The best walks and hikes around Elmont
4.4
(5)
90
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking trails around Elmont, New York, offer a variety of outdoor experiences within its parks and green spaces. The region features flat, wooded paths, lakeside loops, and freshwater wetlands, providing accessible nature outings. These routes are primarily located a short distance from the community, characterized by well-maintained pathways and lush greenery. The landscape includes areas like Valley Stream State Park with extensive trails and the South County Trailway, part of a broader network.
Best hiking trails around Elmont
- The most…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
6.98km
01:51
70m
60m
Explore Alley Pond Park Loop, an easy 4.3-mile (7.0 km) hike in Queens, New York City, that takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. You will gain a…
3
hikers
3.14km
00:48
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Hempstead Lake State Park North Loop, a route that guides you through pleasant wooded sections and past the tranquil waters of Northeast and…
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1
hikers
10.3km
02:39
50m
30m
Explore the Cunningham Park Trail System, a moderate 6.4-mile hike in Queens, offering diverse terrain and a refreshing urban escape.
3.06km
00:48
20m
20m
Hike an easy 1.9-mile loop through woodlands and past Golden Pond in Crocheron Park, Queens, offering an urban oasis escape.
1.66km
00:26
10m
10m
Hike the easy 1.0-mile Cunningham Park Orange Trail, a 25-minute loop through rolling hardwood forests and past kettle ponds in Queens, NY.
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Popular around Elmont
Tips from the Community
Teepee Trail – named after a teepee that was found at this location – is an easy, fun trail with lots of wood features.
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Thrilla Trail starts gently with nice berms and optional drops. Later on you hit a few difficult skinnies and some rocky sections and bigger drops before you finally reach the pumptrack.
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Cunningham Mountain Bike Trail Park is a great playground for mountain bikers of all skill levels. The park has a great mix of everything from plain trails to technical trails to pump tracks and jumps parks. And the best thing is: You can easily reach the park by train. The park is just a two mile ride from the F line Station at 179th St and Hillside Ave and a two and a half mile ride from the LIRR Hollis Station and a three mile ride from the LIRR Jamaica Station.
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I would not consider this a destination, nor a point of exploration. It's a sanctuary for those who live nearby and an oasis for those of us passing through, which includes cyclists and birds. It's a cool and refreshing treat when making your way between points of nature. If it's convenient add it to your route.
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A great place to sit, rest and take in the view. I wonder what this used to look like years ago...
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly hikes near Elmont?
Yes, the area is well-suited for beginners. Most trails are located in nearby state parks and are generally flat. A great option is the Valley Stream Pond loop from Valley Stream, which is a short, 1.6-mile walk that's perfect for a quick nature outing.
Can you suggest a good hike for families with children?
Hempstead Lake State Park is an excellent choice for families. It offers several easy trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The McDonald Pond loop from Lakeview is a pleasant, relatively short walk within the park that kids can enjoy.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Many parks in Nassau County have specific rules regarding dogs. For instance, Hempstead Lake State Park generally requires dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check the specific park's regulations before you go, as rules can vary between preserves and state parks.
What are some popular nature parks for hiking near Elmont?
There are several highly-regarded parks a short drive from Elmont. Valley Stream State Park is a convenient option with nature trails perfect for casual walks. For more extensive hiking, Hempstead Lake State Park, the largest in Nassau County, is a local favorite.
Another popular spot is the Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve, a unique park on a former landfill that offers trails with impressive views of the surrounding area.
How many hiking trails are there around Elmont?
You can explore over a dozen curated hiking routes around Elmont. The selection ranges from short, easy loops within local parks to more moderate trails through woodlands, offering a good variety for different fitness levels.
Is it possible to get to the trails using public transport?
Yes, some trailheads are accessible via public transportation. For example, Valley Stream State Park and Hempstead Lake State Park can be reached by combining the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) with a short bus ride or walk, making them feasible options for those without a car.
Are there any trails with good views for sunset?
For elevated views, consider the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve in Merrick. Its highest point, at 155 feet, offers panoramic views that can include the Jones Beach Tower and even the distant New York City skyline, making it a great spot to watch the sunset.
What do other hikers think of the trails near Elmont?
The trails around Elmont are well-regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Hikers often appreciate the accessibility of the parks and the peaceful, wooded paths that provide a quick escape into nature.
Can you recommend a more challenging or longer hike?
For a moderately challenging hike, consider the Turtle Pond loop from Glen Oaks. This 5.7-mile route involves some gentle elevation changes through a forested area, offering a bit more of a workout than the flatter park loops.
Are there any historical trails in the area?
Yes, you can explore the Historic Grove loop from Oakland Gardens. This trail takes you through a section of Alley Pond Park, which has a rich history and features some of the oldest trees in New York City.
Are there any waterfall hikes near Elmont?
The landscape of Long Island is predominantly flat, characterized by coastal plains, wetlands, and low hills. As a result, you won't find natural waterfalls along the hiking trails in the immediate vicinity of Elmont.
Where can I go for a hike with good birdwatching opportunities?
Hempstead Lake State Park is a prime location for birdwatching, as its diverse habitats and large lake attract a wide variety of bird species. Twin Lakes Preserve in Wantagh is another excellent spot, known for sightings of swans, herons, and ospreys around its freshwater ponds.
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