A mere hour North of New York City, we are fortunate to have stunningly beautiful hiking trails in Westchester County, where we can be surrounded by the beauty of nature. With our fast-paced lifes, it is so easy to not notice how lovely it is. But get out and walk for a mile or five and you’ll see foliage, birds and wildlife and breathe the pure, natural air. Remember to follow the hiker’s rule: leave only footprints and take only photographs.
Below is a list of five great hiking trails in Westchester County that we have found. They are all perfect for a leisurely stroll or a faster paced jog, perfect for all ages and physical shape.
Bronx River Pathway (walking) –
This is 807-acre park next to the Bronx River Parkway. It is 13.2 miles throughout Westchester and goes to the Kensico Dam in Valhalla. You’ll also find the pathway in Mount Vernon, Bronxville and Scarsdale as it makes its way through the county. It is a great choice for walkers who would like to see part of their hometown and how it connects with the rest of Westchester.
North County Trailway (walking) -
Choose this walking path if you want to take a walk or a bike ride with family and friends. It covers 22.1 mils through Westchester County, running right up to the border of Putnam County. It also connects to the Bronx River Pathway, so if you are planning for a longer hike, you can combine the two. It will take you through Briarcliff Manor and Yorktown Heights. On this walk you can see the beauty of Northern Westchester.
To see Southern Westchester, take the South County Trailway.
Briarcliff-Peekskill Trailway (hiking) –
This 12-mile hiking trail will take you through Northern Westchester. It is an unpaved trail, perfect for walkers and joggers. Bicycle riders are not permitted on this trail.
Cranberry Lake History Trail (hiking) -
The Cranberry Lake Preserve is 190- acre park run by the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation. The History Trail is a fun hike, as you’ll not only see dragonflies, birds and wildflowers but can view what is left of a 19th century farmhouse and a 20th century stone-mining operation. It is a peek into history in Westchester County.
1609 Old Orchard Street, North White Plains, NY 10604. Park is open from dawn to dusk.
Saxon Woods Park (hiking) –
There are 700 acres at Saxon Woods Park. Many know of the popular Saxon Woods Pool and the 18-hole golf course located here. The trails are active and enjoyed by many, including skiers who use them in the winter. Horseback riding is permitted on the trails. The trails run from the Hutchinson River Parkway to the Twin Lakes Park and then north to Maple Moor Golf Course. They also connect to the Leatherstocking Trail.
This trail system is known for being very scenic and offering you a wonderful view of Westchester County.
1800 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains 10605 Park is open from 8am to dusk, seven days a week.
With these five hiking trails in Westchester County, we hope you get out and enjoy the warm weather and fresh air!
"Walking is the best possible exercise. Habituate yourself to walk very far." -- Thomas Jefferson