The Long Path: Exploring New York’s Hidden 357-Mile Adventure Trail
The Long Path cuts a quiet line across New York’s diverse landscapes, inviting hikers to explore 357 miles of varied terrain from the urban edge of Manhattan to the rural edges near Albany. This trail offers solitude, challenge, and stunning nature for those ready to step off the beaten path.
Trail Tips
Plan Your Water Sources Carefully
Creeks and streams along The Long Path can dry up in late summer, so carry adequate water and learn reliable refill points before setting out.
Use Footwear with Good Ankle Support
Expect uneven, rocky terrain with elevation changes requiring sturdy boots to prevent injury and provide comfort on long stretches.
Time Your Hike for Fall or Spring
Avoid unpredictable winter weather and summer heat; autumn offers vivid foliage while spring brings fresh greenery and flowing streams.
Carry a Detailed Map and Compass
Cell service can be spotty along the trail, so rely on physical navigation tools to stay on course through remote segments.
The Long Path: Exploring New York’s Hidden 357-Mile Adventure Trail
Stretching 357 miles from New York City’s West 72nd Street all the way to Altamont near Albany, The Long Path is a lesser-known but fiercely rewarding long-distance trail. This route threads through rugged hills, dense forests, open meadows, and offers a diverse experience away from the usual crowds. It dares hikers to engage with a landscape that pushes forward with every mile—rivers challenge your footing, rocky ridges demand respect, and wooded sections whisper secrets of the state’s geological past.
Starting from the familiar urban buzz of Manhattan, the trail quickly escapes into the quiet chaos of the Palisades cliffs lining the Hudson River. Here, elevation gains hover between 800 to 1,200 feet in many segments, providing sharp ascents paired with sweeping views where the river shines like a moving mirror.
Moving north, the terrain becomes a shifting puzzle: robust hardwood forests soak up the spring rains, and the Catskill foothills offer intermittent climbs that test endurance without overwhelming. Expect mixed terrain—muddy stretches, rocky steps, soft pine needle carpets—and plan your footwear accordingly. The trail can feel fiercely itself, unyielding yet inviting.
Essential planning includes hydration strategies for stretches where creeks may run thin in summer. Footwear with solid ankle support is critical, especially through the uneven and sometimes steep rock scrambles. Early spring and fall provide the most stable weather, with fall foliage igniting the canopy in vibrant reds and golds.
Camping along the trail is possible, but sites are sparse and sometimes primitive. Make arrangements where you can, and always follow leave-no-trace principles to keep the trail wild and trustworthy for future adventurers.
Whether you’re aiming for a multi-day trek or breaking the trail into manageable day hikes, The Long Path offers a genuine connection to New York’s natural backbone. It’s less polished than the more famous Appalachian Trail but offers a distinct and very real taste of challenge—and reward—for those willing to listen to the land and move with it.
Recommended Gear
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Provides necessary support and grip for rocky, uneven trail conditions across all seasons.
null specific
Hydration System or Water Bottles
Ensures you can stay hydrated through long stretches where natural water sources may fail.
summer specific
Layered Clothing
Helps manage temperature changes from warm days to cool evenings, essential during the variable fall season.
fall specific
Topographic Maps and Compass
Crucial for navigation along remote sections with limited or unreliable GPS coverage.
null specific
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is it to hike the entire Long Path?
The full trail is challenging due to its length and varied terrain. Hikers should be in good physical condition and prepared for multiple days of hiking, with elevations ranging mostly between 800 and 1,200 feet, requiring steady endurance and navigation skills.
Are there campsites along The Long Path?
Yes, campsites exist but are scattered and often primitive. It’s essential to plan ahead and confirm legal and safe camping spots, following Leave No Trace principles to preserve the trail’s natural state.
What is the best time of year to hike The Long Path?
Spring and fall are ideal due to milder temperatures and scenic views. Summer can be hot with some water scarcity, while winter demands advanced preparation and equipment.
Is the trail well-marked and easy to follow?
The Long Path is marked with blue blazes, but some sections can be hard to follow, especially in less trafficked areas. Carrying a good map and compass is highly recommended.
Can beginners attempt this trail?
While day hikes on parts of the trail are accessible to casual hikers, thru-hiking The Long Path is best suited for experienced hikers comfortable with backcountry navigation and endurance.
Are dogs allowed on The Long Path?
Yes, dogs are allowed but must be leashed and controlled, especially in sensitive wildlife areas. Owners should bring plenty of water and be prepared for rugged terrain that may challenge pets.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "Viewpoint atop North Mountain for panoramic views of the Hudson Valley"
- "Quiet glens along the Shawangunk Ridge with minimal foot traffic"
Wildlife
- "White-tailed deer"
- "Eastern wild turkey"
- "Red fox"
- "Occasional black bear sightings in the northern sections"
History
"The Long Path intersects historic native trade routes and Revolutionary War sites, reflecting centuries of human connection to this land."