The best walks and hikes in Donald J. Trump State Park (French Hill Unit) (Closed)

Although the park is officially closed due to state budget cuts and is not actively maintained, it remains accessible for passive recreation like hiking. You will find a network of unmarked trails and old woods roads to explore.

No, the trails within the park are largely unmarked. It's a good idea to use a GPS device or a navigation app like komoot to keep track of your route. The main footpath runs north to south, but many smaller paths branch off from it.

Yes, there is a gravel parking lot and a kiosk at the entrance on Old Baldwin Road in Yorktown Heights. From there, you can directly access the trail system.

The landscape is varied, featuring a mix of dense woodlands, open meadows, and a large wetland area. The trails are mostly easy woods roads and footpaths with gentle elevation changes, making for a rustic and relatively quiet hiking experience.

Yes, the park has a rich history. It is named for the French soldiers who camped here during the Revolutionary War. You can also find scattered stone ruins of a Gilded Age estate, including what's left of a fountain, a tennis court, and stately entrance structures.

For a gentle and scenic walk, consider the Teatown Lake Reservation loop — Westchester County. This short, easy trail is located in a nearby nature preserve and is perfect for a relaxed outing.

Yes, you can create a loop of about three to four miles within the park itself by combining the main woods road with another path leading east. For a well-defined loop nearby, the Teatown Lake Boardwalk – Teatown Lake loop from Teatown Lake Reservation is an excellent option.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the sense of solitude and exploration offered by the undeveloped landscape, as well as the intrigue of discovering the scattered historical ruins throughout the woods.

No, there are no restroom facilities, running water, or trash cans within the park. Please be prepared to pack out everything you bring in with you.

The park's large wetland and forest are a haven for wildlife. It is part of the New York City Watershed Area, and visitors have reported sightings of various bird species, including bald eagles.

You can find over 15 hiking routes in and around the park on komoot. These range from easy walks to more moderate treks, offering a variety of options for exploring the wider Westchester County area.

Since the park is undeveloped and managed for passive use, responsible dog owners often walk their dogs on the trails. However, as there are no official rules posted, it's best to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of the natural environment and other visitors.