The Top 7 Must-Visit Hiking Trails In New York State

NEW YORK STATE — With warmer days around the corner, New Yorkers will soon be leaving their winter coats behind for much-needed time in the outdoors.

According to the New York State Parks and Recreation, the state holds thousands of trails for hikers to unplug, break a sweat, and experience nature.

All-Trails, a fitness and travel website, has compiled a list of New York state's top hiking trails.

Each trail is voted and reviewed by All-Trail users, using a ranking system of five stars.

Here's seven of their highest ranked routes.

7. Indian, Finger Lakes, and George Trail Loop

Where: Watkins Glen State Park

Distance: 2.6 Miles

Level: Moderate

Ranking: 4.6

With 2,301 reviews, this kid-friendly trail is ranked 4.5 stars. Located in the middle of New York's Finger Lake region you'll experience stunning views of gorges and scenic waterfalls.

6. Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail

Where: Lake Placid

Distance: 16.7 Miles

Level: Hard

Ranking: 4.6

This trail has a ranking of 4.6 with 2,005 reviews. It's considered a challenging route for more experienced hikers, and takes about 8 hours to complete. Reviewers say that while the journey is more difficult than average, the "incredible" views at the summit are worth the hype.

5. Popolopen Torne Loop

Where: Bear Mountain State Park

Distance: 5.2 Miles

Level: Moderate

Ranking: 4.5

With rock scrambles and slight elevations, this 4.5 ranked trail is perfect for the moderate hiker who's looking for a bit of a challenge.

One reviewer writes: "If you’re a first timer who isn't conditioned for any fitness you will have a hard time for sure. But if you can power up the steep inclines you will feel so rewarded by the beautiful view up top."

4. Overlook Mountain Trail

Where: Overlook Mountain Wild Forest

Distance: 4.6 Miles

Level: Moderate

Ranking: 4.4

With 3,335 reviews and a 4.5 score, this trail is great for those who'd like to experience the highlights of a hike in an efficient time. The route is mostly gravel and has a steady incline. Located in the Woodstock area of New York, you'll see the Overlook Mountain House ruins and the mountain fire tower, which hosts views of the Catskills and even the Hudson Valley.

3. Gertrude's Nose and Millbrook Mountain Loop

Where: Minnewaska State Park

Distance: 6.7 Miles

Level: Moderate

Ranking: 4.7

This trail near Kerhonkson, New York is great for a moderate hiker who's up for a bit of a challenge.

This highly ranked route holds a score of 4.7 stars from 4,166 reviews. Its description states that it "travels through dense wooded areas to beautiful views while trekking along various cliff edges and rock formations."

2. Cascade Mountain and Porter Mountain via Cascade Mountain Trail

Where: Lake Placid

Distance: 5.6 Miles

Level: Hard

Ranking: 4.6

This hike rated 4.6 by 4,333 reviewers is defined as challenging but has "marvelous" views of Mount Marcy.

1. Bear Mountain Loop Trail

Where: Bear Mountain State Park

Distance: 3.8 Miles

Level: Moderate

Ranking: 4.5

The Bear Mountain Loop Trail is the ultimate option for someone who's looking for all the highlights of a hike. Only 3.8 miles, the trail begins with a "nice, gentle" hike uphill, followed by a rock scramble to the summit. Up top, enjoy breathtaking views of Hudson River Valley and Manhattan. The scenery of the Hudson River only continue as you descend.

To learn more about these hiking trails, click here.