Falling Waters and Grand Loop Trails – Schooleys Mountain County Park – Photo: Daniel Chazin This 3.5-mile loop in Schooley’s Mountain County Park explores the park’s wilder, less-developed western side, far from the picnic areas and lodge. Starting from the main lot, the route descends past Lake George and into the rocky gorge of Electric
View of ruins on Kennedy Dells County Park Loop – Photo: Daniel Chazin This 2.3-mile loop in a quiet corner of Westchester County explores the scenic ravines and historic infrastructure surrounding Crum Creek, blending wooded paths with parkland edges and suburban glimpses. Starting from the main parking area, the hike begins on the white-blazed Bridle
Buttermilk Falls in Rockland County – Buttermilk Falls County Park – Photo: Daniel Chazin This 1.5-mile loop explores the scenic hillside above Buttermilk Falls in Rockland County, offering a short but rewarding climb to multiple panoramic viewpoints. The hike begins on the blue-blazed trail, ascending beside a wooded ravine to the base of the falls.
Van Cortlandt House Museum – Photo by Daniel Chazin This 3.5-mile urban loop through Van Cortlandt Park blends natural tranquility with rich historical landmarks and hidden greenways in the heart of the Bronx. Beginning at the 242nd Street subway station, the route passes the historic Van Cortlandt House Museum (built in 1748), then winds through
Along the All Persons Trail and Bear Mountain Summit Loop – Harriman-Bear Mountain State Parks This accessible hike on the summit of Bear Mountain includes the Bear Mountain All Persons Trail, inviting outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities to connect with nature and soak in spectacular views. The All Persons Trail is approximately 0.75 miles out
Duck Pond – Photo by Daniel Chazin This gentle 3.5-mile loop explores the rare sinkhole pond landscape of northwest New Jersey. Beginning on the yellow-blazed Bear Claw Trail, you’ll pass through second-growth forest and remnants of old farmland before crossing to the Limestone Trail, which skirts the shore of Duck Pond. The route connects to
Wawayanda Furnace – Photo by Daniel Chazin This diverse 7-mile loop in Wawayanda State Park connects multiple scenic trails and historic sites, traversing rhododendron tunnels, serene lakes, hardwood forests, and wetlands. Starting on Cherry Ridge Road, the hike visits Lake Lookout via the white-blazed Lookout Trail, then winds along the historic Laurel Pond Trail to
Narrow passage on the Catfish Loop Trail – Photo by Daniel Chazin The 4.6-mile Catfish Loop Trail explores the rugged, lesser-traveled southwest corner of Clarence Fahnestock State Park, offering a peaceful circuit through forested ridges, historic stone walls, laurel tunnels, and scattered viewpoints. Starting from Dennytown Road, the loop briefly follows the Appalachian Trail before
View of the New York City skyline from Cactus Ledge – Photo by Daniel Chazin This 3.8-mile loop in Ramapo Valley County Reservation offers a well-rounded experience of scenic overlooks, rocky ascents, quiet forests, and tranquil water features—all within one of Bergen County’s most popular parklands. Blazed in 2016 by Trail Conference volunteers, the Vista
Cranberry Lake Preserve – Photo: Jane Daniels The Cranberry Lake Preserve loop is a peaceful 3.5-mile loop that explores the varied terrain of Cranberry Lake Preserve, a 190-acre natural area tucked amid the suburban bustle of Westchester County. Despite its modest size, the preserve offers a rich and diverse hiking experience, from tranquil lakeside paths
