Finding new dog hikes NYC can seem like a challenge if you live in the metropolitan area. However, there are endless dog-friendly parks and trails in and around the city that you might have not discovered yet.
Incorporating a hiking or walking routine (even when traveling) can be incredibly beneficial for both you and your furry friend. You get plenty of exercise, and fresh air, and spend quality time together. Also, it’s a great way to escape from the hustle of city life for a moment and clear your mind while being in contact with nature.
So, if you and your pup are ready for your next adventure, check out these 10 dog-friendly hiking trails.
Best 10 Dog Hikes NYC
Before we jump into this list of best dog hikes NYC, keep in mind that each park has its own regulations and rules. Every dog owner must be respectful of them, as well as of the environment, and other hikers.
And always be prepared for your hike! Make sure you have everything you and your dog need. If you’re looking for amazing and durable hiking leggings, I highly recommend these by Kuhl.com!
1. Saratoga Spa State Park
Location: 19 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Springs, NY.
This popular dog-friendly state park in Saratoga Springs has various recreational activities and hiking options to enjoy with your dog. The park offers more than 7 miles of trails, with beautiful vegetation, wooden areas, and water bodies that provide a pleasant natural environment for hikers.
In addition, the park has a picnic area, playgrounds, pools, golf courses, and many other entertainment options for the whole family.
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – A maximum of two pets is allowed and they must be on a leash – not longer than 6 feet – at all times.
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Opening Times & Fees – Opening times are from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and you can get unlimited access to most facilities in the park for an admission fee of $80.
2. Inwood Hill Park
Location: Dyckman St, Manhattan, NY.
Inwood Hill Park in northern Manhattan is a one-of-a-kind place to hike where you can feel a sense of being in a remote wilderness without leaving the city.
Keep in mind that the park is relatively compact and dog-friendly trails vary from half a mile to about a mile of distance. So it might not be your first option if you’re looking for more challenging and extensive dog hikes NYC. However, this natural wonder is worth it for those seeking to disconnect and be in contact with nature –stunning views guaranteed!
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – Dogs must be on a leash – no more than 6 feet long – at all times, except in the following designated off-leash areas:
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The dog run
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Dyckman Fields.
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Opening Times & Fees – The park opens from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. and it’s free to enter.
Note: the designated off-leash times are from 5 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. and from 9:00 p.m. until the park closes at 1 a.m.
3. Gedney Park
Location: 155 Millwood Rd, Chappaqua, NY.
If you don’t mind going on a day trip, Gedney Park is a beautiful hiking spot located in Chappaqua, in Westchester County, New York. As you walk along the trails, you encounter small streams, stonewalls, and signs with information about the woods and wildlife. Every trail varies in length and difficulty, but each one is sure to provide a peaceful and immersive environment for nature lovers.
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – Dogs are welcome to venture into nature with you at any time of the day, as long as they are on a leash. If you go in the morning before 10 a.m., your pup can freely explore the trails off-leash and even enjoy a good swim in the lake!
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Opening Times & Fees – The park is open every day from 7:30?a.m. to 7:30?p.m. and it’s free to enter.
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4. Forest Park
Location: Myrtle Avenue, Union Tpke, Park Ln S, Queens, NY.
Forest Park is a great option in Queens if you can’t get too far from the city. It’s also a very spacious place for dog hikes in NYC, with the Blue Trail (3 miles), or the Red Trail (1.5 miles) being the longest ones. There are also much shorter trails under 1 mile with a variety of forests, ecosystems, nature reserves, lakes, and streams.
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – Dogs must be on a leash –no more than 6 feet long– at all times, except in the Dog Run and a designated off-leash area, especially for small and elderly dogs to have a safe space.
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Opening Times & Fees – The park operates every day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and is free for everyone to enter.
5. Prospect Park
Location: 450 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY.
This is a favorite local hiking spot for those who live in the heart of Brooklyn and don’t have a car, you can easily get to Prospect Park by walking. Apart from its stunning views of woodlands, meadows, and a giant lake, the park offers quite extensive lanes, including a 3.36-mile trail that’s perfect for professional dog walkers or if you have an active dog.
After a great hike, pets can cool off at the dog-friendly lake, an off-leash bathing area where your pup can have a ton of fun with other canine buddies.
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – Dogs must be leashed at all times, except for designated off-leash areas: Long Meadow (except ballfields), Nethermead, and Peninsula Meadow (except woodlands).
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Off-leash hours run from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. These also apply to the dog beach.
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Opening Times & Fees – Prospect Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. and it’s a free public park.
6. Shore Parkway Greenway Trail
Location: from 84th street in Queens to 68th street Brooklyn.
The Shore Parkway Greenway Trail is a 13-mile paved pathway on Brooklyn’s southern border. Not only is it a great spot for long hikes, but it will give you the best views of the skyline and Verrazano Bridge as you walk along the waterfront.
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – Dogs are allowed to walk along the trail as long as they’re leashed.
7. Bear Mountain State Park
Location: Route 9W North, Bear Mountain, NY.
Bear Mountain State Park offers more challenging dog hikes in NYC situated in the Hudson Highlands. You’ll find over 50 trails of more than 235 miles, with a wide range of elevation and difficulty. Whichever path you choose, the panoramic view of the Hudson River and the mountains won’t disappoint!
In addition, you can use the park’s amenities, including a picnic area, lodge renting, biking trails, fishing access, and a swimming pool.
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – Dogs must be on a leash not longer than 6 feet and are not allowed in the following areas:
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Buildings
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Picnic areas
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Bathing areas
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Trailside Museum and Wildlife Center
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Opening Times & Fees – The park is open all year round from dawn to dusk. Check out the website for more detailed information about operation hours.
For admission, you can pay a $10 fee per vehicle, but you’ll have additional fees for additional amenities. Another option is an Empire Pass card of $80 to enjoy all-season unlimited access to most facilities in the park.
8. Walkway Over the Hudson
Location: 1 Parker Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY.
The Walkway Over the Hudson connects the cities of Poughkeepsie and Highland in the New York state. Since it’s primarily a pedestrian bridge, it might be more suitable for a stroll or short day hike. This is perfect for when you just want to disconnect and take some fresh air with your canine companion. Not to mention that the spectacular views of the Hudson River can’t be found anywhere else!
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – The walkway is a dog-friendly hike, but dogs must be leashed at all times.
9. Storm King State Park
Location: Mountain Rd, Cornwall-On-Hudson, NY.
You might want to check out Storm King if you’re into more challenging hikes. The park has trails at 1,385 feet above sea level with breathtaking views of the mountains and the Hudson River. Popular trails within the park like the Storm King and Butter Hill, span 2.5 miles and provide access to different elevated viewpoints.
Note: this kind of hike might be more suitable for large/medium dogs since the trails are rather steep.
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – Dogs must be on a leash –no more than 6 feet long– at all times.
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Opening Times & Fees – The park is accessible 24 hours and has a free parking lot.
10. Sands Point Preserve
Location: 127 Middle Neck Rd, Sands Point, NY.
This preserve located on the North Shore of Long Island is a one-of-a-kind place for dog hikes in NYC and is about a 45-minute drive. There are several trails and cobblestone walkways overlooking the beautiful castle and rose garden. Additionally, your pup can freely socialize with other New York City dogs, which includes a special area for small dogs and another one for dogs of all sizes.
Fun fact: Sands Point was the inspiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby.”
Additional Information
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Pet Policy – Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
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Opening Times & Fees – There’s a $15 fee per vehicle and walk-in admission is $4 per person. Opening hours vary depending on the day and season, check them out here.
Last Thoughts On Dog Hikes NYC
Enjoying a good hike with your furry friend not only helps improve your physical and mental health but also creates memories that strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
Are you curious to try any of these dog-friendly hikes? Let me know!
XO,
Anna
Anna is a traveler, blogger, and entrepreneur who can’t keep herself still. She’s always on the move, whether working hard on a new passion project or exploring a new city as a part-time digital nomad. Dare to keep up? Check out The Tatted Nomad for everything digital nomad, social media marketing, mental health, and travel (and to see her latest addition, Novah, her service dog and travel companion). As a psychotherapist (to be) she also offers insights about your mental health related questions – anything you see that isn’t covered but you have questions about? Let her know!
