
Looking to trade city noise for forest trails and mountain air? Whether you’re in NYC or nearby, Upstate New York offers some of the most scenic and peaceful outdoor escapes in the Northeast. From tranquil lakes to hidden waterfalls and epic mountain overlooks, here are 8 nature destinations that promise fresh air, solitude, and adventure just a few hours from the city.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This website also contains other affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we trust and believe will enhance your outdoor adventures. Thank you for supporting our work!
![]()
50 Must-Have Water Adventure Items
Discover the best drones and essential accessories to capture breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and adventures across South America perfect for beginners and pros alike!
50 Best Drone Gear & Accessories
Drone Use: Know Before You Fly
Drone regulations vary widely depending on the location. Some parks, natural areas, and landmarks prohibit drones to protect wildlife, visitors, and sensitive environments, while others may allow them with certain restrictions or permits. Always check local, state, and federal rules before flying, respect no-fly zones, and prioritize safety, privacy, and environmental care during your adventure.

1. ?️ Kaaterskill Falls – The Iconic Catskills Escape
One of the most photographed waterfalls in New York, Kaaterskill Falls is a two-tier cascade plunging over 260 feet in total. Located in the heart of the Catskills, this trail is short but steep, rewarding hikers with sweeping views and cool mist in the summer months. The nearby North-South Lake area is perfect for camping, with scenic overlooks like Sunset Rock and Inspiration Point.
? Photo Caption: Kaaterskill Falls tumbling through autumn foliage in the Catskills.

2. ? Watkins Glen State Park – The Gorge That Feels Like a Fairytale
This park is famous for its gorge trail, which passes behind and beneath 19 waterfalls. Stone bridges, winding staircases, and narrow tunnels give this hike a magical, otherworldly feel. It’s best visited in late spring or early fall when water levels are high, and the crowds are lighter. Bring a waterproof jacket — you’ll definitely get misted.
? Photo Caption: A stone bridge above a cascading gorge inside Watkins Glen.

3. ? Letchworth State Park – The Grand Canyon of the East
Carved by the Genesee River, Letchworth features dramatic cliffs and three massive waterfalls framed by lush forests. There are over 60 miles of hiking trails here, plus cabins and campsites for longer stays. Fall foliage here is absolutely stunning, drawing leaf-peepers from across the region.
? Photo Caption: Deep gorges and waterfalls glowing with fall colors at Letchworth.

4. ?️ Adirondack High Peaks – Summit Adventures & Lake Views
If you’re looking for a true wilderness adventure, head to the Adirondacks. With 46 High Peaks, there’s something for every level of hiker. Mount Marcy (New York’s tallest) offers an all-day challenge, while trails like Cascade Mountain give you summit views with a half-day effort. Lake Placid makes a great base with plenty of outdoor shops and gear rental options.
? Photo Caption: Panoramic views from a rocky summit in the High Peaks region.

5. ? Buttermilk Falls State Park – Cascades & Camping Near Ithaca
Located just outside Ithaca, Buttermilk Falls offers accessible nature with a series of stair-stepped waterfalls and shaded trails. There’s a campground inside the park, as well as swimming in the lower falls when lifeguards are on duty. Combine it with a visit to nearby Robert Treman State Park for a waterfall-packed weekend.
? Photo Caption: Gentle cascades flowing through the mossy Buttermilk gorge.

6. ? Green Lakes State Park – Crystal Clear Water Near Syracuse
What makes Green Lakes stand out are its unusually clear, turquoise-colored glacial lakes — something you rarely see in the Northeast. The trails around the lakes are flat and family-friendly, and the park has a beach for summer swimming. It’s also a great stopover if you’re heading between Albany and the Finger Lakes.
? Photo Caption: Shimmering blue-green waters at Green Lakes State Park.

7. ? Minnewaska State Park Preserve – Cliffs, Lakes & Ridge Views
Set along the Shawangunk Ridge, Minnewaska offers dramatic clifftop trails, carriage roads for biking, and quiet lakes perfect for a picnic. It’s less than two hours from NYC and often quieter than nearby Mohonk Preserve. Sunrise hikes to Gertrude’s Nose or Lake Awosting are highly recommended.
? Photo Caption: Sun rising over rocky cliffs and clear lakes at Minnewaska.

8. ? Taughannock Falls – One of the Tallest East of the Rockies
Taughannock Falls plunges 215 feet — higher than Niagara — into a striking rock amphitheater. The flat gorge trail makes it easily accessible, and the overlook above the falls is a favorite for photographers. It’s located in the Finger Lakes region, just a few miles from Cayuga Lake.
? Photo Caption: A sheer waterfall drops into a quiet gorge basin at Taughannock.
9. ? Breakneck Ridge – Challenging Hike with Epic Hudson River Views
Breakneck Ridge is arguably the most iconic—and demanding—day hike in the Hudson Highlands. Located just outside the charming village of Cold Spring, about an hour north of NYC by train, this hike is known for its steep rock scrambles, open ridgelines, and unbeatable views of the Hudson River winding far below.
This is not a hike for beginners — the ascent is steep, and you’ll need to use your hands to climb over boulders and ledges. But the payoff is immediate and spectacular: panoramic views of Storm King Mountain, Bannerman Castle, and the shimmering river stretching south toward the city.
Once you reach the main ridge, you can either turn back for a shorter hike or continue on one of several loops that wind through the woods and connect to nearby trails.
Tips for Breakneck Ridge:
-
Start early — parking is limited, and it gets very busy on weekends.
-
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for the rocky terrain.
-
Bring plenty of water — there’s little shade on the exposed ridge.
-
Be prepared to take your time — the scramble sections can get congested.
? Photo Caption: Hikers making their way up Breakneck Ridge, with the Hudson River glinting below and rugged cliffs rising around them.
10. ? Allegany State Park – New York’s Wildest Wilderness in the West
For a completely different kind of New York escape, head west to Allegany State Park, the largest state park in the state, covering nearly 65,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness. Located on the Pennsylvania border in the Allegheny Mountains, it’s a serene and less-crowded alternative to the Catskills or Adirondacks.
Allegany is divided into two main areas: Red House and Quaker Run. Both offer excellent hiking, camping, and opportunities to spot wildlife like white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and even bald eagles. The park’s rolling hills are dotted with hardwood forests that come alive with color in the fall and offer cool, shady hikes in summer.
You’ll find more than 90 miles of hiking trails, plus mountain biking routes, fishing streams, and quiet lakes for paddling. In the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing take over, and the cabins and lodges provide cozy retreats.
Highlights of Allegany State Park:
-
Visit Thunder Rocks, a cluster of massive boulders perfect for scrambling and exploring.
-
Take a hike to Bear Caves, a natural rock formation that feels like a hidden world.
-
Relax at Red House Lake — great for swimming, boating, and picnicking.
-
Camp at one of the many campgrounds, or rent a rustic cabin deep in the woods.
? Photo Caption: Morning fog drifts through the forested hills of Allegany State Park, with a quiet lake reflecting the golden light.
Explore More Adventure Hubs:
South America Hiking & Gear Hub
NYC Nature Escapes Hub: Weekend Getaways
Canyon Hiking & Camping Hub: Hidden Gems
RV Camping Hub: Best Gear & Destinations
Australia Nature & Adventure Hub
Florida & Georgia Islands
Leave a Reply