The 40 Most Scenic Hiking Trails in All of Upstate New York

It is absolutely impossible to rank the 40 most scenic hiking trails in all of Upstate New York from prettiest to most grisly. So much depends on a person’s natural appreciation. Where some may prefer the beauty of deep forests or steep, dry cliffs, others might find more solace and serenity in scaling rock to sit beside a strong waterfall. However, one thing that cannot be disputed is that Upstate New York has all of the sights and sounds that any nature enthusiast of any kind can appreciate profoundly. In no particular order, here are the 40 most scenic hiking trails in all of Upstate New York:

1. Gorge & Rim Trail — Buttermilk Falls

Located in the Finger Lakes region, the gorgeous 1.5-mile Gorge & Rim Trail winds through Buttermilk Falls State Park. The trail takes hikers on an easy trek journey where they can take in the breathtaking views afforded by one of the most pristine waterfalls in New York State. Travelers are encouraged to swim at the bottom or relax beside some of the most impressive gorge ponds and waterfalls you’ll ever see.

2. Black Diamond Trail — Taughannock Falls

Although a bit longer, a path that stretches between two to eight miles, most of the Black Diamond Trail is graveled and reasonably easy to traverse. The path winds around Cayuga Lake for awe-inspiring views, and the path offers branches to other trails that take you directly to the gorgeous Taughannock Falls.

3. Gorge Trail — Taughannock Falls

When you first arrive at Taughannock Falls State Park, the waterfalls the park is named for jump out at you as they tower above in the distance. The quickest and, by far, simplest way to see the falls is via the Gorge Trail, which extends from the parking lot and takes approximately 30 minutes to hike. Although a shorter trail than the others at Taughannock Falls, it’s also one of the more scenic.

4. Gorge Trail — Letchworth 

By far one of the most scenic places in New York State, Letchworth State Park, is known as the Grand Canyon of the East. With about 66 miles of different hiking trails, passionate hikers can enjoy the canyon’s beauty any time of year. The most popular hike is the 14-mile-long but easy trek Gorge Trail. The path takes you to a magical view of the falls perfectly nestled into the canyon. The most serene views can be found in autumn, with the most vigorous flow of the falls coming in spring.  

5. Ithaca Falls

For a short scenic hiking trail to another tranquil spot in Upstate New York, hikers are highly encouraged to visit Ithaca Falls. It’s a rocky walk, but most people traverse it without issue. The trail offers an incredible view of the Finger Lakes Waterfalls that cascade over steep canyon walls. Although it’s more of a brisk walk with a distance of only .2 miles, it is a highly recommended hike because of the gorgeous view.

6. Chittenango Falls

In the town of Cazenovia lies a tiny park with an incredible hidden gem — the 167-foot waterfall at Chittenango Falls State Park. Surrounded by an intriguing variety of unique plants and wildlife, the scenic half-mail trail to the falls winds into the gorge and provides epic views from the footbridge and atop the falls.

7. Chimney Bluffs Trail

Chimney Bluffs Trail takes visitors on a stunning 2.9-mile stroll through Chimney Bluffs State Park, which borders the southern shores of Lake Ontario. Hikers can appreciate spectacular views of the shoreline from the edge of the forest that edges around the mounds. The bluffs are enormous and tend to get rather muddy in the spring and fall, so pack durable footwear if you plan to visit the earthen steeples of the bluffs for a hike to remember.

8. Kaaterskill Falls

As the highest waterfall in all of New York, hikers can climb high enough to view the entire Hudson River Valley. The magnificent trail to Kaaterskill Falls is relatively short at only 1.4 miles round trip but is hands-down one of the prettiest places in the state. Although the views are impeccable, the trip can be extremely slippery as you near the top of the falls, so hikers are warned to tread carefully, but by all means, tread it.

9. Indian Head Trail at Rainbow Falls

Approximately 11 miles round trip, the hike up Indian Head Trail is the most scenic way to get to Rainbow Falls. Located in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Indian Head is one of the most iconic spots in the range. Several trails vary in difficulty and distance, but the picturesque hike along Indian Head Trail is a favorite among visitors. Where the trail peaks, hikers are greeted with a jaw-dropping view of the 150-foot cascading Rainbow Falls that sit gloriously in a mystical gorge.

10. Whiteface Mountain

Staying in the Adirondacks, Whiteface Mountain is the fifth-highest peak in New York State. The trails up the mountain are tremendously beautiful but also very demanding. As the slope is popular with experienced skiers, many hike the trails in the winter. The winter views are magical, but bring proper snowshoes to experience the sights properly. The trails are muddier in the spring and fall, but the stunning views make the journey worth the challenge any time of year.  

11. Ampersand Mountain Trail

Coming in with a distance of approximately 5.4 miles, the Ampersand Mountain Trail through the Adirondacks takes most hikers around four hours to complete. The path takes you up steep inclines and even some rock climbing to reach the top, but it comes highly recommended by all who have done it. The stunning beauty at the top of the mountain makes the trail’s difficulty a mere footnote.

12. Cobble Lookout

A relatively flat and easy-to-traverse path, the trail to Cobble Lookout is relatively new. The ascension up the terrain is gradual enough that novice hikers can make the three-mile round trip with minimal effort. While it might not be ideal for challenge-seekers, the view of Ausable Valley and encompassing mountains makes the magnificent trail worth the trip.

13. Nine Corner Lake Trail

Unfortunately, Nine Corner Lake Trail is prone to flooding at times, but the reason for this is a necessary evil. Water can overrun the trail because it wraps around the pristine Nine Corner Lake in the Adirondack Mountains. The Nine Corner Lake Trail is ideal for those who appreciate being lakeside and even swimming on a hot Summer day.

14. Ausable Chasm

Staying in the Adirondacks, Ausable Chasm is hands-down one of the most breathtaking places you can visit in Upstate New York. A few trails wind through the canyon, including the main rim walk, which is an approximately two-mile hike. While there is a fee to hike the trails at Ausable Chasm, there are plenty of ways to get your money’s worth, as there are opportunities to see Rainbow Falls or go rock climbing and river tubing.  

15. Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain

Poke-O-moonshine Mountain is a smaller peak but one of the most serene mountainsides in the Adirondacks. The scenic hiking trails are not incredibly difficult to traverse, but it’s not easy. From the summit, you are given an incredible view of Lake Champlain and the astounding greenery of the surrounding hills.

16. Escarpment Trail — Artist’s Rock & North-South Lake

Home of the largest and most sought-after campgrounds in the Catskill Mountains, North-South Lake is one of the most majestic spots in Upstate New York. This 1.8-mile loop Escarpment Trail is the most scenic way to get to Artist’s Rock, where you can take in the serenity of North-South Lake. The view from Artist’s Rock is second to none.

17. Mary’s Glen Trail — Artist’s Rock & North-South Lake

The much longer Mary’s Glen Trail is piggybacking off the previous mention of the Escarpment Trail to Artist’s Rock at North-South Lake. At 6.2 miles out-and-back, the Mary’s Glen Trail takes you to the same place atop Artist’s Rock. However, the trail offers steeper portions and scrambling requirements for the more seasoned hiker.

18. Awosting Falls & Minnewaska Lake

For multiple trails that are easy to hike with astounding views to appreciate along the way, the trails to Awosting Falls, Minnewaska Lake, and beyond are ideal. Surrounded by canyon-like walls and thick evergreen woods, the lake is the perfect spot to rest and enjoy the scenery before exploring the additional trails beyond the water.

19. Overlook Mountain Trail

Located near Woodstock, NY, Overlook Mountain Trail is filled with amazing views and wild stories told by the ruins of a 1980s plane crash that can be viewed along the hike. The trail is wide and relatively easy to trek, although it’s about 4.6 miles round trip, so it can take a few hours. There are picnic tables at the top of the mountain so hikers can rest a bit and enjoy the view comfortably. The view from the top is marvelous!

20. Gertrude’s Nose

In the Hudson Valley, an unspoiled spot called Gertrude’s Nose is located in Minnewaska State Park. The hike is arduous and can take most of the day, but the views are well worth it. Surrounded by multiple forests, the scenic hiking trails to Gertrude’s Nose offer distinctive views every way you look. Gertrude’s Nose is a 6.7-mile loop trail just outside the town of Kerhonkson.

21. Mount Beacon

Mount Beacon can accommodate you for just about any hike, and the area provides some of the most picturesque views. The trail begins with an intimidating set of stairs embedded into the mountainside, but if you can climb them, the rewarding sights are well worth it. The trail can take you two-six hours to hike depending on how far you go, and is surrounded by the flowing Hudson River and valleys.

22. Sam’s Point & Verkeerderkill Falls

The hike to Verkeerderkill Falls can be challenging and even treacherous. Due to the danger, the trail is closed in the winter. However, the hike to Sam’s Point alone is worth the trip as it gives you genuinely awe-inspiring, unmatched views of the western Hudson Valley that will leave you breathless. Visit the trail in the spring to hike to the falls, but be prepared for a difficult journey complete with ladders to get there.

23. Labyrinth & Lemon Squeeze — Mohonk Mountain Preserve

Located on the Shawangunk Ridge adjacent to Minnewaska State Park, Mohonk Mountain Preserve provides some of the state’s most adorning views and challenging trails. While difficult, requiring a ladder climb, bouldering, rock climbing, and squeezing through a narrow aperture, the Labyrinth and Lemon Squeeze trail is worth it. The hike leads to unparalleled views of the Hudson Valley. The valley is rich with thick forests full of precious sights and fascinating wildlife.

24. Anthony’s Nose

Remaining in the Hudson Valley and for a flawless view of the Hudson River, one of the best hikes in Upstate New York is the trail to Anthony’s Nose. There are also two trails here. Both take you to the peak and leave you with jaw-dropping views of Bear Mountain and Bear Mountain Ridge on the opposite side of the river.  

25. Bear Mountain

Speaking of Bear Mountain, the hike through Bear Mountain State Park is a classic Upstate New York hike. The Views of the Hudson River and surrounding valley are astonishing, particularly in the fall. The trail is nearly five miles long and challenging, but the spectacular views make it more than bearable.

26. Gorge Trail — Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen is one of Upstate New York’s most popular parks in the Finger Lakes, on the southern end of Lake Seneca. A significant reason why the destination is so famous is because of its incredible 19 waterfalls! The views throughout the park leave visitors spellbound as the stream soars past 200-foot cliffs, descending 400 feet along the way. The rather easy-to-walk Gorge Trail is one of the most scenic hiking trails as it winds through the gorge, showing off each of the park’s waterfalls.

27. Bash Bish Falls

Pushing the state’s boundaries, Bash Bish Falls can be accessed through Taconic State Park on the border of New York and Massachusetts. The hike to Bash Bish Falls from the New York side is lengthy but easy to traverse as it carries you through dense majestic forests and settles you into a postcard-worthy view of the falls.

28. Gorge Trail — Robert H. Treman State Park

There is no shortage of stunning views at Robert H. Treman State Park. The 115-foot Lucifer Falls is a main attraction. While there are several trails throughout the park, there’s no better way to see these falls than the Gorge Trail. The path also wraps around the park with views of the gorge all around, leading you to a wonderful little swimming hole to cool down.

29. Rim Trail — Robert H. Treman State Park

As mentioned above, there are multiple trails at Robert H. Treman State Park. Besides the Gorge Trail, the Rim Trail provides some of the most pristine views in the park. From the Rim Trail, hikers can expect to see the dozens of waterfalls flowing through the area. You can also see the gorge and reach the swimming hole from the Rim Trail.

30. Interloken Trail at Finger Lakes National Forest

Finger Lakes National Forest is enormous and loaded with enchanting hiking trails. One of the nicest is the Interloken Trail, which runs wide and relatively smooth through the park. Nestled between Cayuga and Seneca Lakes, the trail is the perfect path through calm, dense forest. No waterfalls or rivers are in view from this trail. It positions itself as a delicate break from the rock walls and rushing waters surrounding the Finger Lakes region.

31. Vroman’s Nose

Located in the state’s center, Vroman’s Nose is still in Upstate New York. Although the scenic hiking trails to Vroman’s Nose are steep and challenging to ascend, the view from the peak is astonishing. The fantastic picture of the surrounding valley below regularly leaves hikers flabbergasted and grateful to have made the trip.

32. Devil’s Hole State Park

Situated just a tad north of Niagara Falls, the Devil’s Hole Rapids at Devil’s Hole State Park is positioned off the Niagara River. Every bit worth the hike, the trail to the Devil’s Hole Rapids is etched in the memories of all hikers who have been there. This is because of the astounding views and the beautiful, rustic stone staircase that takes you right down to the water.

33. Eternal Flames Falls

Orchard Park is not only home to the Buffalo Bills but also the location of a genuine natural wonder. Eternal Flames Falls is a two-tier waterfall accessible by a beautiful one-hour hike. The sulfur-rich gasses that emit from the cracks around the falls make many spots curiously flammable. A large fissure nestled inside a grotto provides the ideal conditions and protection from the wind, which works in harmony to keep a flame lit for eternity. The sight truly is a marvel to behold.

34. Escarpment Trail — Thacher State Park

On the other side of the state lies the Escarpment Trail at Thacher State Park. This trail guides you through fossil-rich limestone formations, under the Mine Lot Waterfall, and around the park. Cliffs, wooded surroundings, and rolling valleys unite for a picturesque journey.

35. South Rim Red Trail Loop at Plotter Kill Preserve

Plotter Kill Preserve lies in the Capital Region of New York State and shows off the area’s scenic hiking trails and beauty. A hike along the South Rim Red Trail Loop is highly recommended for those who want to see the most of what the preserve has to offer, including a gorge, striking wooded areas, gushing waterfalls, exceptional birding, and much more.

36. Mount Tuscarora Trail at Allegany State Park

For the most incredible view of Western New York, there is no better place than Allegany State Park — the most prominent New York State Park at 65,000 acres. There are countless trails, and one of the most arduous to hike has the most outstanding views. Mount Tuscarora Trail is challenging, but the sights to behold along the way and at the end are well worth it.

37. Wellesley Island State Park

As a state park that is also an island, Wellesley Island State Park resides in the middle of the St. Lawrence River. The main trail loops around the island. This gorgeous trail offers stunning views of the beach, water, and surrounding forests that are not easy to forget.

38. Great Dune Trails Loop

The Albany Pine Bush Preserves has gorgeous forests and multiple hiking trails. Although the Great Dune Trails Loop starts near a highway, it soon takes you through a maze of densely wooded scenery and scattered waterways. Avid birders and other nature enthusiasts sincerely appreciate this trail for its scenery and diverse wildlife.

39. Henry’s Woods Trails 

With multiple rugged trails, the Henry’s Woods Trails at Lake Placid are some of the most scenic hiking trails in Upstate New York. Pinpointing one trail is difficult as each offer something different for each hiker’s unique preferences. One thing that can’t be disputed, however, is the stunning scenery surrounding all trails across the area. From thick, evergreen-rich valleys to views of the nearby mountains, it’s the ideal spot for any hiker.

40. High Falls Gorge

Although the trails are paved and flat for easy hiking, the views at High Falls Gorge are second to none. Hikers should expect to witness four separate rushing waterfalls and a gorge unrivaled by any other in the state. The trails welcome all visitors who can genuinely appreciate the finest sights and engaging sounds of Upstate New York’s diverse ecosystem.

Summary of the Most Scenic Hiking Trails in Upstate New York