Best Places to Go Hiking in Rockland and Bergen Counties
Go on an amazing nature adventure with your family at these nearby hiking trails
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https://www.tenaflynaturecenter.org/: A dense, rugged forest, you won’t find smooth, narrow paths here. However, the Lost Brook Preserve is a fun way for families to explore and better understand the natural terrain. This includes rocks that cover trails, boulders, and foot bridges over streams. They also host tons of events throughout the year such as a scavenger hunt, maple sugaring, and more. 313 Hudson Avenue, Tenafly, NJ 07670.
ROCKLAND COUNTY
Bear Mountain State Park: A popular attraction, Bear Mountain State Park offers access to 52,000-acres, ranging from mild-to-moderate hikes. This includes gorgeous scenery, forested backdrops, and 235 miles of trails as well as 18 miles of the Appalachian trail. Additionally, families can enjoy access to a large field, shaded picnic areas, fishing access, a swimming pool, and even tie in a visit to the Trailside Museums and Zoo. You can also enjoy their on-site ice skating rink (during the winter) or a ride – or two – around their acclaimed Merry-Go-Round. Palisades Parkway or Route 9W North, Bear Mountain, NY 10911.
Tallman Mountain State Park: Overlooking the Hudson and Piermont Marsh, Tallman Mountain State Park offers access to 700-acres and two trails. This includes a wooded hike ranging from 2.5 to 5 miles, depending on what loop you take. The park also offers access to a swimming pool, track, tennis courts, field, and picnic areas. Route 9W, Sparkill, NY 1097.
Sterling Forest State Park: Offering access to the woodlands, Sterling Forest State Park is an explorers’ paradise with over 22 acres of natural refuge and a deep-forested habitat for many animals such as the black bear, hawks, and many birds. The park also offers access to hunting and fishing and a visitor center where you and your family can learn more about the park’s local environment. 116 Old Forge Road Tuxedo Park, NY 10987.
Hook Mountain State Park: A part of the Palisades Interstate Park system, Hook Mountain offers 7.5-miles of trails that follows along the Hudson River. An uphill hike, there are three connecting and circular loops to the Long Path that is known to be a little difficult. However, there are varying lengths with the longest being around 12 miles. Enjoy views of NYC, and of course the river. Nyack Beach State Park, 698 North Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960.
Buttermilk Falls County Park: Offering access to 75 acres of land, Buttermilk Falls County Park is a gorgeous hike that is a part of the Palisades ridge. Trails lead to the stream and some incredible overlooks and waterfall views that’s fantastic for discovery and bird watching. 199 S Greenbush Road, Orangeburg, NY 10962.
Nyack-Haverstraw River Trails: A 5-mile dirt trail, this mild hike is a great way to get in a walk on paved terrain. Offering stunning views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, the trail also has benches and picnic tables. You can make a day out of it and also explore Nyack Beach State Park at the base of Hook Mountain. 698 North Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960.
Rockland Lake State Park: This park includes 256-acres, which features a mix of developed and undeveloped lands. Families can enjoy access to a forested wetland, a pool, tennis courts, picnic areas, golf courses, and trails. The park also includes an environmental education center that is operated during the summer. 299 Rockland Lake Road., Valley Cottage, NY 10989.
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