The best walks and hikes around Forest Hills

Yes, the area is very welcoming for beginners. Most trails, particularly those in Forest Park, feature minimal elevation change and well-maintained paths. The terrain is generally made up of gently rolling hills and parkland paths, making it accessible for hikers of all ability levels.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in the parks around Forest Hills, including Forest Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check the specific park regulations before you go, as some areas may have off-leash hours or designated dog-friendly zones.

Forest Park offers several excellent loop trails. The marked trails, such as the 1-mile Yellow Trail and the 2.4-mile Orange Trail, are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. These are great for a straightforward and enjoyable hike.

Forest Park is accessible via public transportation. You can take the subway or various bus lines that stop near the park's entrances. It's best to check an up-to-date transit map to find the most direct route to your desired trailhead from your starting location in New York City.

The terrain in Forest Park is a unique 'knob and kettle' landscape formed by glaciers. This means you'll encounter rolling hills and depressions, but the trails themselves are not overly strenuous. You'll be hiking through the 165-acre Oak Forest, which provides a dense, serene canopy over dirt and leaf-covered paths.

Absolutely. The trails in Forest Park are ideal for families with children. The Yellow Trail, at just one mile, is a perfect short loop that passes a pond, which can be exciting for kids. The park also has seven playgrounds and the historic Forest Park Carousel for after your walk.

While Forest Park is the main hiking destination, you can also explore nearby green spaces. Cunningham Park and Alley Pond Park both offer their own networks of hiking and nature trails. Flushing Meadows–Corona Park is another large, nearby park, though it is better known for paved walking paths than rugged hiking.

Within Forest Park, key points of interest include the historic Pine Grove, planted in 1914, and Strack Pond, a restored kettle pond that's a great spot for birdwatching. The park's ridges also offer occasional scenic views over Jamaica Bay. The main attraction, however, is the immersive experience of walking through one of Queens' largest continuous oak forests.

Yes, there are parking lots available within Forest Park, typically located near major entrances and recreational facilities. However, spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early is recommended to secure a parking space.

Yes, in addition to the unpaved hiking trails, Forest Park has paved paths, including a bridle path that is also used by walkers and runners. If you're looking for more extensive paved options, nearby Flushing Meadows–Corona Park has many miles of paved pathways suitable for walking, running, and cycling.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the surprising feeling of being immersed in nature so close to the city. The dense canopy of the Oak Forest in Forest Park is frequently mentioned as a highlight, providing a peaceful escape from the urban environment.

You can find over 20 different routes for hiking and walking around Forest Hills on komoot. These range from short loops within a single park to longer combinations that explore the varied green spaces the area has to offer.