The best running trails around Bedford Hills

Bedford Hills offers a highly diverse landscape for runners. You'll find extensive trail networks across rolling countryside, featuring deep hollows, ridges, hemlock gorges, wetlands, and rivers. The terrain includes meadows, marshes, mixed hardwood forests, and laurel groves. Some routes also incorporate historical elements like old farm roads and stone walls, ensuring a varied running experience from relatively flat paths to challenging routes with steep sections, rocks, and roots.

Yes, while some routes are challenging, Bedford Hills offers options for various skill levels. For example, the Deer Hollow Trail loop from Armstrong Preserve is a moderate 6.2-mile route that provides scenic running options without extreme difficulty. The Teatown Lake Reservation also features nearly 15 miles of trails of easy to moderate difficulty, traversing diverse habitats.

For a more challenging experience, the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is an excellent choice. It offers over 35 miles of trails, including routes with steep sections, rocks, and roots. A notable difficult route is the Raven Rock Overlook – Fox Hill Trail loop from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, which explores the reservation's demanding terrain. The reservation is also home to the Leatherman Harriers, known for their challenging Leatherman's Loop 10K.

Absolutely. For longer runs, consider routes like the New Croton Dam – New Croton Dam loop from Stayback Hill Unit, which spans over 12 miles. Additionally, trails at Teatown Lake Reservation connect to the Briarcliff-Peekskill Trailway and the Croton Aqueduct Trail, providing options for extended runs.

Bedford Hills' routes offer many scenic points. You can enjoy views of the New Croton Reservoir with its picturesque cascading spillway, especially on routes like the New Croton Reservoir – New Croton Dam loop from Turkey Mountain. The Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features deep hollows, ridges reaching 800 feet high, hemlock gorges, wetlands, ponds, and two rivers. You might also encounter unique geological formations like a sandy hillside recessional moraine and glacial erratics. For specific attractions, consider visiting the Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir or the Pine Bridge Monument.

Yes, several areas are suitable for families. Local town parks like Bedford Hills Memorial Park offer well-maintained facilities. The Teatown Lake Reservation also has trails of easy to moderate difficulty that are great for families looking for a nature experience. Always check specific route details for elevation and terrain to ensure it matches your family's comfort level.

Many trails in the Bedford Hills area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park or preserve regulations before heading out. For instance, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation generally allows dogs on trails, often requiring them to be leashed. Teatown Lake Reservation also permits dogs on its trails. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them.

Bedford Hills offers beautiful running conditions throughout the year, with each season providing a unique experience. Spring brings lush greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, making it a particularly scenic time. Summer is great for early morning or late afternoon runs to avoid the heat, and winter can offer crisp, quiet runs, though some trails might be icy or muddy. Always check local weather conditions and trail reports.

Yes, many of the running routes in Bedford Hills are designed as loops, offering a continuous and varied experience without retracing your steps. Examples include the Deer Hollow Trail loop from Armstrong Preserve and the Raven Rock Overlook loop from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation. The extensive trail networks in areas like Ward Pound Ridge Reservation also allow for creating custom loop routes.

Most major preserves and parks in Bedford Hills, such as Ward Pound Ridge Reservation and Teatown Lake Reservation, offer designated parking areas for trail access. It's advisable to check the specific park's website or signage for any parking fees or regulations. For example, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation typically has an entrance fee for vehicles.

While many running routes in Bedford Hills are best accessed by car, some areas may be reachable via public transport, particularly those connecting to larger trail systems. For instance, Teatown Lake Reservation's trails connect to the Croton Aqueduct Trail, which can be accessed from various points. For detailed public transport information, it's recommended to check local transit schedules and park websites like yorktownny.gov or bedfordny.gov for specific park locations.

The Bedford Hills area offers a significant number of running routes. This guide alone features 15 distinct routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring a wide variety of choices for runners of all levels.