5.0
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Family friendly hiking trails in Patriot'S Hollow State Forest traverse 42.4 acres of pristine woodlands on Long Island, New York. The landscape features a diverse array of mature native trees, including oaks and hickories, alongside areas of young successional forest. This natural environment provides varied terrain and a rich habitat for local wildlife. The trails offer a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and families seeking outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 19, 2026
6
hikers
4.49km
01:10
30m
30m
The McAllister County Park Loop offers a delightful blend of landscapes, guiding you through dense hardwood forests, across salt marshes, and along a picturesque coastline. You'll discover impressive sand dunes…
1
hikers
1.40km
00:22
10m
10m
The Avalon Nature Preserve Green Trail offers a delightful, easy woodland walk, perfect for a quick nature immersion. As you follow the 0.9-mile (1.4 km) path, you'll find yourself under…

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1.61km
00:25
10m
10m
The Avalon Nature Preserve White Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a blend of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, making it a great option for family hiking in Stony Brook,…
16
hikers
4.60km
01:12
30m
30m
The Avalon Nature Preserve loop offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, winding through diverse landscapes that feel much further from civilization than they are. You'll traverse peaceful woodlands,…
1
hikers
9.22km
02:21
30m
30m
Embark on the McAllister County Park loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 5.7 miles (9.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 89 feet (27 metres). You can expect to…
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McAllister County Park offers a remarkable coastal experience along the Long Island Sound. This scenic park seamlessly blends towering sand dunes with a picturesque cove dubbed Pirate's Cove, creating a visually striking contrast. The rugged dunes gracefully descend toward the tranquil waters of the cove, presenting a captivating landscape.
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Avalon Nature Preserve, in Head of the Harbor, captivates with its diverse ecosystems. Spanning 216 acres, it features woodlands, wetlands, and serene trails, providing a peaceful haven for nature enthusiasts.
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Avalon Nature Preserve, in Head of the Harbor, captivates with its diverse ecosystems. Spanning 216 acres, it features woodlands, wetlands, and serene trails, providing a peaceful haven for nature enthusiasts.
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There are 8 family-friendly hiking routes in Patriot's Hollow State Forest, with 7 of them rated as easy and 1 as moderate, making them suitable for various family preferences.
For families with young children looking for shorter, easier walks, consider the Avalon Nature Preserve Green Trail, which is about 1.4 km, or the Avalon Nature Preserve White Trail, at approximately 1.6 km. Both offer gentle paths through the natural environment.
Yes, several routes offer a circular experience perfect for families. The Avalon Nature Preserve loop is a popular choice, covering about 4.6 km through lush greenery. Another option is the McAllister County Park Loop, which is around 4.5 km and provides a diverse natural setting.
The moderate climate of Setauket-East Setauket ensures pleasant conditions for outdoor activities throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer particularly comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, though the forest is enjoyable in all seasons.
Patriot's Hollow State Forest features pristine woodlands with a diverse array of mature native trees like oaks and hickories, as well as areas of young successional forest. It's a rich habitat for wildlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and observing common forest animals.
Absolutely. The forest's diverse natural environment, with its varied tree species and lush greenery, provides a rich habitat for many bird species. It's an excellent location for families to engage in birdwatching and observe local wildlife.
Beyond its natural beauty, Patriot's Hollow State Forest holds historical value. Local historians suggest that American patriots working for George Washington traversed these woods during the Revolutionary War, adding a unique historical context to your family's hike.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil natural beauty, well-marked trails, and the serene escape it offers for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
Yes, the area offers amenities such as a parking lot, making it a convenient destination for individuals and families planning a visit.
For families with older children or those looking for a longer adventure, the McAllister County Park loop offers a moderate 9.2 km path. This trail provides a more extensive exploration of the diverse natural environment.
Yes, the forest offers well-marked trails, which helps families navigate easily and enjoy their hiking experience without concern for getting lost.
Yes, in addition to the hiking opportunities, the area provides amenities such as a leisure playground, making it a convenient and fun destination for families with children.


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