Best Backpacking & Hiking Trails in Upstate New York
Best Backpacking and Hiking Trails in Upstate New York
My childhood was spoiled with amazing hikes and camping adventures, my love for New York's diverse wildlife has only grown. Upstate New York is a hiker's paradise, offering a diverse range of trails that cater to all skill levels. From the rugged peaks of the Adirondacks to the serene beauty of the Finger Lakes, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the best backpacking and hiking trails in Upstate New York that you won't want to miss.
1. Mount Marcy
Location: Adirondack High Peaks, Keene, NY
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 14.8 miles round-trip
Mount Marcy is the highest peak in New York State, standing at 5,344 feet. The hike to the summit is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning views of the surrounding Adirondack High Peaks. The trail is well-marked and features a mix of forested paths, rocky terrain, and alpine meadows
2. Cascade Mountain
Location: Adirondack High Peaks, Lake Placid, NY
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.8 miles round-trip
Cascade Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in the Adirondacks, known for its relatively short distance and breathtaking views. The trail is steep in sections but manageable for most hikers. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys
3. Letchworth State Park
Location: Castile, NY
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Length: Varies (66 miles of trails)
Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park features stunning gorges, waterfalls, and lush forests. The park offers a variety of trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The Gorge Trail is a must-do, offering spectacular views of the Genesee River and its waterfalls
Location: Finger Lakes Region, NY
Difficulty: Varies
Length: 580 miles
The Finger Lakes Trail stretches across the southern part of New York State, offering a diverse range of landscapes, from rolling hills to dense forests. The trail is divided into sections, making it easy to plan day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips. Highlights include the Watkins Glen State Park and the gorges of the Finger Lakes
5. Catskill Mountains
Location: Catskill Park, NY
Difficulty: Varies
Length: Varies
The Catskill Mountains offer a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to strenuous climbs. Popular hikes include the Devil's Path, known for its challenging terrain and stunning views, and the Escarpment Trail, which offers panoramic vistas of the Hudson Valley and beyond. The Catskills are also home to several 3,500-foot peaks, perfect for peak-bagging enthusiasts
6. Green Lakes State Park
Location: Fayetteville, NY
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Length: 15 miles of trails
Green Lakes State Park is known for its two beautiful glacial lakes, Round Lake and Green Lake. The park offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and along the lake shores. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all skill levels
7. Taughannock Falls State Park
Location: Trumansburg, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 3 miles round-trip
Taughannock Falls State Park features one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, with a drop of 215 feet. The Gorge Trail is an easy hike that takes you to the base of the falls, offering stunning views along the way. The park also has several other trails that explore the surrounding area
These are just a few of the incredible hiking and backpacking trails you can explore in Upstate New York. Whether you're looking for a challenging climb or a leisurely walk, you'll find plenty of options to suit your preferences. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural beauty of these areas.
Happy hiking!