When you think of New York, the first things that usually come to mind are skyscrapers and sprawling city streets, but New York is also home to some of the most incredible natural beauty this country has to offer.

From stunning mountain ranges to lush forests and breathtaking waterfalls, the Empire State has wilderness adventures for hikers of all levels. Lace up your hiking boots, embrace the great outdoors, and get some adventure in your system.

Here are the five best hiking trails near NYC for a little nature therapy in the New York mountains:

Breakneck Ridge Trail, Hudson Highlands State Park

Located just an hour north of Manhattan, Breakneck Ridge Trail is a thrilling hike near NYC that offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and the surrounding landscapes.

This challenging trail will test your endurance as you traverse the steep ascents and rocky scrambles. But the stunning views from the mountaintop make the hard work of this outdoor adventure worth every step of the journey. Be prepared for a one-of-a-kind hiking experience, and bring water & snacks to fuel your journey.

Another Summit hosts weekly Breakneck Hikes (weather permitting) every Wednesday for a short but challenging, fast-paced hike to the flagpole on Breakneck Ridge. It’s the perfect after-work hike and our #BreakneckWednesdays crew will be happy for you join!

Kaaterskill Falls, Catskill Mountains

Tucked away in the beautiful Catskill Mountains, Kaaterskill Falls is a mesmerizing slice of nature that showcases all of the beauty that New York mountains have to offer. This two-tiered waterfall plunges a staggering 260 feet, making it one of the tallest cascades in the Empire State.

The trail to the falls winds through a lush forest that provides shade and tranquility for hiking on hot summer days. Remember to exercise caution when hiking and stay on designated paths for safety.

Overlook Mountain Trail, Catskill Mountains

Rising approximately 3,140 feet above sea level, Overlook Mountain offers a captivating hike with a dazzling reward at the summit. This hiking trail near Woodstock takes you through a dense forest and leads you to the ruins of an old hotel and a fire tower.

When you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Catskills and the Hudson Valley. Hikers should be aware that this wilderness adventure is moderately challenging and prepare accordingly with plenty of water & sturdy hiking gear.

Another Summit hosts hikes to Overlook Mountain — keep an eye on our upcoming adventures to join the next one.

Indian Head and Rainbow Falls Trail, Adirondack Mountains

If you’re looking for a picturesque hike in the Adirondack Mountains, the Indian Head and Rainbow Falls trail is a great place to hike in New York (just 5 hours from NYC). This moderate New York hike snakes through lush greenery and provides hikers with incredible views of the Ausable Lakes and surrounding peaks.

The trail ends at Indian Head, a rock ledge that offers yet another breathtaking view of the Ausable Lakes and the High Peaks region, where you can relax, soak up the scenery, and enjoy some much-needed wilderness therapy.

Bear Mountain Loop, Bear Mountain State Park

Located on the western side of the Hudson River, Bear Mountain State Park is a popular destination for many hikers and nature lovers. The Bear Mountain Loop, one of the best places to hike near NYC, offers a diverse range of terrains, including rocky ascents, wooded areas, and stunning viewpoints.

Hikers who make it to the summit will be treated to panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley. The park also offers various recreational activities for those who are interested in more than hiking, including a zoo, picnic areas, and a swimming pool.

Outdoor adventure activities for veterans and first responders

Another Summit is an outdoor adventure program created by not-for-profit organization Guardian Revival to enrich the lives of veterans and first responders (our guardians) at no cost to them.

We welcome all guardians (active & retired): Veterans, Active Military, Reserve, National Guard, Law Enforcement, Fire & Rescue, EMS, Dispatchers, Corrections, and Federal Agents.

Another Summit organizes and leads structured outdoor activities in the Hudson Valley Region of New York. These experiences range from beginner to advanced difficulty levels and are led by trained outdoor leaders.

Whether you’re looking to go on an easy hike to enjoy some fresh air, aiming to push your limits on tougher trails, or hop in a canoe for some paddling, Another Summit has an experience for every guardian, regardless of skill level or age.