The best walks and hikes in Graham Mountain State Forest
2
hikers
2
hikes
Looking for some popular walks and hikes in Graham Mountain State Forest? Then browse our collection of routes around this beautiful forest in Orange County below. We present you with many hiking and walking trails in Graham Mountain State Forest — all you’ve got to do is pick your favorite and get going.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
145km
41:54
3,470m
3,570m
The Shawangunk Ridge Trail offers a truly unique long-distance hiking experience, guiding you across a prominent quartz conglomerate ridge known for its dramatic cliffs and expansive views. You'll traverse diverse ecosystems, from dense woodlands and ancient hemlock forests to unique dwarf pine barrens, encountering rugged terrain with rocks, boulders, and roots. Look out for stunning panoramas from viewpoints like Sam's Point Lookout and the impressive Verkeederkill Falls.
Planning is crucial for this difficult 90.0-mile (144.8 km) route, which involves a significant 11389 feet (3471 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 41 hours and 54 minutes to complete. While you can tackle sections as day hikes, thru-hikers should research camping options along the trail. Access points are available from High Point State Park in New Jersey north to Rosendale, New York, making it adaptable for various trip lengths.
What makes the Shawangunk Ridge Trail truly stand out is its exceptional geology, featuring white quartzite conglomerate cliffs and unique formations like the Ice Caves. It serves as a challenging alternative for long-distance hikers, connecting with other major trails like the Appalachian Trail and New York's Long Path, and offering more natural terrain than many other regional routes.
10.1km
02:35
30m
30m
The Bashakill Trail offers a serene journey through the largest freshwater wetland in southeastern New York, a designated Bird Conservation Area. You'll traverse predominantly flat terrain, often following historic canal towpaths and old railroad beds, with expansive views of marshland and forested uplands. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and other diverse wildlife as you hike, but be ready for sections with exposed roots, rocks, and potential mud underfoot.
This moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) route, with a gentle 105 feet (32 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 34 minutes. While generally accessible year-round, spring and fall are prime for birdwatching. Parking is available at various trailheads within the Bashakill Wildlife Management Area; waterproof footwear is recommended, especially after rain.
What truly sets this trail apart is its incredible biodiversity and historical layers. Beyond the 200+ bird species, you might spot beaver, otter, and various reptiles. The path itself is built on remnants of the old Delaware and Hudson Canal and the New York, Ontario and Western Railway, adding a fascinating historical dimension to your outdoor adventure.
Sign up for free
22.5km
06:25
520m
520m
Hike the difficult 14.0 miles (22.5 km) Shawangunk Ridge Trail in High Point State Park, featuring ridge views and unique rock formations.
2
hikers
11.8km
03:08
120m
120m
Hike the moderate 7.3-mile Highland Lake Loop in Middletown Reservoir Trails, offering 391 feet of elevation gain and scenic views.
2
hikers
10.0km
02:42
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Verkeerder Kill Falls is the 180-foot (about 57 meters) waterfall you're referring to. It's the highest waterfall in the Shawangunk Mountains of New York State. Located in Sam's Point Preserve, it's only accessible via a hiking trail that leads to the top of the falls. https://www.nelnet.it.com
0
0
Amazing views and interesting change in the landscape along the spur leading to Sam's Point. It's definitely worth doing.
0
0
Shawangunk Ridge Trail is a 101-mile-long trail that begins in Port Jervis, NY and enters into NJ in Dryden Kuser Natural Area. This section of the trail is particularly beautiful as it runs through wonderfully wooded mountains. There are several viewpoints near the NY/NJ border that gives you great vistas on the valley.
0
0
Great viewpoint onto Matamoros. To access it, you need to leave the Shawangunk Ridge Trail for several yards.
0
0
The Bashakill Wildlife Management Area encompasses over 2,200 acres of diverse ecosystems. The trails on the property pass through forests, meadows, and wetlands, which all serve as host to a bunch of different plants and animals. As great as the trails are out here, they are often underutilized and not crowded at all.
0
0
The Bashakill Trail is one of a couple path in the Bashakill Wildlife Management Area. This one feels more primitive than the D&H Canal Towpath, which is the other popular trail on the property. The trail is pretty easy and is open to cyclists, hikers, and trail runners, so you'll likely see others out on the path. The path is actually a shared section of the Shawangunk Ridge Trail, which extends just over 70 miles in total. This makes it to where you can make your out-and-back hike as far or as short as you want.
0
0
Most popular routes in Graham Mountain State Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
