The best walks and hikes around Mount Vernon
4.9
(46)
529
hikers
52
hikes
Hiking around Mount Vernon, Washington, traverses a diverse landscape characterized by river valleys, forested hills, and accessible city parks and greenways. The region features a variety of natural features, including the Skagit River, wooded areas, and wetlands. Terrain varies from gentle riverside paths to more challenging climbs through old-growth forests and up hills offering panoramic vistas. Hikers can find extensive views of the Skagit River, distant mountains, and the Puget Sound.
Best hiking trails around Mount Vernon
- The most popular hiking route is Bronx River Pathway, a 5.6 miles (9.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 17 minutes to complete. This route features a moderate difficulty and minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Glen Island, an easy 1.8 miles (2.9 km) path. This trail offers a short, accessible walk with low elevation.
- Local hikers also love the Hunter Island Loop Trail, a 2.0 miles (3.1 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 48 minutes.
- Hiking around Mount Vernon is defined by river valleys, forested hills, and coastal viewpoints. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy riverside strolls to moderate climbs.
- The routes in Mount Vernon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 44 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Mount Vernon's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
8.95km
02:17
30m
20m
Hike the moderate 5.6-mile Bronx River Pathway through the Bronx River Parkway Reservation, featuring river views and the Bronx River Waterf
3
hikers
2.86km
00:44
10m
10m
Glen Island Park hiking offers a unique blend of coastal scenery and historical intrigue, making it a fantastic choice for a relaxed outing. The easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) loop features well-maintained paths that wind past sandy beaches and rocky shorelines, providing continuous waterfront views of the Long Island Sound. With only 25 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, this route is more of a comfortable stroll than a strenuous hike, taking approximately 43 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to Glen Island is straightforward, as the island is connected to the mainland by a drawbridge, ensuring easy access. You'll find plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors, with amenities like picnic areas and a beach available for use. This makes it a great spot for a casual walk followed by some relaxation, suitable for families and beginners looking for a pleasant day trip.
What truly sets Glen Island apart is its fascinating past as a 19th-century theme park, with remnants like the castle-like structures and the historic Glen Island Casino still visible today. The island itself was created by merging several smaller islands with landfill, adding to its unique story. This historical context, combined with the natural beauty, makes hiking in Glen Island New Rochelle a memorable experience beyond just the scenic views.
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1
hikers
3.15km
00:48
10m
10m
The Hunter Island Loop Trail offers a delightful journey through a surprisingly wild landscape within New York City. You'll traverse varied terrain, from packed earth paths winding through maritime forests with old-growth trees to rocky sections and sandy stretches near the Long Island Sound. Keep an eye out for the striking glacial erratics and exposed Manhattan schist bedrock, testaments to the area's deep geological history, as you meander past lagoons and salt marshes.
Planning your visit to this easy 2.0-mile (3.1 km) loop is straightforward, with the trail located conveniently within Pelham Bay Park. While the 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain is negligible, making it accessible for nearly everyone, it's wise to bring a navigation app. The route, which takes about 48 minutes to complete, has several criss-crossing paths that can be confusing without a map, ensuring you stay on the main loop.
This trail is a true ecological gem, celebrated for its unique urban wilderness. It's home to some of the few remaining intertidal marshes and exposed bedrock in New York City, supporting diverse plant and animal life, including migratory birds. A significant portion of the route is part of the Kazimiroff Nature Trail, honoring a Bronx naturalist, and you'll also pass Orchard Beach, a man-made beach from the 1930s, offering a pleasant spot to rest.
1
hikers
3.92km
01:01
30m
30m
The Tibbetts Brook Park Loop Trail offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility, making it a perfect spot for a quick escape. You'll wander through lush forested areas, enjoying the shade and the sounds of birds, with the peaceful Tibbetts Brook and a tranquil pond adding to the serene atmosphere. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like swans and ducks, especially near the water, as you navigate the varied terrain.
This easy hiking route is conveniently located in Yonkers, making it an accessible option for many. The well-maintained paths are navigable year-round, so you can enjoy the park's charm in any season. With a distance of 2.4 miles (3.9 km) and a modest 86 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain, it takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete, fitting easily into a busy schedule.
Tibbetts Brook Park is more than just a trail; it's an urban oasis with a rich history, once part of the Battle of Kingsbridge. It connects to a larger network of green spaces, including the South County Trailway, offering extended exploration opportunities. The park also boasts family-friendly amenities like a swimming pool complex and playgrounds, making it a versatile destination for outdoor recreation.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
26.6km
06:50
130m
80m
Hike the 16.5-mile South County Trailway, a paved rail trail through Westchester County parks, featuring Woodlands Lake and diverse scenery.
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Tips from the Community
one of the many great bike paths in New York (State) leads directly north. Paved and mostly through forest, it's great to ride. Super to use for a longer round.
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In NYC through the Bronx along the Bronx River it is not a nice situation. This take about 20-25 Km up to Takahou. But in the city some nice stages like this on the foto
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The path is also easy to navigate in the summer heat, as it is nice and shady and often close to cooling water.
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Just next to Parkway Oval Park you gain some lovely views of the Bronx River and some small rapids as it flows down next to the path. A lovely spot to stop and take in the peaceful ambience of the river.
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This 161-acre park, named for George Tibbetts, a Briton who settled the land in 1668, was one of the first parks in the area and has been around since 1927. The park includes a nice lake with a paved trail looping around it. You'll most likely see some ducks or other birds enjoying the water as well.
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This lake is located in the area's oldest park, which has been open since 1925. There's a nice path that encircles the lake, offering views of the entire area.
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Simply beautiful places along the way. This is how the entire path looks like (with small exceptions on a few 100 m).
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I hope you won't need it, but it's good to know where to find tools and air pump.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Mount Vernon?
Mount Vernon offers over 30 hiking routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a diverse range of trails, from easy riverside paths to more challenging climbs through forested areas.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Mount Vernon?
The terrain around Mount Vernon is quite varied, featuring river valleys, forested hills, and coastal viewpoints. Trails range from gentle, paved paths along the Skagit River to rugged, multi-purpose trails with significant elevation changes in places like Little Mountain Park, offering everything from leisurely walks to challenging climbs.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Mount Vernon?
Yes, Mount Vernon has many family-friendly options, with over 20 easy routes available. Trails like the Skagit Riverwalk Trail offer scenic, flat walks. The Kiwanis Park Boardwalk is wheelchair-accessible, and Edgewater Park provides paved and unpaved areas along the river, suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on trails in Mount Vernon?
Many trails in the Mount Vernon area are dog-friendly, though it's always best to check specific park regulations. Generally, dogs are welcome on a leash, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion.
Where can I find panoramic views or viewpoints during a hike?
For stunning vistas, head to Little Mountain Park, which offers panoramic views of the western Skagit Valley, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains from its south viewpoint, and Mount Baker from its north viewpoint. Deception Pass State Park and Samish Overlook also provide dramatic views of Puget Sound and the Cascades.
Are there any challenging hikes in the Mount Vernon area?
While many trails are easy to moderate, Mount Vernon does offer some challenging options, with 3 routes rated as difficult and 10 as moderate. Trails like the 'Up Only' Trail in Little Mountain Park provide a good workout with significant climbs. For longer, more strenuous hikes, exploring areas within Deception Pass State Park can also offer a challenge.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, many trails in Mount Vernon are designed as loops, which are popular for both runners and hikers. A great example is the Little Mountain Park Loop, which offers varied terrain and views in a convenient circular format.
What are some interesting natural features or landmarks to see while hiking?
Hikers can explore a variety of natural features. Little Mountain Park features an interpretive Nature Trail and a seasonal creek. Deception Pass State Park boasts rugged cliffs and old-growth forests, with the iconic Deception Pass Bridge nearby. Ladder Creek Falls offers beautiful waterfalls in a forested setting, and the Kulshan Trail passes by salmon rearing ponds.
Is public transport available to reach hiking trailheads?
While specific public transport routes to all trailheads may vary, Mount Vernon's trail network, including paths like the Kulshan Trail, connects downtown with other areas, making some trails more accessible. For more remote trailheads, personal vehicles are generally recommended.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Mount Vernon?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 45 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained trails, and the accessibility of natural beauty, from riverside strolls to panoramic mountain views.
Are there any trails that pass by water features like lakes or rivers?
Absolutely. The Skagit Riverwalk Trail offers scenic views directly along the Skagit River. The Eaglemont Trail passes by wetlands and a beaver pond, and the Kiwanis Park Boardwalk travels through park wetlands. Diablo Lake, though a short drive away, is known for its vibrant turquoise waters.
What is the best time of year for hiking in Mount Vernon?
Mount Vernon offers year-round hiking opportunities. Many trails, particularly those at lower elevations like in Little Mountain Park, remain usable even when higher elevation trails might be snowed over. Spring brings blooming flowers, while fall offers vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer treks, and winter provides a quieter, often misty, experience.
Are there any trails suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, the Kiwanis Park Boardwalk is a notable wheelchair-accessible raised boardwalk that travels through park wetlands. Additionally, paved sections of trails like the Kulshan Trail and Edgewater Park offer smooth surfaces suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
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