4.8
(9)
194
hikers
6
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Salt Hill State Forest traverse a diverse landscape characterized by rocky ridgelines, dense deciduous woodlands, and rolling hills. The forest features significant natural elements such as the Salt Hill Summit, rising to 699 feet, and the picturesque Blue Lake. Hikers will encounter brooks, vernal pools, and cliffs, with some areas forming part of the New York City Croton Watershed. This varied topography offers a range of hiking experiences.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
5
hikers
4.02km
01:03
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
19.4km
05:12
230m
230m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Sign up for free
2
hikers
7.69km
02:09
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
10.4km
02:52
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
2.27km
00:38
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The memorial is a giant sundial from steel salvaged from the World Trade Center site. There are several plaques on the memorial to remember the planes that crashed, the first responders, and some messages of hope for the future.
0
0
Croton Reservoir is one of the three main water supply systems that provide water to New York City.
0
0
Originally built as a primary school in the 1860s, the Crotonville School Building later became the Parker Bale American Legion Post #1590. After closing as a school in 1931, it has served as a meeting place for the largest US wartime veterans service organization, carrying on a rich legacy of community service.
0
0
With construction beginning in 1837, the Old Croton Aqueduct was a response to devastating fires and epidemics in New York City, which lacked adequate clean water. Irish immigrant laborers carried out much of the demanding work. Supplying New York City until 1955, part of the historic Aqueduct reopened in 1987, continuing to provide water to Ossining. However, the Aqueduct's intended capacity quickly proved insufficient for New York's rapidly expanding population. Just a few miles east, the much larger New Croton Aqueduct, engineered by B.S. Church, opened underground in 1890 with triple the capacity, still supplying New York City today.
1
0
Beautiful dam and waterfalls. Nice climb if coming from old quaker bridge
0
0
The New Croton Dam forms the New Croton Reservoir, part of the New York City water supply system. Construction began in 1892 and was completed in 1906. The dam is 266 feet broad at its base and 297 feet high from base to crest. At the time of its completion, it was the tallest dam in the world. Croton Gorge Park offers views of the dam from directly downstream. The Old Croton Trail, a popular hiking and biking path that roughly follows the route of the Old Croton Aqueduct, has an endpoint near the base of the dam. Teatown Lake Reservation, a nature preserve, lies nearby as does Croton Point Park in Croton-on-Hudson.
0
0
Just an hour north of NYC you will find a massive mountain biking trail networt at Blue Mountain Reservation. The trail that leads to the summit – called Blue Mountain Summit Trail – can be ridden in both directions: pure fun as a downhill and brutally technical as a climb.
0
0
There are 7 hiking routes in Salt Hill State Forest that are easily accessible from nearby bus stations, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
Hikes accessible by bus in Salt Hill State Forest feature a diverse topography including rocky ridgelines, dense deciduous woodlands, rolling hills, brooks, and vernal pools. You'll also encounter picturesque features like Blue Lake and various ponds and wetlands.
Yes, for an easier, family-friendly walk, consider the Peekskill Station – Peekskill Waterfront Park loop from City of Peekskill. This route is approximately 4 km long and features minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a relaxed outing.
Salt Hill State Forest is generally dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations for any restrictions. Most trails allow leashed dogs. Ensure you carry waste bags and plenty of water for your pet.
Many of the bus-accessible routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Lounsbury Pond – Myx Monster Trail loop from Village of Buchanan and the Blue Mountain Summit Trail – Lounsbury Pond loop from Village of Buchanan are both excellent circular options.
Hikers can discover fascinating historical remnants such as old stone walls, foundations, and root cellars. Near Blue Lake, you might even find the remains of what appears to have been a pump house, adding an element of historical exploration to your hike.
Salt Hill State Forest offers beautiful hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, summer provides shaded trails, autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, and winter offers serene, snow-covered landscapes. Each season provides a unique perspective on the forest's natural beauty.
Yes, for a more challenging experience, consider the New Croton Dam – New Croton Dam loop from Croton-Harmon. This difficult route spans nearly 20 km and features significant elevation changes, offering a rewarding adventure for seasoned hikers.
The bus-accessible trails in Salt Hill State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic beauty of Blue Lake, and the convenience of accessing these trails via public transport.
While specific viewpoints are not always marked, the Salt Hill Summit, rising to 699 feet, offers potential views of the surrounding area. Many trails also provide picturesque vistas of Blue Lake and the varied forest landscape.
Moderate trails vary in length. For instance, the Academy Hill – Lounsbury Pond loop from City of Peekskill is about 10.4 km, while the Lounsbury Pond – Myx Monster Trail loop from Village of Buchanan is around 9.3 km. These routes offer a good balance of distance and elevation.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.