There are many out there who think Westchester is not the hiking capital of New York State (they may be correct, but still…).While Westchester may not have as many trails as its surrounding counties in the Hudson Valley, it is packed with hikes aplenty. In addition to being a great way to get moving outdoors, these treks also offer stunning and serene views of the Hudson River and the many lakes, ponds, and streams that fill the county.
Blue Mountain Reservation
Peekskill
Blue Mountain Reservation is a great spot for hikers of varying experience. Many trails lead to one of two peaks, Mt. Spitzenberg and Blue Mountain, where you can find broad views of the Hudson River and the mountains and greenery that outline it.
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Teatown Lake Reservation
Ossining
Teatown features nearly 15 miles of trails that are open from dawn to dusk, 365 days of the year. A popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, the Westchester reservation boasts trails that range from easy to strenuous in difficulty. Teatown maintains a natural landscape to give visitors a glimpse into the immense biodiversity of the lower Hudson Valley. Hikers will find serene views of the many lakes on the reservation, including Teatown Lake.
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Related: 5 Top Hiking Trails for Breathtaking Views in Westchester
Croton Gorge Park
Cortlandt
Providing beautiful water views year-round, Croton Gorge Park is a hike you will not want to miss. The centerpiece of this location is the Croton Dam, which used to be a vital water supply for New York City. You can see the dam upon arrival, but following the hiking trail will lead you to bigger and better views. Croton Gorge Park is also a perfect place for families who want to get the kids into hiking, as one of the trails through the park leads right to a playground. Fair warning: this is one of the more popular hikes in the county and will get busy during peak times throughout the summer (weekends and holidays).
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Turkey Mountain Nature Preserve
Yorktown Heights
If you’re up for a little bit of a challenge with the promise of breathtaking water views on the other end, this is the hike for you. Turkey Mountain, while not the tallest mountain in the area, offers a vast look at Westchester and the Hudson Valley with a summit at 831 feet. When you reach the top, you’ll easily see the Croton Reservoir and, depending on cloud conditions, you might even be able to spot the New York City skyline.
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Westmoreland Sanctuary
Mt. Kisco
Westmoreland Sanctuary has 8.5 miles of interconnecting trails that are perfect for hikers of all ages. There are many ponds and lakes spread out across the sanctuary that will be an excellent reason for you to “leave the road; take the trails.”
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Croton Point Park
Croton-on-Hudson
Croton Point Park is a 508-acre peninsula with flat trails that will give you a relaxing way to enjoy views of the Hudson River. The park features two loops, one shorter than the other, allowing you to decide what kind of experience you want. Also available are kayak rentals and swimming at Croton Point Beach.
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