The Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Near NYC

Updated on 11/17/2023

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Hiking with your dog can be a year-round activity. It’s an escape from the heat of the summer or a way to take in fall foliage during crisp autumn days. We say there’s nothing quite like adventuring together in the fresh mountain air.

Luckily New York City and the tri-state area have endless trails to explore with your pup. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, check out these dog-friendly hiking trails near NYC.

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Cornish Estate Trail

On the edge of the charming town of Cold Spring, this 1.8 mile trail is an easy ascent along the Hudson River. A mostly paved trail that features estate ruins and various other structures such as a pool, greenhouse, and gazebo. If you and your pup are the exploring type, then this trail is pawfect for you! The Cornish Estate Trail is also accessible from the city by car or train. Find more trail details here.

Arden Point

A peaceful and wooded historic trail that follows the road used by Benedict Arnold, an American military general during the Revolutionary War. The dirt trail is mostly flat and highlights a small waterfall, a bridge over railroad tracks, and panoramic views of the Hudson River. There are also several swimming spots so you and your dog can take a dip to cool down. Don’t have a car? No problem! Furrtunately, this is a train-to-trail and the trailhead begins right off the Garrison stop parking lot. See more details about Ardent Point here.

Gedney Park

An enormous park on 126 acres that include marked wooded trails, a large pond, a playground, bathrooms on site, and even designated dog off-leash hours in the mornings! The trails include lovely stonewalls and small streams along with informational signs about the trees and wildlife in the surrounding area. There are gazebos around the pond, which lends itself as a great watering hole for dogs. If you have a water pawsitive dog, then is the trail for you! Learn more about visiting Gedney Park here.

Storm King State Park

If you and your dog don’t mind a good steep incline, then you will definitely want to check out this hike. At 1,385 feet above sea level, the trails at Storm King traverse some of the most spectacular views of the Hudson River and Catskills Mountains. Though they do present a bit of an uphill challenge, the panoramic views are stunning and well worth the trek. Important to note that the park does require that dogs be on leashes no more than 6 feet long. Discover all the trails at Storm King here.

With so amazing trails so close to the city, you and your best friend have endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. This summer, let the dog days be your adventure days!

Helpful Products To Take Along

Having fun and staying safe on a dog-friendly hike are two of your main priorities. You and your dog have no problem with the fun part, but it takes some planning to ensure your pup stays out of harm’s way, is well-hydrated, and is appropriately protected. Your dog should also be fit enough for the hike and know basic obedience skills. To help keep him on track, we’ve curated a list of dog hiking must-haves to bring along. (Your dog might even be able to carry some of them for you!)