The best walks and hikes around Hurley

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.

Embark on an easy hike along the Jockey Hill and Wintergreen Ridge Trail, a peaceful route spanning 3.8 miles (6.1 km). You will experience a gentle ascent, gaining 305 feet (93 metres) in elevation over approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. The path winds through pleasant long-needle pine forests, offering varied terrain and smooth sections. Keep an eye out for several small creeks and waterfalls, including a larger one visible further along the trail, adding to the scenic beauty within the Bluestone Wild Forest.

You can easily start your adventure from the Jockey Hill–Wintergreen Parking Area, where ample space is available for your vehicle. However, if you plan to visit during the colder months, be aware that this parking area is not plowed in winter. This means access might be limited, and you should check conditions before heading out. Planning your trip for warmer seasons will ensure a smoother experience and easier access to the trailhead.

This trail provides a straightforward hiking overview for anyone looking to explore the Bluestone Wild Forest. It offers a diverse and peaceful natural environment, making it a great option for a quick outdoor escape. The route is ideal for those seeking a tranquil experience without demanding climbs or technical sections, allowing you to simply enjoy the natural surroundings.

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.

Explore the easy 0.6-mile Widow Jane Mine and Snyder Estate Trail, a historic site with unique underground mine features and natural scenery