Hey, HVH fam! It’s Larie here, your go-to guide for all things Hudson Valley, and today, I’m unleashing some doggone great trails for you and your furry friend. Whether you’ve got a pint-sized pupper or a full-on fur missile, these spots north of NYC are perfect for getting your tails on the trail. Get ready to explore the wilds of Westchester, the hills of the Hudson Valley, the grandeur of the Adirondacks, and more with your best four-legged hiking buddy.
Leash Rules and Dog Etiquette
First things first—leash rules. I know, I know, your dog might be the best-behaved pup in the world, but leash laws exist for a reason. On most trails, keeping your dog on a leash isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a rule. This helps protect wildlife, keeps your dog safe from unexpected encounters (like a surprise meeting with a curious skunk), and ensures that everyone, dog owners and non-dog owners alike, can enjoy the trails without a hitch. Always check the specific leash regulations for each trail before heading out, and keep that leash handy even if your dog is allowed off-leash in certain areas.
As for dog etiquette—think of the trail as a shared space. Just like you wouldn’t want to trip over someone else’s picnic, no one wants to step in a surprise left behind by your dog. Always pick up after your pup, no exceptions. Bring plenty of waste bags and dispose of them properly. Also, keep in mind that not everyone loves dogs as much as we do (shocking, I know), so be considerate and give other hikers space. If your dog is off-leash in an area where it's allowed, make sure they have a reliable recall and aren’t harassing wildlife or other trail users.
Now that we’ve got the ground rules covered, let’s get into the fun stuff—where to hike with your dog!
Westchester County
Ward Pound Ridge Reservation (Pound Ridge)
Westchester’s very own slice of the wilderness, Ward Pound Ridge is like the Central Park of dog-friendly hikes—only way bigger and with fewer hot dog vendors. This park sprawls over 4,000 acres, giving you plenty of space to roam. From meadows to streams, there’s enough variety to keep even the most squirrel-obsessed dogs entertained. Oh, and heads up—there’s a parking fee, so bring some cash unless your dog is good at sweet-talking park rangers.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve(Pleasantville)
If your dog enjoys the finer things in life—like sniffing every single leaf on a well-manicured trail—then Rockefeller State Park Preserve is your jam. Picture wide, carriage roads winding through the picturesque countryside, perfect for a leisurely stroll. It's serene, it's scenic, and it’s steeped in Rockefeller history. And with over 140,000 acres, your dog’s nose will be busy for days.
Hudson Valley
Cornish Estate Trail (Cold Spring)
Ever wanted to explore a mysterious, abandoned mansion with your dog? The Cornish Estate Trail offers you a chance to do just that. This 4.5-mile hike takes you past the ruins of a once-glorious estate and gives you killer views of the Hudson River. It’s the perfect mix of history and nature, so you and your dog can bond over your shared love of spooky old buildings.
Black Rock Forest (Cornwall)
Black Rock Forest is like Disneyland for dogs who love a good splash. This nonprofit-run forest has trails that wind through varied ecosystems and lead to refreshing reservoirs—perfect for a quick doggy paddle. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, because nothing ruins a good hike like stepping in a surprise left behind by someone else’s dog.
Capital Region
Peebles Island State Park (Waterford)
Ever tried to hike with river views on one side and historic sites on the other? Peebles Island State Park lets you do just that. Located at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, this park offers easy, scenic trails that are as educational as they are beautiful. It’s perfect for the dog who likes to learn something new on their walks—like the best spots to find goose poop.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve (Albany)
For dogs who dig the desert vibe, Albany Pine Bush Preserve is a must-visit. This unique inland pine barrens ecosystem offers sandy trails and open fields where your dog can frolic and roll to their heart’s content. With over 20 miles of trails, it’s a great spot to burn off some of that puppy energy—or your own.
Adirondacks
Black Bear Mountain (Inlet)
Looking for a hike that will leave both you and your dog feeling like champions? Black Bear Mountain offers a moderately challenging 1.9-mile trail that rewards you with stunning summit views. It’s a bit of a workout, but the sense of accomplishment (and the Instagram photos) will be worth it. Plus, your dog will love the chance to lead the pack up the mountain.
Cascade Mountain(Lake Placid)
This one’s for the serious hikers and their adventure-loving dogs. As one of the Adirondacks’ famous 46 High Peaks, Cascade Mountain is a dog-friendly trail that offers panoramic views from the top. It’s a popular spot, so expect some company, but that just means more dogs for your pup to befriend along the way.
Finger Lakes
Wesley Hill Nature Preserve(Naples)
For those days when you and your dog just want to get lost in the woods, Wesley Hill Nature Preserve is a dream come true. This 5.6-mile trail system takes you through lush forests, past deep gullies, and by a tranquil pond. It’s the perfect place to escape the world for a while and let your dog’s inner explorer run wild—just make sure they don’t actually get lost!
Keuka Outlet Trail (Penn Yan)
Ever wanted to combine your love of history, waterfalls, and dog walks into one epic outing? The Keuka Outlet Trail has you covered. This 6.8-mile trail runs between Keuka and Seneca Lakes, following the route of an old canal and passing by the remains of historic mills. The waterfalls along the way are just icing on the cake—so grab your leash, your dog, and your camera, and hit the trail.
Whether you’re looking to tackle a High Peak or just enjoy a lazy stroll by the river, there’s a trail for every type of dog and dog owner north of NYC. Happy hiking! 🐾
