Stretching over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, the legendary Appalachian Trail (A.T.) passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the eastern United States. The New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut section offers hikers a unique mix of rugged ridgelines, quiet forests, scenic lakes, and even a few glimpses of city skylines — making it an unforgettable stretch of this iconic long-distance trail.

Whether you’re tackling a day hike, a weekend backpacking trip, or section-hiking your way north, here’s your guide to exploring the A.T. through NY, NJ, and CT.                                                                                                                                       Scenic Nature Escapes Near N.Y.C.       

 Overview of This Section

• New Jersey: ~72 miles
• New York: ~90 miles
• Connecticut: ~51 miles
• Total: ~213 miles through three states!

This section of the trail is easily accessible from NYC and other Northeast cities, making it perfect for short trips and first-time backpackers.

 Highlights of the NY/NJ/CT A.T. Section

 New Jersey

• High Point State Park
  ? Highest point in NJ at 1,803 feet — panoramic views and an easy climb to the High Point Monument.
• Pochuck Boardwalk
  ? A flat, scenic section through marshlands and over the famous suspension bridge — a favorite photo spot!
• Wawayanda State Park
  ? Dense forests, lakes, and beautiful fall foliage.

 New York

• Bear Mountain State Park
  ? One of the most popular A.T. spots — climb to Perkins Memorial Tower for breathtaking views of the Hudson River and NYC skyline on clear days.
• Harriman State Park
  ? Rolling hills, rocky scrambles, and peaceful lakes. The trail here passes through Lemon Squeezer, a narrow rock passage you’ll squeeze through!
• Hudson River Crossing
  ? Walk across the Bear Mountain Bridge — one of the few places the A.T. crosses a major river.

 Connecticut

• Ten Mile River & Bull’s Bridge
  ? Beautiful riverside hiking with historic covered bridges.
• Bear Mountain (CT’s highest peak)
  ? At 2,316 feet, it’s a moderate climb to the summit with big views.
• Sages Ravine
  ? A magical, mossy gorge with waterfalls and swimming holes — one of the most scenic spots on the entire A.T.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

   Disclosure

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   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.

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⛺ Camping & Accommodations

There are numerous shelters, tent sites, and backcountry spots along this stretch of the A.T. You’ll find:

• Lean-tos and shelters roughly every 8–12 miles.
• State park campgrounds for car camping or group sites.
• Towns along the way (like Warwick, NY & Kent, CT) offering hostels, B&Bs, and resupply options.

Pro Tip: Always check local regulations — some areas require permits, and some prohibit campfires.

 Best Time to Visit

✅ Spring (April–June): Wildflowers, rushing streams, fewer bugs.
✅ Summer (July–August): Warm and lively, but expect crowds & heat.
✅ Fall (September–October): Crisp air, colorful foliage — arguably the best time!
✅ Winter: For experienced hikers only — icy conditions can be dangerous.

 Tips for Hiking the NY/NJ/CT Section

✔️ Carry a good map — cell service is unreliable in many areas.
✔️ Bring extra water, especially in summer; some sources can dry up.
✔️ Start early to avoid crowds at popular spots like Bear Mountain.
✔️ Leave No Trace — keep the trail pristine for future hikers!

 Don’t Miss

• Sunrise over the Hudson River from Bear Mountain ?
• A selfie at the NJ High Point Monument ?
• Walking the Pochuck Boardwalk at sunset ?
• Cooling off in Sages Ravine’s waterfalls ?

Why Hike This Section?

The NY/NJ/CT section of the Appalachian Trail is the perfect blend of accessibility and adventure. In just a few days, you can experience ridgeline views, serene forests, historic landmarks, and even small towns full of character.

Whether you’re out for a day hike or aiming to complete all 213 miles through these states, you’ll find this section of the A.T. full of natural beauty, history, and a welcoming hiking community. ?✨

Ready to lace up your boots and hit the trail? The Appalachian Trail is waiting — and this stretch is the perfect place to start your journey. ??