The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Great River

This Long Island Greenbelt Trail Loop offers a delightful journey through varied terrain, showcasing the region's natural beauty without demanding a huge effort. You'll wander through peaceful wooded areas and encounter gently rolling hills, with the trail occasionally following the course of the Connetquot River. Keep an eye out for Bunce's Bridge, a charming landmark that provides a pleasant crossing over the water, adding a touch of character to your hike.

Planning your visit to this moderate 6.3-mile (10.2 km) loop, which typically takes around 2 hours and 34 minutes, is straightforward. The trail has a minimal elevation gain of 38 feet (12 metres), making it accessible for many. While the route is generally well-marked in its wooded sections, it's wise to stay attentive to trail markers, as the wider Greenbelt system can sometimes be tricky to navigate near roads. Check for any specific park entry requirements or hours before heading out.

This particular loop is a fantastic way to experience a segment of the larger 32-mile Long Island Greenbelt Trail, which holds the distinction of being a National Recreation Trail. It provides a unique opportunity to see a cross-section of Long Island's landscapes, from diverse ecosystems along river courses to glimpses of pine plains. The trail's connectivity to various state parks, like Connetquot River State Park Preserve, highlights its importance in preserving and showcasing the island's natural heritage.

The Blue Trail Loop at Connetquot River State Park Preserve offers a delightful immersion into a peaceful, wooded landscape. You'll find yourself wandering through serene forest paths, with the occasional clearing providing a sense of openness. The trail's gentle nature, with its minimal undergrowth in many sections, allows for pleasant views through the trees, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere for your hike.

Planning your visit to this 8.3-mile (13.3 km) moderate loop is straightforward. With only 55 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain, it's a comfortable 3 hours and 20 minutes hike suitable for most fitness levels. It's always a good idea to check the preserve's website for current operating hours and any specific parking information, especially if you plan to visit during peak times.

This Blue Trail Loop is part of a larger network of trails, often connecting to other colored loops, which is a common feature of many

The Long Island Greenbelt and Heckscher State Park Loop offers a delightful blend of coastal and woodland scenery, making it one of the more popular routes for a varied day out. You'll wander through dense pine forests, traverse sandy shoreline paths with views of the Great South Bay, and cross grassy areas. The trail provides a true cross-section of Long Island's natural beauty, with opportunities to spot wildlife like bald eagles and deer.

This moderate 9.5-mile (15.3 km) hike, with a gentle 52 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes to complete. While generally flat, be prepared for some moderate inclines and uneven sections with rocks and roots. The trail is marked with white blazes in wooded areas, but navigation can be challenging where it crosses roads, so having the route downloaded is a good idea.

As part of the extensive 32-mile Long Island Greenbelt Trail, this loop connects Heckscher State Park with other significant natural areas. A unique feature is its passage under major roadways via tunnels, adding an interesting element to your journey. This trail is an excellent choice if you're seeking a diverse hiking experience without extreme difficulty, showcasing the best of Suffolk County's landscapes.