The best walks and hikes around Fort Salonga

Embark on an easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) hike along the Long Island Greenbelt Trail Loop via Old Dock Rd, a route that takes about 40 minutes to complete. You will experience diverse terrain, moving from paved sections to sandy bluffs. The trail offers coastal scenery blended with deciduous forests, creating a varied natural experience. As you hike, you will gain a gentle 90 feet (28 metres) in elevation. Keep an eye out for the Kings Park Bluff, which provides spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Nissequogue River and Smithtown Bay, including a clear view of Sunken Meadow Creek. This short outing is perfect for a quick nature escape.

Accessing the trailhead for this hike is straightforward, as it begins directly from Old Dock Road. If you plan to arrive by public transport, the trailhead is conveniently situated within two blocks of the Kings Park Long Island Railroad station. For those driving, parking is readily available in a church parking lot at the intersection of Church Street and Old Dock Road. This makes planning your visit simple, whether you prefer to drive or use public transit.

This loop offers a good sense of the broader Long Island Greenbelt Trail system, showcasing a mix of coastal views and deciduous woodlands. You will find yourself exploring sections that highlight the natural beauty of the area. The route provides unique perspectives of Sunken Meadow Creek and the surrounding bay, making it a notable option for experiencing the local landscape.

Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Makamah Loop Trail, a 2.4-mile (3.8 km) route that winds through the diverse landscapes of the Makamah Nature Preserve. You'll experience a gentle elevation gain of 133 feet (41 metres), making it a perfect choice for a leisurely outing that typically takes about 1 hour to complete. As you hike, the trail transitions between peaceful woodlands and serene marshland, offering a varied natural experience. The path itself is often undulating and can feature sections of singletrack with exposed roots and small rocks, so wear appropriate footwear. Look out for glimpses of the adjacent Jerome A. Ambro Memorial Wetlands Preserve through breaks in the tall grass, adding to the scenic charm.

Planning your visit to the Makamah Loop Trail is straightforward, as the route is well-marked with clear and regular trail blazing, ensuring easy navigation. Parking is generally available, making access convenient for most visitors. If you plan to bring your canine companion, dogs are welcome on the trail, but please ensure they remain on a leash at all times. This trail offers a quiet hiking experience, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

The Makamah Nature Preserve is a haven for local wildlife, particularly for birdwatching enthusiasts, with many species making their home in these woods and wetlands. The varied ecosystem, from dense woodlands to open marshland, provides a rich habitat and a dynamic environment to explore. This trail stands out as a great option for a quick nature fix, allowing you to immerse yourself in a tranquil setting without committing to a long or strenuous journey.

Hike the easy 3.5-mile Huntington Greenway Trail in Veterans Park, featuring wooded paths, gentle hills, and views of local scenery.

Hike the Greenbelt Trail from Sunken Meadow to Smithtown Landing for 5.7 miles of varied terrain, river views, and challenging hills.