Jaynes Hill

The West Hills Park Purple and Orange Loops trail offers a refreshing escape into a diverse and engaging landscape, feeling far more remote than its location suggests. As you traverse the route, you'll wander through quiet, mature forests, alternating between fragrant pine groves and sturdy hardwood trees, with the path often wide and well-marked. The rolling topography and dense canopy create an immersive experience, especially as you approach the historic Walt Whitman Trail leading towards Jaynes Hill.

This moderate hiking route covers 9.5 miles (15.3 km) with 562 feet (171 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 6 minutes to complete. It's accessible year-round, though you should be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions, particularly after heavy rains or during colder seasons. The trail is very dog-friendly, provided your furry friends are kept on a leash, making it a great option for a family outing.

What makes this trail stand out is its connection to Long Island's highest natural point, Jaynes Hill, and its surprisingly wild feel despite being close to local roads. The park sits on the Ronkonkoma Moraine, which explains its hilly nature and varied terrain. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer in warmer seasons, and a variety of birds like the Eastern Screech Owl and Red-tailed Hawk.

The Walt Whitman Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through a diverse forest landscape that feels both ancient and inviting. You'll walk through sections of soft, sandy earth and mossy patches, surrounded by towering oak, maple, and beech trees. The route gently climbs and descends across the hilly Ronkonkonoma Moraine, leading you to Jayne's Hill, where you can enjoy expansive views over Broad Hollow and beyond.

This easy 2.7-mile (4.4 km) hike, with its modest 172 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete. The trail starts conveniently at Walt Whitman's birthplace, offering ample parking at West Hills County Park. It's a family-friendly and dog-friendly option, though you should be aware that some sections are shared with horses, which can mean uneven ground. Visiting in the cooler seasons often provides the clearest scenic views.

What truly sets this trail apart is its deep connection to American poet Walt Whitman, who drew inspiration from these very landscapes. At the summit of Jayne's Hill, Long Island's highest point, you'll find a boulder inscribed with a quote from his "Leaves of Grass." This trail is a fantastic way to experience a piece of literary history while enjoying a pleasant outdoor adventure, with options to connect to the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail for longer loop options.

The Jaynes Hill loop from West Hills offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through dense woodlands filled with native oak, maple, and hickory trees. As you ascend, the path reveals small clearings perfect for birdwatching, and the forest floor comes alive with wildflowers and ferns in spring. The highlight is undoubtedly the summit of Jaynes Hill, Long Island's highest natural point, where you're treated to expansive views across Suffolk County, and on clear days, even a glimpse of the distant Manhattan skyline.

This easy 4.3-mile (6.9 km) hike, with a modest 298 feet (91 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete. The trailhead is conveniently located within West Hills County Park, which provides ample parking. While the trail is generally accessible, some sections have steps and occasional fallen trees, and it can get muddy after rain, so plan your footwear accordingly. Early mornings or late afternoons are often best to enjoy the tranquility.

Jaynes Hill holds a special place in history, being a source of inspiration for the poet Walt Whitman, who explored these very slopes. A plaque at the summit commemorates his connection to the land, adding a cultural layer to your outdoor experience. The park's location on the Ronkonkoma Moraine also contributes to its unique hilly landscape, making it a distinctive natural feature in Suffolk County.