Notice: Weekday Deer Hunting in Harriman State Park to Begin on November 3
Here’s what hikers need to know before hitting the trails in Harriman this season.
Beginning November 3, 2025, certain sections of Harriman State Park will open to permitted, weekday-only deer hunting as part of a broader forest management initiative led by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation and the Palisades Interstate Park Commission.
The goal of this initiative is to address long-term ecological impacts caused by deer overpopulation, including a lack of tree regeneration, the loss of forest biodiversity, and the spread of invasive species like Japanese barberry and stiltgrass.
Hunting will take place in the northern section of Harriman State Park, covering approximately 19,000 acres across five designated zones. This includes parts of the park near Lake Tiorati, Arden Valley Road, and the Appalachian Trail and Long Path corridors.
Hunting will be by permit only and restricted to non-holiday weekdays through December 31, 2025. While hunting is not allowed on or across trails, hunters will be able to utilize park pathways to access designated hunting areas.
The Trail Conference encourages all outdoor enthusiasts to consult official maps, park signage, and Harriman’s website when planning weekday hikes in Harriman this fall.
>> For complete information on deer hunting in Harriman State Park in 2025, including detailed maps of the hunting zones and FAQs about the program, please refer to the NYS Parks resource page using the button below.
…
🟠 Hike Smart During Hunting Season!
Whether you’re visiting Harriman this fall—or anywhere with an active hunting season—it’s important to recreate safely and responsibly. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe and visible on the trail:
- Wear bright colors like orange or neon to increase your visibility.
- Keep your pets leashed and outfit them in bright gear too.
- Make some noise (while being respectful to fellow hikers, of course!) so that others know you’re nearby.
- Remain on marked trails and avoid entering unmarked areas.
- Hike during daylight hours and avoid hiking at dawn or dusk, when visibility is low and hunters are most active.
- Always check signage at trailheads and consult official park websites before heading out, so you’re aware of hunting zone boundaries and the latest park updates.