New York City is famous for its bustling streets and iconic skyline, but just beyond the city limits, it’s also surrounded by incredible places for outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for fresh air and beautiful scenery, here are some fun activities you can do around NYC. Get ready to hike, paddle, bike, and explore—all within a couple of hours of the city.
1. Hiking in Harriman State Park
Just an hour north of New York City, Harriman State Park is a fantastic place for hiking, with over 200 miles of trails. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a more challenging mountain hike, this park has something for everyone. It’s full of beautiful forests, peaceful lakes, and amazing views, especially along the Appalachian Trail, which runs through the park.
The trails vary in difficulty, so if you’re new to hiking, you can enjoy an easy stroll around one of the park’s many lakes. If you’re more experienced, you can try climbing some of the higher mountains, which offer incredible panoramic views of the area. From the top, you can see miles of rolling hills, forests, and lakes stretching out in all directions.
If you prefer a more relaxed hike, you can visit some of the park’s beautiful lakes, like Lake Sebago or Lake Tiorati, where you can take in the views, enjoy a picnic, or just take a break by the water.
For those who like a challenge, you can try the Bear Mountain trail or the famous “Lemon Squeezer” section of the Appalachian Trail, where you have to squeeze between tight rocks. These hikes offer some of the best views, but they’re a bit tougher.
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2. Camping at Fahnestock State Park
If you’ve ever wanted to sleep under the stars, Fahnestock State Park is the perfect place for it. Just an hour and a half from New York City, this park is a peaceful escape where you can camp surrounded by nature. The campgrounds are located in a beautiful area full of forests and lakes, so you’ll feel like you’re far away from the city.
Fahnestock has something for everyone. There’s a lovely swimming lake where you can cool off during the day, making it a great spot for families or anyone who’s new to camping. After a fun day by the water, you can relax around the campfire, enjoy a meal, and watch the stars come out over the forest.
In the morning, you can wake up and start exploring the park’s miles of trails. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a more challenging hike, there are plenty of options. You can hike through the woods, along streams, or around the lakes, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. The trails vary in difficulty, so it’s a great spot for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Fahnestock State Park is a fantastic place to disconnect from the busy world, enjoy the fresh air, and spend quality time outdoors.
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3. Fishing at Prospect Park Lake
If you're looking for a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy some fishing, Prospect Park Lake in Brooklyn is a great choice. Located right in the heart of the city, it’s a perfect place to spend the day unwinding and enjoying nature without having to travel far from home. The lake is stocked with fish like bass, bluegill, and other species, so there’s always a good chance you’ll catch something.
Fishing at Prospect Park is a simple and calming experience. You can find a quiet spot along the lake, set up your gear, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The park is surrounded by trees and greenery, which makes you feel like you're deep in nature, even though you're in the middle of Brooklyn.
One of the best parts about fishing here is that you can take your time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, it’s a laid-back way to spend the day. Just be sure to follow the park’s “catch and release” rules, which help protect the fish and keep the lake healthy for everyone.
In addition to fishing, you can enjoy the beautiful park itself. After a few hours on the lake, you can take a walk around the park, visit the nearby meadows, or just relax under the shade of a tree. It's a great way to escape the noise of the city and reconnect with nature.
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4. Snowshoeing at Bear Mountain State Park
When winter arrives and the snow begins to fall, Bear Mountain State Park becomes a winter wonderland, perfect for outdoor adventures. It’s one of the best spots to enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, making it a great place for a fun winter day trip from the city.
Snowshoeing at Bear Mountain is a fantastic way to explore the park during the colder months. The trails are lined with snow-covered trees, creating a peaceful, beautiful scene that makes you feel like you're in a snowy forest. Whether you’re new to snowshoeing or an experienced adventurer, there are plenty of trails to explore, ranging from easy paths to more challenging routes. It’s a fun way to get outside, get some exercise, and enjoy the winter landscape.
While you’re out on the trails, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding mountains. The peaceful atmosphere and fresh, crisp air make it a perfect spot for a winter escape. You might even spot some wildlife, like deer or winter birds, as you make your way along the snowy trails.
If you enjoy cross-country skiing, Bear Mountain offers those trails too. You can glide through the snow-covered woods, enjoying the quiet of the park and the beautiful winter scenery.
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5. Cycling on the Lenape Trail in New York
If you enjoy cycling and want to explore New York’s beautiful outdoors, the Lenape Trail is a great place to ride. This trail stretches for miles and takes you through scenic areas, offering a mix of natural landscapes and views of the city. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just looking for a relaxing ride, the Lenape Trail has something for everyone.
The trail is perfect for cycling because it’s mostly flat, making it easy to ride at your own pace. As you pedal along, you’ll pass through wooded areas, quiet parks, and spots with great views of rivers and lakes. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy city, where you can enjoy nature while getting some exercise.
One of the highlights of cycling on the Lenape Trail is the chance to see local wildlife and beautiful plants along the way. You might spot birds, squirrels, or even deer if you're lucky. The trail is also a wonderful way to discover some hidden gems in the area, including historic sites and peaceful spots by the water.
If you’re looking to make a day of it, you can stop at some of the parks and rest areas along the trail for a break. Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water or simply take a moment to relax and take in the scenery.
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6. Paddling at Blydenburgh County Park in New York
If you love being on the water, paddling at Blydenburgh County Park is a great way to spend a day. Located on Long Island, this peaceful park offers a beautiful lake where you can kayak or canoe while enjoying the natural surroundings.
The lake at Blydenburgh County Park is calm and quiet, making it a perfect spot for paddling. You can rent a kayak or canoe at the park and spend your time floating along the water, taking in the scenic views of trees, marshes, and open skies. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy nature, and you don’t need to be an expert to have fun on the water.
As you paddle, you might see all kinds of wildlife, like ducks, birds, and turtles. The area around the lake is full of greenery, which makes it a peaceful place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can take your time exploring the lake, gliding past the trees and enjoying the fresh air.
If you’re looking for a more active adventure, you can also paddle around the nearby wetlands, where you might see even more animals and enjoy different views of the park. It’s a great way to connect with nature while getting some exercise.
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Download Avenza Maps
Whether you’re looking to hike, paddle, bike, or simply enjoy the outdoors, the New York City area offers plenty of amazing spots to explore. From the peaceful lakes and forests of Harriman State Park and Blydenburgh County Park to the exciting cycling trails of the Lenape Trail and the winter adventures at Bear Mountain, there’s something for every nature lover. These activities are not only fun but also a great way to connect with nature and take a break from city life. So, download Avenza Maps, grab your gear, hit the trails or water, and enjoy all that the outdoors around New York City has to offer!
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