within the park – the Seal Haul Out (where the Money Pond Trail begins – we’ll talk extra about that one in slightly while) and the Oyster Pond Trail.
Altogether it’s just below three miles in total, so informal and severe hikers can each enjoy it.
Pro Tip: Make certain you head right down to the Montauk Lighthouse. This national monument was commissioned by George Washington (yes, THAT George Washington!) and has stood for over 200 years.
Length: 2.eight miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: a hundred thirty toes down to the seashore
eight. Montauk Point State Park (Seal Haul Out Hiking Trail)
There’s a reason why Montauk Point State Park will get two trails on this list. The clue as to why this is probably one of the finest hiking trails on Long Island is within the name. Seals!
From November via to March, this place turns into the last word vacation destination for dozens of those adorable sea creatures.
Because like many people people, they take pleasure in rocking up to the beach and hopping onto the rocks that lie simply off the coast, so they can catch some solar. Fortunately, the Seal Haul Out Trail leads you right up to the place the place this happens and one of the best household beaches on the east coast.
The trail itself begins near the Montauk Highway and goes roughly north for 1.5 miles by way of paths that are generally somewhat tough to observe until you attain the coast.
Then it’s seal time, baby!
Pro Tip: While they could appear huggable, the seals are nonetheless wild animals and feel very threatened when approached by people. It’s great to enjoy them, however please do so from a distance – there’s actually a fence that protects them from enthusiastic onlookers. After all, nobody desires to be chased down the seaside by an indignant seal!
Length: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 51 ft
9. Caleb Smith Park Loop
Formerly a personal house and grounds built in the 18th century, Caleb Smith State Park Preserve (named after the original owner) has been a national park since 1963.
Two branches of the Nissequogue River run through here, which has tremendously enriched the wildlife (be prepared to come across some deer), and the scenery (omg the lakes yo!).
As you would possibly count on, there are a lot of color-coded trails to comply with. But if you’re going for the complete Loop Trail you’ll do sections of pretty much all of them.
Now, the Loop Trail starts simply off the Jericho Turnpike near Willow Pond – it’s round 3 miles in total (more if you wish to wander) and is nice for all ability levels.
Plus, if you’re bringing the household to do top-of-the-line hiking trails on long island, and you want to break up your hike slightly, ensure to take a look at the Nature Museum.
It has some fun interactive reveals which will entertain and educate both youngsters and adults alike!
Pro Tip: The park closes early compared to different parks, round 4:00 pm most days, although typically it could be open longer. In order to benefit from your trip although, e sure to arrive early to find a way to enjoy this stunning place so lengthy as humanly potential.
Length: three miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 201 ft
10. Blydenburgh County Stump Pond Loop
I absolutely love the Blydenburgh County Stump pond loop. This is a quite long trail to embark on so know that it’s going to take you time to cowl all 5.7 miles. The bonus is that it loops round so you always have a unique view as you head ahead. On the other hand, there aren’t any shortcuts. You either head on and complete the loop otherwise you head again the way in which you came.
Aside from the trails and superb views of the pond, there are quite a few actions to get pleasure from within the space. Kayaking is a private favourite however I know a nice deal of individuals who get pleasure from fishing, tenting and horse riding in the space too!
Pro tip: You can also search for the guided excursions. It is a nice way to be taught concerning the flora, fauna and the historical past of the realm. Plus, it helps you meet with other hiking fanatics.
Length: 5.7 mile loop trail
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Pretty degree. No actual elevation acquire.
eleven. Hubbard County Park
Anyone who loves marshy wetland areas will perceive why this 1,815-acre park is home to one of the best hiking trails on Long Island.
Nature lovers will also adore this hiking trail as quite a bit of wildlife may be discovered along the way.
I mean, I know I’ve definitely noticed deer, multiple birds, and even a turtle during my hikes via Hubbard County Park! And I’ve heard from friends of even more exotic sightings.
And, my favourite bit is the creepy “ghost forest” that could be discovered inside the park. This so-called forest is actually a bunch of stumps that had been as quickly as cedar bushes which have long since been swallowed up by a swamp due to current adjustments in sea stage.
But, if hiking isn’t the one thing on your mind, you’ll want to make a day of it exploring this lovely park. There are loads of activities to maintain you busy.
For example, visitors can simply lease a canoe or kayak to use in nearby Hubbard Creek. As a total beginner, I beloved kayaking by way of the creek. The waters are calm, but the pretty environment forestall it from being dull.
Fishing and looking are additionally allowed in the park, but I have no personal experience there.
Also, please be respectful. The land once belonged to the Native American Shinnecock Nation, and its history may be traced back practically 10,000 years!
Pro Tip: Due to the terrain, the most effective time to go to is from mid-April to October. Winter visits are actually potential, but it might be a bit dreary, and very wet, and never the optimal time to discover probably the greatest hiking trails on Long Island.
Length: 2.6 miles (this hike should take you about 1 to 2 hours to complete)
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Almost no elevation achieve.
12. Tackapausha Preserve Trail
Located inside of the Cedar Creek County Park, Tackapausha Preserve Trail is one of my faves. And I suppose when you go to, you’ll agree it’s one of the best hiking trails on Long Island.
Why? Because it has a little bit of everything: marshlands, geese, wooded forest areas, and even graffiti!
So, possibly I’m just easily impressed, but I love strolling throughout the picket walkways and pretending I’m an explorer. Just me?
Plus, historical past buffs will totally want to try this trail since it was actually the very first tract of preserve land acquired by Nassau County in 1938.
And, added bonus? The preserve really houses a fairly sizeable museum the place you’ll find a way to study all concerning the history of the land, the method it was acquired and the life history of all of the wildlife that at present lives throughout the park.
However, should you really feel this hiking trail isn’t difficult enough, I advocate trying out the 9.2 mile Jones Beach Bikeway. It’s one other trail inside the park, and is a well-liked walking, working, and biking trail.
Pro Tip: The lack of elevation and diversified terrain makes this a type of Long Island trails that’s perfect for the entire household. I’ve seen households with three or four generations hiking this trail together with no trouble. It’s additionally a nice way to walk off these extra vacation pounds while having fun with nature but without over-exerting yourself.
Length: three.7 miles round trip (this hike will take about 2 to four hours relying on your pace – and how long you spend admiring the geese)
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Pretty stage. No real elevation achieve.
13. Robert Moses State Park (Beach Trail)
To reach this sandy gem, you’ll have to move out to Fire Island by crossing over the causeway from Conklin Point. But once you get right here, you’ll have miles of seashore to explore!
The Beach Trail itself is around 9.5 miles lengthy and follows the coast along the western end of the island. As with many beaches, it’s principally flat and won’t be too difficult for many hikers.
There are also boardwalk areas for you to access when you don’t wish to walk via a ton of sentimental sand.
When you get to probably the most western level of the hike, you’ll have the flexibility to see across to Cedar Beach on Jones Beach Island. And if you’re there on the end of the day, you’ll be handled to a magical sunset!
Like Montauk Point, this park additionally has a picturesque lighthouse, which has stood for over 150 years. It could be reached by heading east from the place to begin of the Beach Trail. Honestly, it’s pretty exhausting to miss it – it’s very tall, and the island isn’t that wide!
Pro Tip: The Beach Trail is likely one of the finest hiking trails on Long Island that’s finest hiked within the off-season. Because, not surprisingly, Robert Moses State Park will get over three million guests a yr. And when the vacationers begin arriving, they can inundate the realm and make it much more difficult to get round. Come on people! Move your picnics! I just wanna hike!
Length: 9.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy, slightly tougher should you head out to the lighthouse
Elevation Gain: eighty one feet
14. Jones Beach Boardwalk
While it’s only the second-biggest state park in Long Island, Jones Beach is probably the most visited since 5 and a half million folks go to every year.
But the enjoyable doesn’t finish there! Because guess what? The only state park that gets more visitors every year than Jones Beach is Niagara Falls. Oh yeah – it’s popular AF.
Now, once you’re here, the Boardwalk hike runs straight alongside the seaside, from Field 1 to Field 6 (such imaginative names!), is four miles lengthy, and good for all hiking talent ranges.
The Boardwalk can be used by cyclists, but pedestrians do get right of method, and there are indicators posted alongside the path to remind cyclists. So yeah, you shouldn’t have to fret too much about getting pummeled by a rogue bike.
Be warned though: Jones Beach State Park is on the Atlantic Ocean, so if any unhealthy climate happens, it tends to hit this small seaside pretty exhausting. Basically, if you get rained on it’ll really feel like the good flood to finish all of them.
Pro Tip: Field 1 has ample parking out there, so beginning your hike there, strolling along to Field 6, after which coming again again, is a perfect route for families who have to drive their drained children home after a fun day on the seaside spent conquering one of the best hiking trails on Long Island.
Length: 3.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 27 ft
15. Heckscher State Park Bike Path
Now, I know what you’re thinking, but, I pinkie promise, it’s totally okay to hike on this “Bike Path”.
Because the 2 completely different trail paths listed right here are a cushty 12 feet extensive and are even divided by a yellow line to maintain cyclists and hikers from smashing into each other.
And at slightly over three miles long, this is certainly one of the easiest of one of the best hiking trails on Long Island. I imply, the trail is paved and clean, and nearly completely flat, making it some of the accessible hikes for anybody with mobility points or a baby in tow.
Plus, If you’re feeling super retro, you presumably can even escape the rollerblades and dazzle spectators together with your inline abilities, yo!
There’s also loads of wildlife to see alongside the method in which since Heckscher State Park is known for being residence to a ton of White-tailed Deer.
And if you time it proper, you would possibly even be succesful of catch a baby deer being taught to run! However, if that magical moment doesn’t actually occur, there are also 280 different chook species to be noticed, so convey those binoculars!
Pro Tip: While fun for the complete household, the Bike Path doesn’t have a lot of shade. So, make sure to deliver appropriate safety from the solar – the last thing you need as a souvenir is a sunburn!
Length: three.2 miles
Difficulty: Super straightforward
Elevation Gain: Almost none, pretty stage all the greatest way around
16. Quogue Wildlife Refuge
The Quogue Wildlife Refuge first opened as a nature protect in 1934, and it has been delighting families, hikers, and basic outdoor enthusiasts ever since.
For hikers, the Quogue Wildlife Refuge is a deal with since there are several different hiking trails throughout the park, and whereas there are only around seven miles worth of trails here, you possibly can simply spend all day exploring them.
I personally like to begin out within the Butterfly Garden. Especially since this beautiful backyard isn’t just residence to butterflies, however other pollinators, too, like bees, and hummingbirds. Plus, when it’s spring and everything is in bloom, it’s extra special!
From there, I wish to zig-zag through the trails absorbing all the distinctive pure landscapes within the park.
Because not solely are there plenty of animals to identify, but there are also bog walks, and an ice exhibition, here too. And while I’m undoubtedly not a tree professional, I do know the refuge prides itself on its uncommon, but wholesome, Dwarf Pines and Pine Barrens.
These may be seen all alongside top-of-the-line hiking trails on Long Island, along with tons of Pine Oaks.
Pro Tip: The trails are open 365 days a 12 months from sundown to dawn, so benefit from that truth and get there early. I realize it sounds dreadful for my fellow not-a-morning-person hikers, however it will be price it, I promise!
Length: 7 miles of assorted hiking trails throughout the park (the trails often take round 2 to four hours to complete)
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Pretty level. No real elevation gain.
Moderate Hiking Trails on Long Island
17. Brookhaven Trail
At over 1,600 acres, Brookhaven State Park is likely one of the largest on Long Island. In reality, it was once owned by Brookhaven National Laboratory and was even a half of a military installation at one level.
Nowadays although, it’s house to some of the finest hiking trails on Long Island – one thing that I personally see as a huge upgrade!
FYI, this is also where you presumably can go to find a large quantity of the Long Island Central Pine Barrens. The barrens cover an area of greater than 100,000 acres and are publicly protected lands that stand as Long Island’s final remaining wilderness.
So if it’s pure, rugged wilderness that you’re on the lookout for, you’d be crazy not to come to Brookhaven!
Now, the principle draw for hikers right here is The Brookhaven Trail – a 4-mile loop that starts in the north of the park and heads south towards Paumanok Path.
This trail is more challenging than some of the other hikes on this record, so make sure you’re ready with some supplies and presumably some hiking poles.
Pro Tip: If you’re tremendous into botany, make certain to head into a variety of the scattered wetlands within the park. There are Christmas ferns, wild geraniums, and flowering dogwood to be discovered, as well as many other types of wildlife.
Length: three.9 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: ninety six toes
18. Cold Spring Harbor State Park (Nassau-Suffolk Trail)
Cold Spring Harbor could be the smallest State Park on this record (and the smallest in Long Island to boot) however it sits on the tip of one of many longer and more challenging hikes on Long Island: the Nassau-Suffolk Trail.
Depending on which sections of this 19-mile trail you hike, you’ll experience different levels of issue. The northern a part of the trail has more hills and may be powerful for anybody who struggles to climb steep slopes.
However, all those powerful climbs mean candy, candy views on the prime.
Likewise, the southern half is far easier and much flatter. Although, if it’s been raining then this a part of the trail can get exceptionally muddy.
Fortunately, at any point alongside the trail, you probably can divert off into one other park (such as Trail View Park within the northern half or Bethpage State Park in the south) if the hike seems like it’s getting a bit too difficult.
Pro Tip: Because it’s tougher, this explicit hike attracts more folks than others. It can get fairly busy on the Nassau-Suffolk Trail, especially in the course of the late spring/early autumn interval, so ensure you take into account the fact that it’d get somewhat crowded!
Length: 19 miles
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult relying on which elements you select
Elevation Gain: 864 toes up and 891 feet down during the northern part, pretty flat in the southern areas
19. Hither Hills State Park
There are a number of hiking choices within this park. However, I positively advocate doing the entire loop around. This way, you get to experience the total extent of the park – one thing that makes this probably the greatest hiking trails on Long Island.
Now, the park (and hiking path) starts at the Hither Hills Campsite. So comply with the indicators to that point, then keep heading alongside the beachfront until you see signs directing you in path of the park and the Walking Dunes.
From there, the terrain will slowly transform from sandy beaches into woods and marshland. Don’t let the sandy coast idiot you although because that is no place for these flip-flops on your seashore vacation packing list!
Next, maintain following the trail and you’ll soon end up back alongside the coast on the Walking Dunes trail.
This is certainly the most well-liked a half of the trail, so you may run into more folks right here (the dunes could be accessed directly with out doing the total loop). But it’s a wide-open space, so it never feels that busy.
As the name would possibly recommend, the sand dunes ‘walk’ varies a bit every year depending on wind pace and course. You can see the dunes from the security of the fores thought, or walk proper along them. Just be careful as a result of it gets windy AF out there!
Once you’re glad admiring the dunes, you probably can mosey on over to the subsequent part of trail and continue along the coast. The remainder of the coast is a mix of woods, marsh, and sandy dunes, making it one of the distinctive and greatest hikes on Long Island.
I won’t misinform you, with the ever-shifting sands, it could be simple to lose the path. But, when you get misplaced, just observe the coast, and eventually, you’ll discover your method.
Pro Tip: Make sure to convey a hat or scarf to guard your face. If the wind picks up, it might be a nightmare making an attempt to avoid getting sand EVERYWHERE, together with however definitely not restricted to your eyes.
Length: eight miles (this hike could be carried out in 2 to 4 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 423 toes, but despite the name, it’s relatively gradual
Difficult Hiking Trails on Long Island
20. Long Island Greenbelt Trail
The Greenbelt Trail is the longest trail on this list. So yeah, it’s basically like the Mother of all the best hiking trails on Long Island.
Or, roughly 33 miles from top to bottom, from coast to coast, Smithtown to Great South.
In reality, it’s so long it really passes through many of the state parks we’ve been talking about, including Connetquot River, Caleb Smith, and tons of others.
So, should you can hike everything of this trail, you’re the Long Island trails, grandmaster.
Now, along with being lengthy, this trail can be trickier than lots of the others. It’s marked by white blazes along the way in which, but because of the length, not all of the markers are clear.
That’s why the route can sometimes be tough to comply with, as you’ll be crossing every kind of terrain.
Heck, you may even end up leaving these pure areas and venturing onto busy suburban streets. While this can be disorientating and take you out of hardcore hiker mode – simply stick to the trail every thing shall be ok.
I imply, It’s not the Mother for nothing!
Pro Tip: You’ll see white blazes on both posts and bushes. Where there’s one blaze, proceed straight on. If there are two blazes, that means you have to turn in the course of the topmost blaze. Good luck, and have fun hiking Long Island!
Length: 33 miles
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation Gain: 888 ft
Map of the Best Hiking Trails on Long Island
Click right here for the full map. Additional Hiking/ NYC Travel Resources You’ll Love!
Well, my outdoor/Long Island loving pal, that virtually concludes this epic list of the most effective hiking trails on Long Island!
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