The best walks and hikes around Babylon
3.9
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45
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12
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Hiking trails around Babylon, New York, offer diverse outdoor opportunities across interconnected park systems and natural features. The region is characterized by serene lakes, ponds, and woodlands, providing varied terrain for hikers. Trails often feature level paths, accommodating both short walks and longer excursions. These routes provide access to lakeside paths, flat woodland trails, and greenways.
Best hiking trails around Babylon
- The most popular hiking route is Argyle Lake to Belmont Lake, a 7.7 miles (12.3 km) trail that takes 3 hours 7 minutes to complete. This moderate route connects two significant lakes through scenic parkland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve loop, an easy 3.1 miles (5.0 km) path. This trail offers a loop through a unique oak brush plains landscape.
- Local hikers also love the Belmont Lake State Park Loop, a 1.5 miles (2.4 km) trail leading through lakeside scenery, often completed in about 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Babylon is defined by interconnected park systems, serene lakes, and woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Babylon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.9 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 60 hikers have used komoot to explore Babylon's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.0
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7
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7.69km
01:57
10m
10m
Embark on the Home Trail for an easy hike through a natural, wooded environment, perfect for a relaxed outing. This route spans 4.8 miles (7.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 41 feet (13 metres), making it accessible for most. You can expect to complete this pleasant journey in approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the unpaved path as you go. Keep an eye out for the tranquil waters of Belmont Lake and Southards Pond, and the view of the waterfall at the Belmont Lake outlet.
Planning your visit to the Home Trail is straightforward, as it's located within Belmont Lake State Park. Parking is generally available at the park, providing a convenient starting point for your adventure. This easy route is an excellent option for family-friendly hikes, offering a peaceful escape without requiring extensive preparation. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the quiet natural surroundings.
The Home Trail offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature in a local state park setting. It's designed for those seeking a gentle introduction to hiking or a leisurely stroll amidst trees and water features. The trail's easy difficulty and minimal elevation make it a standout choice for beginners or anyone looking for a refreshing outdoor experience without a strenuous challenge. It provides a lovely glimpse into the natural beauty of the area, making it a notable option for a quick escape.
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2.36km
00:36
0m
0m
Hike the easy 1.5-mile Belmont Lake State Park Loop, gaining 10 feet in 35 minutes, with scenic lake views and a waterfall.
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1.37km
00:21
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Enjoy an easy 0.8-mile hike on the Plover Trail in Gardiner County Park, perfect for a quick nature escape in West Bay Shore.
4.0
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15
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12.3km
03:07
20m
20m
Hike the 7.7-mile Argyle Lake to Belmont Lake trail in Belmont Lake State Park, enjoying lake views, wooded paths, and wildlife.
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4.96km
01:15
10m
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This easy 3.1-mile Main Loop hiking trail in Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve offers varied scenery and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
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Popular around Babylon
Tips from the Community
From this spot you get a nice view of a small waterfall flowing out of Belmont Lake into Carl's River. This is a pleasant spot to pause as you ride around Belmont Lake State Park and the surrounding area.
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Covering 813 acres, this property has over 23.5 miles of paved and unpaved trails meandering through lush greenery. Benches are scattered throughout the area, providing convenient spots to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
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Belmont Lake State Park and the path running through it makes a perfect spot to cycle through off of the road and enjoy the green scenery. With the Carlis River running through it, there is plenty to see along the way.
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Argyle Lake, situated in Belmont Lake State Park, boasts a serene 0.8-mile loop. Meandering through wooded landscapes with occasional open vistas and glimpses of the lake, this trail offers a tranquil escape.
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Southards Pond is the main attraction with Southards Pond Park. The main trail basically walks up to the shore of the water on the west side of the reservoir and offers an immersion into nature without having to leave the city. This spot, on the south side of the pond, crosses the Carlls River on a bridge and looks out over the water.
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Southards Pond Park is a popular spot for easy hiking in Babylon, New York. There is a dirt hiking loop that circles the Southards Pond (the centerpiece of the park) and a couple other paths that follow the Carlls River south.
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If you are looking for a scenic and relaxing trail run, you might want to check out Southards Pond Park in Babylon, New York. This park features a 1.4-mile loop trail that circles around a large pond, where you can enjoy the views of the water and the wildlife. The trail is mostly flat and easy, with some dirt footpaths and wooden bridges. You can access the trail from many points around the pond, but the south shoreline offers the easiest access. The park is open from dawn to dusk. Southards Pond Park is a great place to enjoy nature and get some fresh air while running.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Babylon?
There are over 10 hiking routes documented in Babylon, offering a variety of experiences through its interconnected parks and woodlands. These trails range from easy strolls to moderate excursions.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Babylon is well-suited for easy hikes, with 8 out of 10 routes classified as easy. Many trails feature level paths through parks and along lakesides. A good option is the Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve loop, an easy 3.1-mile path through a unique landscape.
What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around Babylon?
Hiking around Babylon offers diverse scenery, primarily characterized by interconnected park systems, serene lakes, ponds, and woodlands. You'll find lakeside paths, flat woodland trails, and greenways, with opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Babylon?
Yes, many trails in Babylon are designed as loops, providing convenient circular walks. For example, the Belmont Lake loop from Baywood is a 2.9-mile trail that takes you through scenic lakeside areas.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Babylon?
Many parks and trails in the Babylon area are dog-friendly, though leash laws and specific park regulations may apply. It's always best to check the rules for individual parks like Belmont Lake State Park or Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve before you go.
What wildlife might I see while hiking in Babylon?
The natural areas around Babylon, particularly near ponds and lakes like Southards Pond, are known for their wildlife. Hikers frequently spot ospreys, owls, and various other bird species, especially near water bodies.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the hiking routes?
Yes, several natural and man-made attractions can be found near or along the trails. You can visit the Argyle Lake, Southards Pond, or enjoy the view of the waterfall at the Belmont Lake outlet. The Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve itself is a unique natural feature.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Babylon?
The trails in Babylon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars. Hikers often praise the interconnected park systems, the serene lake views, and the generally level paths that make for enjoyable walks.
Are there any longer hiking options for more experienced hikers?
While many trails are easy, there are longer options available. The Argyle Lake to Belmont Lake — Belmont Lake State Park route is a moderate 7.7-mile trail that connects two significant lakes through scenic parkland, taking over three hours to complete.
Is there public transport access to the hiking trails in Babylon?
Babylon is accessible by public transport, particularly via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Babylon station. From there, local bus services or short taxi rides can connect you to various park entrances and trailheads. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific routes to your chosen starting point.
Are there good options for winter hiking in Babylon?
Yes, the relatively level paths and sheltered woodlands of Babylon can offer pleasant winter hiking experiences, especially after a fresh snowfall. The Snow-Covered Forest Trail loop from Deer Park is an example of a route that can be particularly scenic in winter.
What are the best times of year to hike in Babylon?
Spring and fall are particularly popular for hiking in Babylon due to comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. However, the trails are accessible year-round, with summer offering lush greenery and winter providing a quiet, snow-dusted landscape.
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