The best walks and hikes around Nyack
4.8
(61)
909
hikers
95
hikes
Hiking around Nyack explores the western banks of the Hudson River, a landscape characterized by the dramatic Palisades cliffs and forested hills. The region offers a diverse array of outdoor activities, featuring riverside paths, challenging forested climbs, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Hudson Valley. Trails often combine flat sections along the water with more demanding ascents into surrounding state parks.
Best hiking trails around Nyack
- The most popular hiking route is Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge Path, a 7.3 miles (11.8 km) trail that takes about 3 hours to complete. This route offers expansive views of the Hudson River from the shared-use path on the bridge.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hook Mountain and Nyack Beach Loop, a moderate 6.7 miles (10.8 km) path. This trail offers sweeping river views before climbing Hook Mountain for panoramic overlooks.
- Local hikers also love the Pierson Park and Tarrytown Riverwalk Loop, a 2.0 miles (3.2 km) trail leading through parkland, often completed in about 48 minutes.
- Hiking around Nyack is defined by riverside paths, forested climbs, and views from the Palisades cliffs. The trail network provides options for both level walks and more challenging hikes with elevation changes.
- The routes in Nyack are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 800 hikers have used komoot to explore Nyack's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
5.0
(7)
79
hikers
10.8km
03:10
330m
300m
Embark on the Hook Mountain and Nyack Beach Loop, a moderate hike spanning 6.7 miles (10.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1068 feet (326 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 3 hours and 10 minutes. The trail guides you through a mix of riverside paths and wooded climbs, offering diverse scenery as you ascend. From the summit, you'll find expansive views of the Hudson River, looking out towards Nyack and the surrounding mountains.
Planning your visit requires attention to the varied terrain; you'll encounter soft dirt, rocky sections, and some paved areas. The climb up Hook Mountain can be steep in parts, so be sure to wear sturdy footwear to navigate the rocky and loose gravel surfaces safely. Parking is generally available at Nyack Beach State Park, making it a convenient starting point for your adventure.
This route is a highlight within Hook Mountain State Park, known for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical remnants. As you hike, keep an eye out for old brick structures that dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into the area's past. The trail's position provides nearly 360-degree vistas, making it a notable option for those seeking panoramic views of the Hudson Valley.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
11.5km
03:03
120m
110m
Hike the 7.1-mile Rockwood Hall, Pocantico River, and Old Croton Aqueduct Loop, a moderate trail with Hudson River views and historical ruin
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3
hikers
3.15km
00:48
10m
10m
Embark on the Pierson Park and Tarrytown Riverwalk Loop for a refreshing hike along the Hudson River. This easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) route offers minimal elevation gain of just 19 feet (6 metres), making it a perfect quick outing that takes about 47 minutes. As you walk, you'll enjoy expansive river views, with the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge and the historic Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse as prominent landmarks.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail features accessible paved riverfront walkways and wide paths, some with crushed stone surfaces. Pierson Park provides convenient amenities like a playground, picnic areas, and benches, making it an ideal spot for families. You'll generally find parking available directly at Pierson Park, giving you easy access to the trailhead.
This route stands out for its tranquil atmosphere, with paths lined by green spaces and vibrant flower beds. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant Manhattan skyline, adding an unexpected urban vista to your riverside stroll. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the Hudson Valley without a strenuous climb.
725km
215:55
18,870m
18,710m
Hike New York's Long Path, a difficult 450.4-mile route from the George Washington Bridge to the Adirondacks, offering diverse terrain.
25
hikers
11.8km
03:01
50m
50m
Hike the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge Path, a 7.3-mile moderate route with 162 feet of gain and panoramic Hudson River views.
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Tips from the Community
It is significantly better to cycle on this side of the Hudson, as you can also see from the path that runs directly along the Hudson.
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Manhattan is an unlikely place for the start of a long distance trail, but W175th Station is, indeed, the start of the Long Path. The 358-mile-long trail runs from this point to the Adirondack Park.
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Some rocks along the Long Path offer an open view of the Hudson River. You can take advantage of this quiet spot to pause and enjoy the moment.
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Long set of stairs to take you up along the ridge. The stairs are part of the Long Path and are made of wood and dirt.
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Point Lookout is a popular viewpoint in Palisades Interstate Park. There are great views of the Hudson River.
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Wonderful gravel path along the Hudson
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This trail leads on the Hudson River direktly on the shoreline. Its wonderfull to ride
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Bike and pedestrian path that takes you over the Cuomo Bridge. There are several viewpoints off of the path to enjoy the wonderful vistas of the Hudson River.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Nyack?
Yes, there are over 70 designated hiking routes in the Nyack area. The trails offer a great deal of variety, from flat, paved paths along the Hudson River to strenuous climbs up the cliffs of the Palisades.
What are the trails like in terms of difficulty?
The trails cater to all levels. The majority are rated as easy, perfect for leisurely walks. There are also numerous moderate routes that involve more significant elevation gain, and a couple of difficult trails for those seeking a serious challenge.
Are there any good hikes for families with children?
Absolutely. For a very easy and accessible outing, the Pierson Park and Tarrytown Riverwalk is a short, flat path through parkland. Another excellent choice is the paved 3.2-mile loop around the lake at Rockland Lake State Park, which is ideal for walkers of all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the trails near Nyack?
Many trails in the area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. State Parks like Nyack Beach, Hook Mountain, and Tallman Mountain generally permit leashed dogs on their trails. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go.
Where can I find a hike with a waterfall?
Buttermilk Falls County Park is your best destination for a waterfall hike. It features one of the tallest waterfalls in Rockland County. The trails there are relatively short but involve a steep climb to the top of the falls, offering rewarding views.
What's a good circular hike with great views?
The Refreshing point loop from Valley Cottage is a popular choice. This moderate loop takes you through woodland and up to viewpoints with fantastic vistas over the Hudson River valley and Rockland Lake.
Are there any long-distance hiking options available?
Yes, the Long Path, a 357-mile trail stretching from NYC to the Catskills, passes directly through the Nyack area. You can hike a particularly dramatic section from Nyack to Haverstraw, which offers a challenging full-day trek along rocky ridges with epic river views.
What are the best places for views of the Hudson River?
For panoramic views, the summit of Hook Mountain is unbeatable, offering sightlines over the river, Rockland Lake, and even the Manhattan skyline on a clear day. For ground-level scenery, the flat trail at Nyack Beach State Park follows the river's edge, providing beautiful views of the water against the backdrop of the Palisades cliffs.
Is it possible to hike across the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge?
Yes, you can. The Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge path is a shared-use path for walkers and cyclists that spans the Hudson River. It's a unique hike that provides wide-open, expansive views up and down the river from its midpoint.
Where is the best place to park for hiking?
Parking availability depends on your chosen trail. Nyack Beach State Park, Hook Mountain State Park, and Rockland Lake State Park all have dedicated parking areas, though a vehicle use fee may apply. Arriving early on weekends is recommended as lots can fill up quickly.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Nyack?
The trails around Nyack are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the stunning views of the Hudson River and the sheer variety of the terrain, which combines easy, flat riverside sections with challenging, rocky climbs all in one area.
Are there any gentle, shaded trails for a hot day?
The Raymond G. Esposito Trail, a former rail line connecting Nyack with Piermont, is a great option. It's a flat and mostly shaded multi-use path that offers pleasant views of the surrounding marshlands.
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