Easy hikes and walks in Washington County

The Shelving Rock Mountain Trail offers an easy hike through beautiful wooded scenery. You'll follow what was once an old carriage road, enjoying gentle grades and switchbacks as you ascend. This 1.6-mile (2.6 km) route involves a 566-foot (172 metres) elevation gain, making it a quick adventure you can complete in about 50 minutes. From the summit, you'll find expansive views of Lake George, especially from a hidden lookout offering a 180-degree panorama. It's a perfect way to experience the area's natural beauty without a strenuous effort.

Parking is typically available right at the trailhead, providing straightforward access to this scenic route. The trail is generally well-maintained and suitable for families looking for a pleasant outing. While it's a popular spot for snowshoeing during winter, always check local conditions before you head out in colder months. This ensures you're prepared for any changes in weather or trail accessibility. Planning your visit around good weather will enhance your experience on the mountain.

Before you even start the climb, don't miss the picturesque Shelving Rock Falls near the trailhead. This 50-foot cascade adds another natural highlight to your trip, offering a lovely spot to visit. The trail itself is located within the Lake George Wild Forest, an area known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. It's a great option if you're seeking a rewarding view without committing to a long or difficult journey.

Embark on an easy hike along the Buck Mountain Trail from Pilot Knob, a gentle route that spans 1.9 miles (3.0 km) with no elevation gain. This makes it a perfect choice for a quick outdoor escape, taking approximately 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. You'll find yourself immersed in a peaceful forest setting, offering a refreshing experience without the challenge of steep climbs. The trail provides a pleasant walk, ideal for those seeking a relaxed pace and natural beauty.

This accessible trail is well-suited for a casual outing, and its easy difficulty means it's great for families or anyone looking for a less strenuous activity. Parking is typically available near the Pilot Knob trailhead, making access straightforward. Consider visiting during the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light, enhancing your hiking experience. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially during peak seasons.

While this specific segment is short and flat, the broader Buck Mountain area is known for its scenic beauty and connection to the Lake George Wild Forest. This trail offers a taste of the region's natural charm, providing a tranquil environment away from more crowded paths. It serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the area or simply enjoying a brief moment of nature.

Embark on an easy hike along the Inman Pond Trail, a peaceful route that winds through mixed hardwoods. You will cover 2.2 miles (3.6 km) and gain 332 feet (101 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 1 hour to complete. The path follows streams with rushing water, creating a serene atmosphere as you make your way to the secluded 5.2-acre Inman Pond. Once there, seek out the large boulder on the west end of the pond; it provides excellent views of the surrounding wooded hills. This trail offers a quiet escape, often less busy than other areas in the Lake George region.

Before you begin your hike on the Inman Pond Trail, remember to sign the registration book located at the trailhead. This helps park officials keep track of visitors for safety reasons. While the trail is generally accessible, be prepared for potentially muddy sections, particularly during the spring months. Bringing waterproof footwear is a practical choice to ensure a comfortable experience on the path.

The Inman Pond Trail is nestled within the expansive Lake George Wild Forest, a region known for its natural beauty and outdoor opportunities. This particular route stands out for its tranquil setting, offering a less crowded alternative to some of the more popular spots in the area. The secluded pond and surrounding woodlands provide a perfect environment for quiet contemplation and enjoying nature.

Embark on an easy hike along the Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail, a gentle 4.3-mile (6.9 km) route that takes approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes to complete. You'll experience a modest elevation gain of 170 feet (52 metres) as you journey through scenic countryside. The trail offers a pleasant blend of natural beauty and historical industrial landscapes, winding past rolling hills, active farms, and dense forests. Look out for dairy farms and an airport near Granville as you begin your adventure. A highlight is crossing the bridge over the Mettawee River, which opens up to picturesque Vermont farmland.

Parking for the Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail is conveniently available in Granville, close to the old railroad depot, making access straightforward. This multi-use trail welcomes walkers, bikers, and even snowshoers, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. Consider starting your hike in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. At the trail's end in West Pawlet, Vermont, you can find refreshments and ideal spots for a picnic.

This section of the D&H Rail Trail offers a unique immersion into the historic Slate Valley, an area renowned for its distinctive green, purple, and red slate. The route's character is shaped by this industrial heritage, visible in the surrounding landscapes. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's past while offering a tranquil outdoor experience. The trail's connection to the Slate Valley makes it a notable route for those interested in both nature and local history.

Embark on the Gull Bay Preserve Loop for an easy hike through varied terrain, perfect for a relaxing outing. You will wander through mixed hardwood forests and along old logging roads, enjoying expansive views of Gull Bay and Lake George from several viewpoints. This route covers 2.8 miles (4.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 230 feet (70 metres), taking approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete at a steady pace.

When planning your visit, you will find the Gull Bay Preserve Loop generally uncrowded, offering a peaceful experience. The trail is largely family-friendly, making it a great option for all ages. However, be aware that dogs are not permitted in the beaver pond section of the preserve. You can also find a clearly marked viewpoint with a picnic table just 0.2 miles from the start, ideal for a quick break.

A notable highlight of this trail is the active beaver pond, where wetland boardwalks provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for Great Blue Herons and beavers in their natural habitat. This low-effort, high-reward experience allows you to connect with nature and observe the local ecosystem without a strenuous climb.

Discover the Dionondahowa Falls Trail, an easy hike leading to a surprisingly large waterfall. This short route covers just 0.3 miles (0.5 km) with no elevation gain, making it accessible for almost everyone. You can expect to reach the impressive 60-foot ribbon step cascade in about 8 minutes, offering a quick and rewarding experience. The trail provides several viewpoints to appreciate the power of the river-wide waterfall, which combines natural falls with a dam structure. Even with some vegetation, you will find spots to take in the scenery.

When planning your visit to Dionondahowa Falls, be aware that the location has no facilities, staff, or security. The trail can become quite muddy, particularly after rainfall, so wearing appropriate footwear is highly recommended for your comfort and safety. You should also know that access to the very bottom of the falls might be impassable at certain times due to high water or washed-away sections. It is always a good idea to check local conditions before you head out.

The Dionondahowa Falls are considered a true hidden gem within Washington County, offering a unique natural spectacle. What makes this waterfall particularly notable is its structure as a ribbon step cascade, dropping in three distinct main steps. It's an interesting blend of natural falls and a dam, creating a powerful river-wide display that sets it apart. This short, easy route offers a quick opportunity to experience a distinctive natural feature that many might overlook.

Embark on the Record Hill Trail for a rewarding, short hike that packs a punch. This easy route covers 0.7 miles (1.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 659 feet (201 metres), taking approximately 33 minutes to complete. You will experience a stiff climb through an open canopy of hardwoods, leading to spectacular views. From the rocky summit of Record Hill, you can enjoy expansive vistas over Lake George, including Friends Point and Rogers Rock. A second viewing area also offers northern perspectives along the lake, allowing you to look west over Anthony's Nose.

Planning your visit to Record Hill Trail is straightforward. The trail is situated within the Anthony's Nose Preserve, which welcomes visitors year-round for various activities, including hiking and snowshoeing. Public access to this scenic route was established in 2015, making it a relatively new way to explore the Lake George shoreline. You will generally find parking available directly at the trailhead, ensuring convenient access to start your adventure. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience, especially if you prefer fewer crowds on the ascent.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the Lake George shoreline from an elevated perspective. The area is also a regular breeding ground for peregrine falcons, so keep an eye out for these majestic birds soaring above. The Anthony's Nose Preserve provides a vital natural habitat and a chance to connect with the region's wildlife. It stands out as a quick yet impactful way to gain panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Embark on the Shelving Rock Mountain Trail, an easy hike that takes you through pleasant woodlands, mostly under tree cover. You will gain 661 feet (201 metres) in elevation over its 3.7 miles (6.0 km) length, leading to rewarding panoramic views of Lake George from the summit. The route follows an old carriage road for much of the way, making for generally gentle grades, though you should expect some rocky sections with small stones and roots underfoot. This hike typically takes about 1 hour and 48 minutes to complete, offering a manageable outdoor experience. Consider a brief detour to Shelving Rock Falls near the trailhead for an added scenic stop.

Planning your visit to Shelving Rock Mountain Trail is straightforward. Parking is usually available close to the trailhead, providing easy access to begin your hike. While the grades are generally easy due to the old carriage road, some sections can be rocky with small stones and roots, so wearing appropriate hiking footwear is recommended for your comfort and safety. This trail is accessible for most of the year, but always check local conditions before heading out, especially during shoulder seasons. Starting your hike earlier in the day can help you avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.

This trail is a highlight within the Lake George Wild Forest, offering a classic Adirondack hiking experience. The primary appeal lies in the stunning vistas of Lake George that unfold from the mountain's peak, providing excellent photo opportunities. Beyond the summit views, the trail's path along an old carriage road gives it a unique historical feel, blending natural beauty with a touch of the past. It stands out as a great option for those seeking a relatively short and accessible hike with significant scenic payoff in the region.

Hike the easy 3.7-mile Inman Pond Loop Trail in Lake George Wild Forest, leading to a tranquil, secluded pond.