Living in New York City has its perks, but even the most loyal city dweller needs a weekend escape. Fortunately, you don’t need to hop a flight to find peace, fresh air, and stunning views. From mountain hikes and waterfalls to lakeside campgrounds, these 10 scenic spots are all within a day’s drive of NYC — and they’re perfect for your next nature getaway.
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1. Catskill Mountains, NY 
Just 2–3 hours from NYC, the Catskills are a go-to destination for nature lovers. Popular trails include Kaaterskill Falls and Overlook Mountain, while campgrounds like North-South Lake offer scenic stays under the stars.
Great for: Beginner hikes, swimming holes, scenic camping
Photo idea: Kaaterskill Falls or North-South Lake with tents
2. Adirondack Park, NY 
New York’s largest protected natural area, the Adirondacks feature 46 high peaks, quiet lakes, and endless trails. Whether you want to paddle through Saranac Lake or hike Mount Marcy, there’s an adventure for everyone.
Great for: Multi-day camping, mountain treks, canoeing
Photo idea: Autumn foliage, Lake Placid region, or summit views
3. Finger Lakes Region, NY 
Best known for its wineries, the Finger Lakes region is also home to amazing state parks like Watkins Glen and Taughannock Falls. Gorge trails, swimming holes, and waterfall photography await — with campsites throughout the area.
Great for: Waterfalls, scenic drives, lakeside camping
Photo idea: Watkins Glen gorge trail or a lakeside campsite
4. Delaware Water Gap, PA/NJ 
Just 90 minutes from NYC, this cross-state park offers dramatic cliffs, forested hiking trails, and sections of the Appalachian Trail. Paddle the Delaware River or hike Mount Tammany for panoramic views.
Great for: River adventures, moderate hiking, nature photography
Photo idea: Overlook at Mount Tammany or river kayaks
5. Appalachian Trail (NY/NJ/CT Section)
Whether you’re tackling a full section or just a day hike, the AT offers rugged escapes right from NYC’s backyard. Start near Bear Mountain or hike through Clarence Fahnestock State Park for a scenic escape close to home.
Great for: Backpacking, quick hikes, trail lovers
Photo idea: AT trail markers, wooden bridges, or scenic overlooks
6. Minnewaska State Park Preserve, NY 
Just 2 hours north in the Shawangunk Mountains, this preserve features waterfalls, cliffs, and the iconic Lake Minnewaska. You’ll find picnic areas, swim spots, and hiking trails with jaw-dropping views.
Great for: Day trips, swimming, family-friendly hikes
Photo idea: Lake Minnewaska cliffs or waterfall views
7. Letchworth State Park, NY 
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this stunning park features a gorge carved by the Genesee River, with 3 major waterfalls and scenic bridges. Hiking, rafting, and camping are all available here.
Great for: Road trips, waterfall views, nature lovers
Photo idea: Middle Falls with mist or canyon overlook
8. Harriman State Park, NY 
Only an hour from NYC, Harriman is one of the state’s most accessible getaways. It has over 200 miles of hiking trails, scenic lakes like Lake Sebago, and rustic camping options. Great for a spontaneous escape.
Great for: Quick nature breaks, forest hikes, lake views
Photo idea: Trail through the woods, lakeside reflection shots
9. Bash Bish Falls, MA/NY Border 
This dramatic waterfall is just over 2 hours away, nestled where New York meets Massachusetts. A short hike leads to a powerful cascade that drops 60 feet into a rock basin. Stunning in any season.
Great for: Short hikes, nature photos, hidden gem seekers
Photo idea: Wide shot of the falls with greenery
10. Green Mountains, Vermont 
A longer weekend drive, but totally worth it. The Green Mountains are known for quiet campsites, wooded trails, and postcard-worthy views. Try the Long Trail or head to Green Mountain National Forest for a deeper nature experience.
Great for: Long weekends, serious campers, foliage drives
Photo idea: Mountain cabins, trail ridge views, or fall color shots
Ready to Escape the City?
Planning more getaways near the city? Check out our full NYC Nature Escape Mini
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Whether you’re craving a quiet forest hike, a lakeside sunrise, or a weekend by a roaring waterfall, these 10 scenic getaways offer the perfect excuse to unplug and reconnect with nature. All just a short drive from NYC, each spot brings its own kind of magic — and whether you’re camping, hiking, or just exploring, the journey starts the moment you leave the city behind. 🗌️
Pack your gear, grab your camera, and make your next weekend one to remember. 🎕️
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