The best walks and hikes around East Kingston
4.7
(8)
132
hikers
17
hikes
Hiking around East Kingston, New Hampshire, offers diverse landscapes characterized by Appalachian Oak-Pine Forest, grasslands, and wetlands. The region features several town forests and conservation areas, providing a network of trails along brooks and rivers. These varied habitats support a wide array of flora and fauna, making it a notable area for nature observation.
Best hiking trails around East Kingston
- The most popular hiking route is Turkey Point from Ulster Landing, a 1.5 miles (2.5 km) trail that takes 43 minutes to complete. This easy route features a gentle elevation gain of 233 feet (71 meters).
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hudson River Brickyard Trail, an easy 0.8 miles (1.3 km) path. This trail offers minimal elevation change, making it suitable for a quick 22-minute walk.
- Local hikers also love the Ferncliff Red Trail, a 2.1 miles (3.4 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 54 minutes.
- Hiking around East Kingston is defined by Appalachian Oak-Pine Forest, grasslands, and conservation areas with trails along waterways. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more moderate paths.
- The routes in East Kingston are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 6 reviews. More than 70 hikers have used komoot to explore East Kingston's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
1
hikers
2.47km
00:43
70m
70m
The Turkey Point from Ulster Landing trail offers a charming and accessible outdoor experience, perfect for a quick nature fix. This easy 1.5-mile (2.5 km) hike, with a modest 232 feet (71 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 43 minutes to complete. You'll wander through diverse habitats, from quiet woodlands to open fields, all while enjoying scenic views of the Hudson River and discovering the historical remains of an old ice house along the bank.
Planning your visit is simple, as the trail is easily accessed from Ulster Landing County Park. The park provides convenient parking, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it a great spot for families. It's a fantastic option for a leisurely stroll or a dedicated birdwatching excursion, offering a convenient and rewarding outdoor experience.
What makes this trail particularly special is its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Beyond the picturesque Hudson River frontage, the area is a significant natural feature, serving as a unique marsh bird breeding ground and an important staging area for migrating waterfowl. The historical ice house remains add a layer of interest, connecting you to the region's past.
1
hikers
1.34km
00:22
30m
10m
The Hudson River Brickyard Trail offers a delightful and accessible experience, winding along a paved path that meanders through former industrial land now reclaimed by nature. You'll enjoy stunning, expansive views of the Hudson River, with glimpses of nearby cliffs and the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge. Keep an eye out for remnants of the area's brick-making history, like old pipes and discarded bricks, which add a unique character to the scenery.
This easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) hiking route has a minimal 94 feet (29 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 21 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels, including those with strollers or bikes. You'll find amenities like restrooms, benches, and bike repair tools along the way.
What makes this trail truly special is its blend of natural beauty and historical significance; it's one of the few places along the Empire State Trail that offers direct river access and majestic waterfront views. As a segment of the Empire State Trail and the Kingston Greenline, it connects you to a much larger network, all within the recently established Sojourner Truth State Park.
Sign up for free
4.00km
01:02
20m
20m
The Kingston Point Rail Trail offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and urban history, winding through wooded areas and opening up to stunning views of the Hudson River and Rondout Creek. You'll traverse a mix of paved, stone-dust, and crushed gravel surfaces, with some sections presenting a moderate challenge, including a long hill. Keep an eye out for the Rondout Lighthouse and the Kingston Point Light House as you enjoy this scenic journey.
This easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) hike, with a gentle 72 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. It's a fantastic option for families and dog owners, offering an accessible escape into nature within the city. The trail connects Midtown Kingston to the Rondout waterfront, making it easy to reach, and many flatter sections are ADA compliant.
Following the route of the former Ulster and Delaware Railroad, the trail is steeped in history, with remnants of old tracks still visible and a restored 19th-century tunnel taking you under US Route 9W. It's a key part of the Kingston Greenline and the larger Empire State Trail, providing a vital link between community points like Kingston High School and the YMCA.
3.40km
00:54
40m
30m
The Ferncliff Red Trail offers a serene escape into the heart of an old-growth forest, winding through diverse plant life on a flowy singletrack path. You'll navigate packed dirt and leaves, occasionally encountering small roots and rock wall crossings that add to the natural feel of the route. It's a wonderful place for nature study, bird watching, and simply enjoying the quiet beauty of large deciduous trees, especially vibrant with wildflowers in the spring.
This easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hiking trail, with a gentle 134 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in under an hour, typically around 54 minutes. Ferncliff Forest is free to access, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option for a quick outdoor adventure. It's a great choice for families or beginners looking for a straightforward and enjoyable walk.
Part of the historic Astor family estate, Ferncliff Forest is notable for its significant old-growth trees and remnants of its past, like old foundations and root cellars. While the Red Trail itself doesn't lead directly to the fire tower, it's part of a network that allows access to this 80-foot observation tower, offering panoramic views of the Hudson River, Catskill Mountains, and the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge.
35.2km
09:04
180m
150m
Prepare for a demanding hike on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, a difficult route stretching 21.9 miles (35.2 km). This journey involves an elevation gain of 589 feet (180 metres) and typically takes around 9 hours and 3 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, moving through dense woods, across open fields, and alongside active farmland. A major highlight is the Rosendale Trestle, which provides expansive views of the Hudson Valley and Rondout Creek from 150 feet up.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trail features a well-maintained stone-dust surface, with some paved sections as it passes through towns. This is a multi-use path, so you will share it with cyclists and equestrians; remember to yield to horses. The route is clearly marked with excellent signage and mile markers, making navigation straightforward from start to finish. Consider starting early to make the most of the long duration.
This historic railway corridor winds through Ulster County, New York, offering a glimpse into the region's past. The trail's path allows you to appreciate the picturesque Shawangunk Ridge and the Wallkill River as you progress. It serves as a significant recreational artery, connecting various communities and natural areas along its extensive length.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Intersection with road. Can see that there is more trail being built.
0
0
The Rosendale Trestle Bridge is a famous bridge crossing along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail between Joppenbergh Mountain Park and Hardenbergh Park. This wooden boards making the base of the bridge are a little weathered, so watch your footing as you cross.
0
0
The Springtown Truss Bridge crosses the Wallkill River. It was once part of the Wallkill Valley Railroad, running between Ulster County and New York city. The bridge was originally built in 1870 and made of wood, but was rebuilt using iron in the early 1880s.
0
0
In this National Historic Landmark District, there are 7 historic stone-house museums, a reconstructed church from 1717, an old burying ground and a replica Esopus Munsee wigwam. This is a great outdoor museum to explore. Keep an eye out for the blue and yellow signs, which provide information on the different buildings.
2
0
The Springtown Truss Bridge crosses the Wallkill River. It was once formed part of the Wallkill Valley Railroad, running between Ulster County and New York city. The bridge was originally built in 1870 and made of wood, but was rebuilt using iron in the early 1880s.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in and around East Kingston?
East Kingston and its surrounding areas offer a variety of hiking opportunities, with over 10 routes documented on komoot. These trails range from easy strolls to more challenging paths, catering to different fitness levels.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, East Kingston has many easy trails. For example, the Turkey Point from Ulster Landing is an easy 1.5-mile route, and the Hudson River Brickyard Trail is an even shorter 0.8-mile path, both with minimal elevation changes. The region's town forests also offer numerous accessible paths.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see while hiking in East Kingston?
East Kingston's trails wind through diverse landscapes, including Appalachian Oak-Pine Forests, grasslands, shrublands, and wetlands. You can expect to encounter features like brooks, rivers, and even beaver dams. The Onteora Lake is also a notable natural attraction nearby.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in East Kingston?
Yes, the Valley Lane Town Forest features a picturesque waterfall and a pool along its 1.5-mile Red Trail, near the Brian Quinlan Memorial Bridge. This offers a scenic highlight during your hike.
What do other hikers say about the trails in East Kingston?
The hiking routes in East Kingston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 6 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, diverse habitats, and well-maintained paths found within the town's conservation areas and forests.
Are there any long-distance hiking options or more challenging routes?
For those seeking a longer challenge, the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail offers a difficult 21.9-mile route. While many trails in East Kingston are easy to moderate, this option provides a significant distance for experienced hikers.
Can I find circular hiking routes in East Kingston?
Many of East Kingston's town forests, such as Acorn Town Forest, offer loop trails. The main Red Trail in Acorn Town Forest, for instance, loops through old logging roads and single-track paths, providing a circular hiking experience.
Are there any specific conservation areas or town forests worth exploring?
East Kingston is rich in conservation areas. Notable ones include Acorn Town Forest, Frye Town Forest, and Valley Lane Town Forest, each offering unique trail networks and natural features. ET's Landing, within the Sargent Management Area, provides excellent views along the Powwow River.
What kind of wildlife might I see on the trails?
East Kingston is recognized for its high-ranked wildlife habitats, supporting a wide array of flora and fauna. Hikers might spot various bird species like bobolinks and eastern meadowlarks, as well as animals such as turtles, fox, and fisher, especially in the diverse ecosystems of the conservation areas.
Are there any nearby attractions or landmarks to visit after a hike?
Yes, beyond the trails, you can explore nearby landmarks such as the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail (as a highlight), the George Clinton Kingston–Rhinecliff Bridge, and the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse. The East Kingston Town Beach also offers access to Powwow Pond for a serene lakeside experience.
Is there public transport available to reach hiking trails in East Kingston?
While specific public transport routes directly to trailheads in East Kingston, NH, are limited, it's advisable to check local transit authority websites for any available bus services that might connect to the general area. Most trail access typically relies on personal vehicle transport.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in East Kingston?
The best time to hike in East Kingston is generally during spring, summer, and fall. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall provides stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days and warmer weather, though insect repellent is recommended. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice.
Are there any trails suitable for families with children?
Many of East Kingston's town forests and conservation areas offer easy, shorter trails perfect for families. The Little River Conservation Area, for instance, provides an easy 2.75-mile hike, and the trails around Powwow Pond are also very accessible for all ages.
Most popular attractions around East Kingston
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
