If you love hiking, the eastern end of Long Island has some great hiking spots. Some of the best hiking spots are at Jones Beach, one of New York’s most popular beaches. These hiking spots can be reached via the Long Island Expressway, and it’s best to drive during midday on weekdays.
Acadia National Park
If you want to hike in Acadia National Park, you can choose between a number of trails. The ACADIA CLASSIC trail is a popular hike, and offers a family-friendly experience. However, you should consider the terrain before starting your trek, as this trail contains sections of exposed cliffs and mud.
One of the most scenic hiking trails in Acadia is the Jordan Pond Trail, which is easy to hike. The trail includes rocky sections and planked boardwalks. You can also combine this trail with the South Bubble for a 1.5-mile trek that offers panoramic views of the coastline. If you don’t feel like hiking up steep hills, you can also choose to take an easier trail, such as the Cadillac Cliff Trail, which involves a series of rungs and ladders.
Quechee Gorge Trail
The Quechee Gorge is a natural wonder of New England. It is situated on the border of Vermont and New Hampshire, and is known for its dramatic gorge and stunning views. You can walk or drive the 2.7-mile trail to enjoy its scenic views. The trail is easy to navigate, and you can cross over the gorge via a bridge.
Although this hike isn’t difficult, you will have the best views from the bridge. You’ll find plenty of scenic stops along the way. However, the trail may be more crowded during midday hours. If you’d like to enjoy the sunrise or sunset, try hiking the trail in the early morning.
Falls of Hills Creek
The Falls of Hills Creek is located in eastern West Virginia. It is a gorgeous place to hike, and in the spring, you can enjoy over 40 species of wildflowers. The falls are also an excellent location for taking pictures. The area is also home to the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center, which has exhibits, regularly scheduled events, and a nature trail.
One of the highlights of Falls of Hills Creek is the fact that it’s handicap-accessible and has three waterfalls. The first two are around 25 feet high, and the third is 63 feet high. Because the waterfalls are so high, there are a few things you should keep in mind when visiting. First of all, don’t walk behind or take showers underneath the waterfalls.
Inks Lake State Park
If you love the outdoors, you’ll love exploring Inks Lake State Park in Texas. This state park sits beside Inks Lake on the Colorado River and has beautiful scenery. The landscape features gneiss rock and hills covered in trees and prickly pear cacti.
This park offers nine miles of hiking trails. They meander through forests and past rocky hills. Hiking at Inks Lake State Park is best during the off season when trails are less crowded and temperatures are more pleasant.
Taconic Mountains
There are many scenic hiking trails in the Taconic Mountains, located in New England and eastern New York. They are a great way to get some exercise, take in the local scenery, and appreciate God’s creation. Most hikes last about six hours round trip. Some are shorter, and you can even break them up into shorter segments.
Ramble State Park is a new addition to the list of Taconic Mountains hiking spots. This 204-acre state park includes hiking trails, waterfalls, and gardens. It is located in Hubbardton, Vermont, and was recently donated to the state by Carson “Kit” Davidson.
Van Cortlandt Park
If you enjoy hiking and exploring nature, you’ll love the Van Cortlandt Park hiking spots. It’s one of the largest parks in the city and features over 1,146 acres of land. Many of the park’s trails take you through different ecosystems. Some of these areas are designated Forever Wild, ensuring the preservation of the park’s fragile ecosystems. The Cass Gallagher Nature Trail, for example, is a moderate trail that meanders through the Northwest Woods.
The Van Cortlandt Park hiking spots offer miles of hiking trails and quiet forests. The park’s trails are accessible via a staircase to the right of the entrance, and include a boardwalk through a swamp. Dogs are welcome on leash, and littering is discouraged.
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