Albany County

Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

 All Albany ListingsAlbany

 Albany Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12205, Pine Bush, nature preserve, trails, Albany, NY, Discovery Center, Things To Do, Activities for children, Biking, Bird Watching, Butterfly Watching, Educational Programs, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Nature Study, Winter Activities | Albany Albany Pine Bush Preserve

518-456-0655
  Albany Pine Bush Preserve, 3,200-acres in size, is a nature preserve offering more than 18 miles of trails, located at 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205 in Albany County.
    GPS Coordinates: 42.718694, -73.864771
From Pine Bush: "Picture a wide open landscape filled with dense shrubs, scattered pitch pines, openings of prairie grass and wildflowers all rooted in sweeping sand dunes. This is the Albany Pine Bush, also known as an inland pine barrens ecosystem. One of the largest of only about 20 other inland pine barrens worldwide, the Albany Pine Bush is globally rare. It was formed toward the end of the last Ice Age 12,000–15,000 years ago. At this time a large glacial lake stretched from present day Glens Falls, NY to Newburgh, NY. Over time, the water drained leaving behind the sandy deposits of the lake floor. These sandy soils now support the Albany Pine Bush ecosystem. A fraction of the original Albany Pine Bush ecosystem still survives today. This remaining area is divided by interstate highways, shopping malls, and industrial parks, and is threatened by further habitat loss." Albany Pine Bush Preserve | Albany  website and more . . .

12208, ice skating in cold weather, Albany, NY, Buckingham Pond | Albany Buckingham Pond

518-434-5699
  Buckingham Pond, offering outdoor ice skating and ice-hockey, is located at Colonial Ave. and Berkshire Blvd., Albany, NY 12208 in Albany County.
    Check for signs prohibiting skating.
About Buckingham Pond: "Buckingham Pond is a large pond (lake) in uptown Albany between Western Ave. and New Scotland Ave. Skating is subject to conditions and weather. The city periodically checks the ice on Buckingham Pond to see if it's safe to skate. DGS even clears snow from the ice now and then (as do people from the neighborhood). As long as there is no sign prohibiting it, the pond is open for skating. Skating after dark is not permitted." Buckingham Pond | Albany  more . . .

12207, Corning Preserve Ramp, Jennings Landing, 15-acre landscaped waterfront, park, entertainment venue, Hudson River in Downtown Albany, Bike or hike along the multi-use Trail, live music, boating and fishing, Things To Do, Alive at Five FREE Concert | Albany Corning Preserve

518-434-2489
  Albany Corning Preserve and Jennings Landing is located along the Hudson River at Albany, NY 12207 in Albany County. The Corning Preserve Ramp is at I-787. Jennings Landing is located at 1 Quay Street. Corning  Preserve | Albany  more . . .

12207, Albany Corning Preserve, Albany, NY, Amphitheatre, events, festivals, launch for boats and kayaks, playground, picnic areas, restaurant for dining, Things To Do, Bike Trails, Boat Launch, Fishing, Playground, wheelchair accessible, restaurant | Albany Jennings Landing at The Corning Preserve

  Jennings Landing at Albany Corning Preserve is located along the Hudson River at 1 Quay Street, Albany, NY 12207 in Albany County. Jennings Landing at the Corning Preserve is home to an 1,000-seat Amphitheatre which hosts events from Spring through Fall. Jennings Landing at The Corning Preserve | Albany  more . . .

Mohawk Trail Bikeway, Niskayuna, Colonie, Cohoes, Watervliet, along the Hudson River to the Corning Preserve in the City of Albany, Things To Do at Mohawk Trail Bikeway, Biking, Birders, Hiking, Jogging, Nature Trail, Photographers, Skating | Albany Mohawk-Hudson Bike Path

518-783-2760
  The Mohawk Trail Bikeway, travels eastward along the Mohawk River from the Town of Niskayuna, through Colonie, Cohoes, and Watervliet, and along the Hudson River to the Corning Preserve in the City of Albany.

"The first leg of the Mohawk Trail Bikeway, a 5.5 mile section constructed on the abandoned New York Central Railroad bed, stretches along the Mohawk River westward from the Town Park to the Niskayuna town line. Locally, bicycling enthusiasts can travel eastward along the Mohawk River from the Town of Niskayuna, through Colonie, Cohoes, and Watervliet, and along the Hudson River to the Corning Preserve in the City of Albany.Historically, Colonie's Bike Path is the old right-of-way of the former Troy-Schenectady Rail-road. It was primarily a passenger line but was also a hauler of freight, such as straw, ice, and sugar beets from nearby farms. Just beyond the Niskayuna Town Line, about .3 of a mile, is the old Railroad Station which the Shakers helped to build so they could ship their brooms, seeds, canned goods and agricultural products across the country. Today, the path is used every season by joggers, bikers, walkers, skaters, birders, photographers, and nature lovers." Mohawk-Hudson Bike Path | Albany  website and more . . .

Mohawk-Hudson, Bike/Hike Trail, biking, hiking, walking trail, Things To Do, Bike/Hike Trail, Albany,Biking,Bird Watching,Churches,Educational,Hiking /Walking,Historic Mansions and Sites,
Museums,Nature Trail,Scenic,Skating,Water Falls | Albany Mohawk-Hudson Bike/Hike Trail - Albany to Cohoes Section

518-434-5699
  Mohawk-Hudson Bike/Hike Trail - Albany to Cohoes Section, offering a biking, hiking and walking trail is located north of Boat Launch At Huson River in Albany County.

For map and source of information visit D&H Canal Heritage Alliance

"If it were not for a few vantage points along the trail overlooking the City of Cohoes, you would be unaware of traveling through the river city at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers. Side trips to the historic mills, Cohoes Falls overlook, and other historic sites are enjoyable and educational. Mohawk-Hudson Bike/Hike Trail - Albany to Cohoes Section | Albany  more . . .

12206, Lake Preserve, Albany, NY, largest rural preserve in the City of Albany, largest urban parks, Things To Do, Biking, Bird Watching, Community Garden, Dog Park, Fishing, Hiking, Winter Activities, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing | Albany Tivoli Lake Preserve

518-434-5699
  Tivoli Lake Preserve, 80-acres in size, is located at Livingston Ave. and Judson Street, Albany, NY 12206 in the Capital District. Tivoli Preserve is the largest rural preserve in the City of Albany; boasting one of the largest urban parks in the State, after Central Park in Manhattan and Tivoli Lake Preserve,

From Albany: "Located along the North side of Albany, close to the West Hill and Arbor Hill neighborhoods, this 80-acre park was established in 1975 by Mayor Erastus Corning II and the City of Albany's Common Council. The Tivoli Lake Preserve is home to many natural attractions. This includes a variety of different wildflower and animal species, trails for walking and running, and a lake for fishing and observing wildlife. The Patroon Creek, which is approximately 7 miles long, also flows through the Preserve." Tivoli Lake Preserve | Albany  website and more . . .

12203, park, Albany, NY, site seeing, bird watching, annual Tulip Festival, Things to Do in Washington Park, Bike paths, Birding, Concerts and Events, Fishing, Lakehouse amphitheatre, Picnicking, Playground, Statues & Monuments, Stocked pond | Albany Washington Park

518-434-4524
  Washington Park, 84-acres in size, offering picnicking, fishing, festivals, concerts and events, is located at 35 Willett Street at State Street, Albany, NY 12210 in the Capital District.

"Albany New York is a haven for outdoor activity, including strolling, jogging, picnicking, fishing, site seeing, bird watching, you name it. The park is also a year round hotspot for many popular special events, displays and concerts. Washington Park is among the most beautifully sculpted and well-maintained parks in the Capital Region. It contains over 100 species of trees, including intriguing bonsai trees as well as gigantic oaks. The annual Tulip Festival, one of Albany’s most celebrated and well-known events, finds its home each year in Washington Park." Washington Park | Albany  website and more . . .
 All Albany County ListingsAlbany

 Albany County Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

Hudson Highlands, Hudson River is an estuary, things to do in the Hudson Highlands, outdoor activities, fishing, boating, hiking, hike, Hikes, Things to Do, Birding, Bird Watching, Boat Rentals, Boating, Fishing, Hiking Trails, Historic Places | Albany Hudson Highlands

845-225-7207
  Click to enlarge photo of the Hudson Highlands.

Click to enlarge photo of the Hudson Highlands The sign reads:
"For much of its 315-mile course, the Hudson River flows straight and broad. But at the Highlands, the Appalachian mountain chain intersects the river to create a fifteen mile stretch of rugged, mountainous landscape. This area contains the river's narrowest and deepest points, as well as its fastest currents. The Hudson River is an estuary, a mixture of salt and freshwater, and the saltwater line extends just north of Beacon. The River is tidal all the way up to the Troy Dam above Albany." Hudson Highlands | Albany  website and more . . .

Long Path Trail 27 - 31: Hiking / Biking Northern Catskills

  Long Path Trail 27 - 31: Hiking / Biking Northern Catskills

"As the Long Path heads west and then north, the tall mountains of the Catskills are soon left behind; they become lower and lower until they are mere hills standing above the plain. Much of the trail now parallels the Schoharie Valley, an important route into the Catskills from points north. Early Dutch settlers made their homes here; there are many reminders of their past in the names of the places one passes. A major feature of the area is the reservoir complex maintained by the New York State Power Authority. In addition to hydroelectric power, the Schoharie Reservoir is a member of the great Catskill water reservoirs that supply distant New York City with clean drinking water." Long Path Trail 27 - 31:  Hiking / Biking Northern Catskills | Albany  more . . .

Long Path Trail 32 - 36: Hiking / Biking Capital District

  Long Path Trail 32 - 36: Hiking / Biking Capital District

"These northern sections of the Long Path slope down from the edge of the Catskills into the Mohawk River Valley. The hills of the western sections give way to gentle rises and falls shaped by glaciers and water punctuated by sharp cliffs of escarpments formed by tilted rock layers. Most of the lands have been settled for a long time and have remained productive farm or forest. Much of the trail passes through nature that has been coerced by civilization to behave in certain ways, either by being farmed for generations, or used as a managed forest for the supply of lumber." Long Path Trail 32 - 36:  Hiking / Biking Capital District | Albany  more . . .
 All Altamont ListingsAlbany

 Altamont Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12009, Park, playground, basketball, picnic tables, playground, swimming, tennis, hiking trails, Altamont, NY, Things To Do at Bozenkill Park, Baseball Diamond, Basketball Court, 
Pavilions, Picnicking, Swimming Pool | Albany Bozenkill Park

518-861-8554
  Bozenkill Park, 30-acres in size, offering a playground, basketball, pavilions, picnic tables, playground, swimming, tennis, hiking trails and more, is located at 6374 Gun Club Road, Altamont, NY 12009 in Albany County.

From Altamont Village: "All Camp, Swim and Water Aerobic registrations may be mailed to the Altamont Village Offices, Camp Program, PO Box 643, Altamont NY 12009. They can also be dropped off at the Village Offices, 115 Main Street, Altamont, NY 12009 during regular business hours or placed in the secure drop box by main entrance. They must be filled out completely and signed where applicable." Bozenkill Park | Albany  website and more . . .
 All Cohoes ListingsAlbany

 Cohoes Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

Trail, north of Albany, nearby shops and restaurants, farmers market, highlight of the trail, Van Schaick Mansion, Things to Do at Black Bridge Trail, Biking, Hiking / Walking, Historic Site, Winter Activities, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing | Albany Black Bridge Trail - Rails to Trails

  The Black Bridge Trail connects the communities of Waterford, Cohoes, and Green Island just north of Albany in eastern New York. As it parallels Delaware Avenue, it is sometimes referred to as the Delaware Avenue Trail. The trail was completed in 2011 and its centerpiece was the rehabilitation of the former Delaware & Hudson Railroad Bridge, built in the 1890s, that spans the Mohawk River.

Rails to Trails - Black Bridge Trail
Distance: 2.1 miles
Difficulty: Easy, good for small children
Trail surface: Asphalt Black Bridge Trail - Rails to Trails | Albany  website and more . . .

12047, Mohawk River Park, Pool, playground, playing fields, basketball courts, Cohoes, NY, Albany County, Things To Do, Bath House, Cross-country Ski Trails, Nature Trails, Tennis Courts, Pavilions, Picnic Facilities, Playground, Pool, Training pool | Albany Colonie Mohawk River Park and Pool

518-783-2760
  Colonie Mohawk River Park and Pool, a 160-acre park, offering a playground, playing fields, basketball courts, and more activities, is located at 71 Schermerhorn Road, Cohoes, NY 12047 in Albany County.

About Colonie Mohawk River Park and Pool: "This park and pool was opened in the Summer of 1967 and is located along the Mohawk River, approximately 2.5 miles north of the Latham Traffic Circle. The 160 acre park contains an Olympic size pool with diving area, training pool, bath house, two pavilions, picnic facilities, tennis courts, playground equipment, Town Pool nature trails, covered bridge, and cross-country ski trails. It also has five softball fields, and a football field - home to Latham Lassies Softball and North Colonie Pop Warner Football. Colonie Mohawk River Park and Pool | Albany  website and more . . .

Fall View Park - Cohoes

  Falls View Park, 4-acres in size, is located at 231-341 North Mohawk Street, Cohoes, NY 12047 in Albany County.

"Unveiled on August 21, 2008, Falls View Park has become a point of pride for the city of Cohoes. The four-acre park is located adjacent to the Brookfield’s School Street Hydroelectric Plant on North Mohawk Street and offers a spectacular view of the roaring Cohoes Falls. The meaning of the word “Cohoes” is debatable, but many seem to believe that Cohoes means “the place of the falling canoe. Fall View Park - Cohoes | Albany  website and more . . .
 All Delmar ListingsAlbany

 Delmar Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12054, activities, family, Delmar, NY, pool complex, tennis and basketball courts, pavilions, fitness trail, playing fields, volleyball courts, shuffleboard, a dog park, playground, ice skating rink, sledding hill, cross country skiing, snowmobiling | Albany Elm Avenue Park

518-439-4955
  Elm Avenue Park, offers summer and winter activities for the whole family, including the dog; is located at 445 Delaware Ave., Delmar, NY 12054, Albany County.

From Town of Bethlehem: "The town's largest park is located on Elm Avenue, one-fourth mile south of the Delmar bypass (Route 32). The park includes a pool complex, tennis and basketball courts, pavilions, fitness trail, playing fields, volleyball courts, shuffleboard, a dog park, and a playground. The basketball courts and four tennis courts are lit at night beginning in late May until late October. Winter facilities include a large ice skating rink, sledding hill, cross country skiing, and an area for snowmobiling. Elm Avenue Park | Albany  website and more . . .

Environmental Education Center, Delmar, NY, living museum, Boating, Camp on DEC Campgrounds, Fishing, 
Hiking, Nature and Animal Study, Hunting, Skiing | Albany Five Rivers Environmental Education Center

518-475-0291
  Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 450-acres in size, offering 10 miles of trails that are easy to moderate, is located at 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY in Albany County.

Five Rivers is a living museum comprising over 450 acres of broad fields, towering forests, and tranquil wetlands. Five Rivers offers people of all ages a rich variety of guided and self-guided opportunities to encounter nature directly. Stimulating interpretive programs and guided school lessons promote awareness, knowledge and appreciation of New York State's environment year 'round. With over 10 miles of trails for self-guided exploration, Five Rivers fosters discovery, spiritual refreshment and physical fitness through wholesome outdoor recreation. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center | Albany  website and more . . .

12054, Preserve, Delmar, NY, directions and more information about the Normans Kill Preserve, Things To Do at Normans Kill Preserve, Bird Watching, Dog Park, Hiking / Walking Trails, Scenic Views, Viewing Benches | Albany Normans Kill Preserve

518-434-5699
  Normans Kill Preserve, 46-acres in size, is located at Normans Kill Preserve East, 261-403 Delaware Ave., Delmar, NY 12054 in Albany County.

From Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy: "The Normans Kill Preserves consist of three parcels that were obtained from Albany County in 2005 because of non-payment of taxes. The three parcels total 46 acres. They are on both sides of the year-2000 Delaware Avenue landslide; and include over a half-mile of the frontage on the Normans Kill in an area directly across from the City of Albany’s Stevens Farm." Normans Kill Preserve | Albany  website and more . . .
 All East Berne ListingsAlbany

 East Berne Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12059, Hudson Valley, Helderberg Escarpment, camping ground, wooded campsites, sandy beach, fishing areas, Things to Do, Boat Launches, Boat Rentals, Campsites, Fishing, Hiking, Nature Trails, Picnic Tables, Playgrounds, Winter Fun, Cross-County Skiing | Albany Thompson's Lake Campground

518-872-1674
  Thompson's Lake Campground in Thacher State Park is located at 68 Thompsons Lake Road, East Berne NY 12059, Albany in the Hudson Valley.

"Thompson's Lake Campground, nestled in the mountains just four miles from the Helderberg Escarpment, is a popular camping ground and recreation area. Conveniently located within Thacher State Park, this campground offers 140 wooded campsites and is comprised of a sandy beach, mixed hardwood and conifer forests, limestone outcroppings and open fields. Recreational opportunities include a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, a playing field, swingsets, carry-in boat access, rental row boats, fishing areas, and nature trails. Interpretive and recreational programs are offered for campers throughout the summer. During the winter, visitors can cross-country ski and ice fish. Thompson's Lake Campground | Albany  website and more . . .
 All Latham ListingsAlbany

 Latham Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12110, Landing Park, Latham, NY, Albany County, Mohawk Riverside Park, newest park, 12.3-acre passive park, Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Path, download park map, Things To Do at Mohawk Riverside Landing Park, 
Picnic Tables, Restrooms, Scenic Views | Albany Mohawk Riverside Landing Park

518-783-2760
  The Mohawk Riverside Landing Park, 12.3-acres in size, is located at 4071 River Road, Latham, NY 12110 in Albany County.

From Mohawk Riverside Park: "Colonie's newest park, Mohawk Riverside Landing Park, is located on River Road in Latham near the Niskayuna border. Constructed in 2013, this peaceful, 12.3-acre passive park connects to the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Path and features scenic views, picnic tables, and restrooms. The park was built by the Town at the site of the former Latham Water Treatment Plant, which had been vacant for decades. Following demolition of the plant, the Town repurposed the site as a park, with new landscaping, plantings, trees, and parking." Mohawk Riverside Landing Park | Albany  website and more . . .
 All Loudonville ListingsAlbany

 Loudonville Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12211, Park, playground, playing fields, basketball courts, Loudonville, NY, farmer's market, biking, hiking and walking trails, nature walks, ice skating, Things to Do at Crossings of Colonie, Picnicking | Albany Crossings of Colonie Park

518-438-5741
  The Crossings of Colonie, a 130-acre passive park, offering playground, playing fields, and basketball courts, is located at 580 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville, NY 12211 in Albany County.

About Crossings of Colonie: "Welcome to The Crossings. Whether you are a town resident looking for an extraordinary setting in which to walk, bike, fly a kite or enjoy a relaxing picnic with friends or family, or a local company seeking a tranquil, yet convenient location to hold an important business meeting, The Crossings of Colonie has it all. Situated in the heart of Colonie just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Wolf Road, the 130 acre passive park features a pond, acres of meadows, marshy wetlands and extensive wooded and wildflower areas - all of which are connected by 6.5 miles of multiuse trails for walking, running, biking and in-line skating that wind across the natural landscape. The Crossings of Colonie is a place that must be visited and explored to truly appreciate its peacefulness, diversity and beauty." Crossings of Colonie Park | Albany  website and more . . .
 All Voorheesville ListingsAlbany

 Voorheesville Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12186, Indian Ladder Trail, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and snowmobiling, Things to Do, Biking, Hunting, Nature Trails, Picnic Tables,  Playground, Playing Fields, Winter Activities, Cross-County Skiing | Albany John Boyd Thacher State Park

518-872-1237
  Thacher State Park aka John Boyd Thacher State Park, is located at 1 Hailes Cave Road, Voorheesville, NY 12186 in Albany County and the Capital District of New York.

"Thacher State Park is situated along the Helderberg Escarpment, one of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world. Even as it safeguards six miles of limestone cliff-face, rock-strewn slopes, woodland and open fields, the park provides a marvelous panorama of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondack and Green Mountains. The park has volleyball courts, playgrounds, ball fields and numerous picnic areas with nine shelters that can be reserved. Interpretive programs are offered year-round, including guided tours of the famous Indian Ladder Trail. There are over 25 additional miles of trails for summer hiking and mountain biking, and winter cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and snowmobiling. John Boyd Thacher State Park | Albany  website and more . . .
 All Watervliet ListingsAlbany

 Watervliet Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12189, Cultural Park, Watervliet, NY, Albany County, rich in local history, educational resource for student and teachers, reenactments of different periods of history, Things To Do, Biking, Skating, 
Walking | Albany Schuyler Flatts Cultural Park

518-783-2760
  Schuyler Flatts Cultural Park, 43-acres in size, is located at 595 Broadway, Watervliet, NY 12189 in Albany County.

From Schuyler Flatts Cultural Park: "The Schuyler Flatts Cultural Park has recently opened for public use. The park is located in Menands, off of Rt. 32, between the Village of Menands and the City of Watervliet. This site was selected for the park, as it is rich in local history.The park is a 43-acre site that is maintained by the Parks and Recreation Department. It is expected that this site will be used as an educational resource for student and teachers. The open fields within the park will serve as areas for reenactments of different periods of history that occurred at the Flatts." Schuyler Flatts Cultural Park | Albany  website and more . . .

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Places to Hike | Hiking Trails
Albany County
Hudson River Valley

Find up-to-date list of the best places to hike in Albany County, New York. Hiking trails are listed by town within the county of Albany in the Hudson Valley. Find excellent hiking trails in Albany for the beginning, intermediate, and experienced hiker.

Pack plenty of water, snacks, and your hiking gear, and find the best places to hike in Albany County. Experience the thrill of a challenging hike; or for beginners, the satisfying feeling of spending a day outdoors surrounded by nature.

Although hiking and walking may appear to be the same activity; hiking usually refers to the experience of walking on trails and paths away from the noise and pollution of an urban area. Trails are often surrounded by clean air, trees, the sounds of birds and the wonderful breadth of nature. In contrast, you can walk just about anywhere, including a nearby village or town such as Hunter, New York.

Hiking with Kids
Hiking is considered one of the best activities for kids. Most kids will enjoy a hike. When you're in the planning phase of deciding the paths and trails where you and your child will hike, let the child's ability guide you. Some kids are more active and have more energy than other children. Let the age of the child and each individual child's ability to walk distances be your guide.

The benefits of hiking with kids are many. Hiking allows you to share an experience or adventure with your child where you can discover nature and a healthy outdoor environment. Learn about birds, small animals, wild flowers, trees, and more about the natural world around us. You can work together with your child to map out and determine the route that best suits you and your child's ability. In addition to the many benefits listed above, is the fact that hiking is good for your mental and physical health and is a low-cost activity that is often free. A hike is within reach of most people that are reasonably healthy, regardless of financial circumstances.

Involve your child in the planning stages of a hike. Select a trail together, and then create a simple map that your child can read while on the trail. You can also teach the child how to read trail markers. If your child is not initially interested in hiking, you may want to reward your child at the end of a hike for helping to find the trail markers and the way forward or back to home base. This added incentive may encourage your child toward becoming a dedicated and experienced hiker.

During the preparation phase of the hike, give children a list of hiking essentials and let them pack their own backpack. The backpack should include gear similar to your own such as a whistle, rainwear, compass, and first-aid kit. In addition to involving the children in "the adventure of hiking" they will feel grownup and responsible as you work together to make the hike a success.

Before embarking on your adventure, assemble adequate supplies, including plenty of water, healthy snacks that your child enjoys, and a map that your child can read. Involve the kids in decisions regarding where to hike as you would involve another adult. Here are some suggestions toward building a successful hiking experience with kids:

  • Invite a friend of your child so that they can share the adventure together; as we know, "Grownups can get boring."

  • Find a trail that also includes an activity the kids enjoy at the end of the hike.
  • Pack protein snacks that are good for the kids and that they enjoy eating.

  • In cool weather, pack warm dry clothes and backup clothing.

  • The most important thing to remember is that hiking should be fun. Don't stress if you cannot complete your hike, or if it starts to rain, or if it's too hot. Just enjoy the day together. These memories will last a lifetime for both you and your children.


    The upper-Hudson Valley offers hiking for all levels of hikers at Hiking in Albany County. The beginning, intermediate, and advanced hiker can find places to hike and trails that are suitable for their level of expertise. Check for places to hike in Albany.
    Hiking trails can vary in difficulty and in the time it takes to hike a trail. Hikes can take you across flat fields requiring less stamina or on hiking paths along mountain ranges, requiring that the hiker is in excellent health and has good stamina and endurance.

    A hike can take only an hour or take several months involving camping equipment and gear. Although hiking paths vary in difficulty, it is believed by most that hiking is good for your physical and mental health as well as your spirit. Many hiking paths are located in large parks or forest preserves such as Catskill Forest Preserve offering many challenging hikes. Regardless of your skill level, all hikers can benefit from a natural environment that allows you to breath-in fresh air, listen to the sounds of nature, the singing of birds, and the sounds of small animals running about.

    Photographers, be sure to bring your camera as hiking trails often run through scenic landscapes offering great photo opportunities. Before starting your first hike, review essentials for hiking.

    Essentials for Hiking Safety

    Tips for Safe Hiking.



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