Easy hikes and walks around Town of Highlands
4.7
(283)
3,386
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191
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Town of Highlands are situated within the Nantahala National Forest, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor exploration. The region is characterized by its plateau elevation of over 4,000 feet, featuring numerous waterfalls, panoramic mountain views, and dense woodlands. This unique environment provides a cooler climate and rich biodiversity, making it suitable for various easy hiking experiences.
Best easy hiking trails around Town of Highlands
- The most popular easy hiking route is Butter Hill and Storm King Mountain Loop, a 2.3 miles (3.8 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 9 minutes to complete, offering varied terrain and scenic views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Popolopen Gorge and Timp-Torne Loop, an easy 4.4 miles (7.1 km) path. This route features gorge views and forested sections, typically completed in about 1 hour 58 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Major Welch Trail, a 2.1 miles (3.4 km) trail leading through forested areas, often completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes.
- Hiking around Town of Highlands is defined by cascading waterfalls, panoramic mountain vistas, and lush forest paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 65 easy hiking trails available.
- The routes in Town of Highlands are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 280 reviews. Nearly 4,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Town of Highlands's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5
hikers
3.42km
01:06
20m
340m
This easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hiking route along the Major Welch Trail offers a delightful and accessible experience, perfect for a relaxed outing. With only 49 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain, you can expect a gentle walk that takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes, primarily following a pleasant, flat, paved section alongside Hessian Lake. The trail provides serene views of the lake and its natural surroundings, making it a tranquil escape.
Located in Bear Mountain State Park, the Major Welch Trail is a popular day-hiking destination, especially given its proximity to New York City. To ensure a smooth visit, plan to arrive early, particularly on weekends, as parking lots can fill up quickly. While this specific route is easy, it's always wise to bring water, and checking the state park's website for any seasonal updates or advisories is recommended.
Bear Mountain State Park is renowned for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This particular section of the Major Welch Trail offers a taste of the park's charm without the strenuous effort associated with its more challenging, rock-scrambling sections. It's an excellent choice for families or anyone seeking a peaceful, low-impact walk amidst the scenic Hudson Highlands.
1
hikers
2.68km
00:51
90m
110m
Embark on an easy hike along the Torrey Memorial via Long Path, a 1.7-mile (2.7 km) route that offers a quick escape into nature. You will gain 309 feet (94 metres) in elevation, making for a pleasant 50-minute journey through oak forests with an open understory. The trail features varied terrain, including some rocky sections and gentle ascents, leading you to the Raymond H. Torrey Memorial for expansive 360-degree panoramic views.
When planning your visit, be aware that while this specific route is easy, other sections of the Long Path in Harriman State Park can be more rugged with steeper grades. Parking is generally available at trailheads that provide access to the Long Path. If there have been heavy rains, crossing Deep Hollow Brook might present a challenge, so check conditions beforehand.
This route is a segment of the much longer Long Path, a significant trail within Harriman State Park. The Raymond H. Torrey Memorial, located on Long Mountain, is a key landmark, honoring a conservationist and offering clear views of features like Bear Mountain and Turkey Hill Lake below. It is a great way to experience a piece of this historic trail system.
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1
hikers
2.55km
00:41
20m
60m
Embark on the Glenclyffe Loop Trail for an easy hike through diverse landscapes. This 1.6-mile (2.6 km) route offers a quick escape, taking about 41 minutes to complete with a gentle elevation gain of 73 feet (22 metres). You will wander through open fields, alongside streams, and over gentle rocky slopes. A unique feature of the trail is a section where you walk through a thick bamboo forest, creating an unexpected, almost Asian-like atmosphere. As you progress, you will also pass multiple ponds and dams, and catch scenic views of the Hudson River, including glimpses of West Point and Storm King Mountain.
The Glenclyffe Loop Trail is very accessible, making it a convenient option for a spontaneous outing. If you are traveling by public transport, you can easily reach the trailhead via Metro-North Rail from the Garrison station. For those driving, parking is generally available near the starting point. This beginner-friendly path is a great choice if you are looking for a quick and enjoyable outdoor experience without needing extensive planning.
This trail stands out for its varied scenery packed into a short distance within the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve. Beyond the bamboo forest, the route offers a blend of natural features, from open fields to rocky sections. It provides a chance to experience the region's beauty, including views of iconic landmarks like West Point and Storm King Mountain, all within a manageable timeframe.
1
hikers
5.36km
01:37
170m
190m
Explore the easy 3.3-mile Old Mineral Springs Trail in Black Rock Forest, featuring waterfalls, rocky paths, and scenic views.
780m
00:18
90m
0m
Hike the easy 0.5-mile Butter Hill Trail in Storm King State Park for panoramic 360-degree views of the Hudson River Valley.
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Tips from the Community
Breakfast with a bear?
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Bear Mountain, located in the Hudson Highlands of southeastern New York, is one of the most notable landmarks on the Appalachian Trail in the state. The AT crosses directly over the summit, which stands at 1,305 feet, which is not especially high, but it is a historically and symbolically significant summit; it’s home to the oldest continuously maintained section of the Appalachian Trail, built in 1923, and features wide stone steps and paved walkways constructed by trail crews and the Civilian Conservation Corps. For many hikers, Bear Mountain is also the site of the lowest elevation point on the AT, near the Hudson River just before the climb. From the top, you get sweeping views of the Hudson Valley, and the surrounding Bear Mountain State Park includes a lake, picnic areas, the Trailside Museum and Zoo (which the AT technically passes through), and access to nearby Perkins Memorial Tower. It’s a popular day hike, so don’t be surprised to share the trail with weekend crowds, especially in fall.
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Bear Mountain peaks at just under 1,300 feet in elevation over a 4.5-mile stretch of picturesque paved road. Although it may seem small in comparison to some of the world’s renowned climbs, it makes up for this with stunning views of the Hudson Highlands.
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The road makes a loop around the summit of Bear Mountain with the Perkins Memorial Tower at its center. From the top you get sweeping views south across the Hudson, Harriman State Park, and the route taken by the Appalachian Trail.
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Popular hiking destination not far from New York City with great views
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Nice small lake in Bear mountain state park. In the summer you can rent a paddle boat and fishing is allowed in season
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The unobstructed 360 views are worth the extra 70 feet up the tower when it's open
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around the Town of Highlands?
The Town of Highlands offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 60 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 200 hiking routes in the area, catering to various skill levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for families in the Town of Highlands?
Yes, many easy trails in the Town of Highlands are perfect for families. For instance, the short, gentle hike to Silver Run Falls is ideal, offering a beautiful waterfall and a swimming spot. The Glenclyffe Loop Trail is another accessible option, providing a pleasant walk through natural surroundings.
Which easy trails offer scenic viewpoints or panoramic vistas?
For stunning views, consider trails that lead to spots like Sunset Rock, which is a short walk from downtown Highlands and offers expansive views of the town and surrounding mountains, especially beautiful at sunset. While some mountain trails can be more challenging, many easy paths provide glimpses of the region's majestic landscapes. The Butter Hill and Storm King Mountain Loop also offers varied terrain and scenic views.
Can I find easy hiking trails with waterfalls in the Town of Highlands?
Absolutely, the Town of Highlands is known as a 'Waterfall Capital.' Many easy trails lead to beautiful cascades. Dry Falls is particularly unique, allowing you to walk behind the 75-foot waterfall without getting wet. Silver Run Falls is another easily accessible option with a gentle hike. While Glen Falls is a popular destination, its 2.4-mile round-trip trail is considered moderate, but still very rewarding for its three-part waterfall.
Are there any loop trails among the easy hikes in the Town of Highlands?
Yes, several easy loop trails are available. The Butter Hill and Storm King Mountain Loop is a popular 2.3-mile option. Another favorite is the Popolopen Gorge and Timp-Torne Loop, which is 4.4 miles and features gorge views and forested sections. The Glenclyffe Loop Trail also provides an easy circular route.
What is the best time of year for easy hiking in the Town of Highlands?
The Town of Highlands, situated at over 4,000 feet, enjoys a cooler climate, making it pleasant for hiking from spring through fall. Spring brings wildflowers, while autumn offers spectacular fall foliage. Even summer provides a comfortable escape from heat. Winter hiking is also possible, though some trails may be icy or require appropriate gear.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in the Town of Highlands?
The easy trails in the Town of Highlands are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from nearly 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the abundance of accessible waterfalls, and the panoramic mountain views. The unique biodiversity and cooler climate are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects.
Are there any easy trails that pass by lakes or other water bodies?
Yes, the area around Highlands features several beautiful lakes. The Cliffside Lake Recreation Area offers an easy half-mile interpretive loop trail around the lake, perfect for a gentle stroll and learning about local flora. While not directly on an easy hiking trail, Hessian Lake and Lake Tiorati are also notable water bodies in the broader region that can be explored.
Are there any educational or interpretive trails for easy walks?
Yes, the Highlands Botanical Garden and the Highlands Nature Center both offer interpretive nature trails. These trails provide an opportunity to learn about the region's vast plant diversity and local environment through exhibits and arboretum features, making for an engaging and easy walk.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in the Town of Highlands?
Easy hikes in the Town of Highlands typically feature well-maintained paths through lush forests, gentle inclines, and sometimes boardwalks or paved sections. You can expect varied terrain, from soft forest floors to rocky outcrops, but generally without steep or challenging ascents. The region's high plateau means many trails offer a comfortable walking experience.
Are there any short easy hikes for a quick outdoor experience?
For a quick and easy outdoor experience, the Major Welch Trail is a great option, typically completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes over 2.1 miles. The Glenclyffe Loop Trail is even shorter at 2.5 miles, taking around 40 minutes. Additionally, the walk to Sunset Rock is a very short and rewarding option for expansive views.
What are some natural features or landmarks I might encounter on easy trails?
Beyond waterfalls and mountain views, easy trails often lead through the dense woodlands of the Nantahala National Forest, showcasing unique biodiversity. You might encounter ancient rock formations, diverse plant life, and the serene sounds of mountain streams. The region's high elevation contributes to its distinct natural character.
Are there options for easy hikes that are less crowded?
While popular spots like Dry Falls can attract crowds, many of the 65 easy trails in the Town of Highlands offer a more secluded experience, especially during off-peak hours or on lesser-known routes. Exploring trails within the vast Nantahala National Forest often provides opportunities for peaceful solitude.
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