1. Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve – Lloyd Harbor
This North Shore gem combines history, scenic coastal views, and peaceful wooded trails. With over 1,500 acres, Caumsett is perfect for walking, cycling, or wildlife photography. The well-maintained paths are ideal for both beginners and seasoned trail-goers.
2. Sunken Meadow State Park – Kings Park
Offering panoramic views of the Long Island Sound, Sunken Meadow features a 3/4-mile boardwalk, hilly hiking trails, and picnic areas. The blend of beach and wooded trails makes it a great spot for both exercise and relaxation.
3. Bethpage State Park – Farmingdale
Best known for its golf courses, Bethpage is also a favorite for hiking and biking. The Bethpage Bikeway stretches nearly 14 miles and connects to several other parks, making it ideal for distance riders and joggers.
4. Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve – Merrick
This eco-friendly preserve offers sweeping views of the NYC skyline and Jones Beach. The hilly trail system, fishing piers, and even goats for landscaping make it a unique destination for families and fitness lovers.
5. Hempstead Lake State Park – West Hempstead
With serene walking paths, horseback trails, and kayaking on the lake, this park offers a peaceful escape just a short drive from Nassau’s busy centers. It’s especially popular in fall for its beautiful foliage.
6. Avalon Park and Preserve – Stony Brook
Avalon feels like a secret garden tucked into the North Shore. Its boardwalks, stone pathways, and wildflower meadows offer a peaceful, meditative walking experience. It’s also close to the Stony Brook Village Center for a post-hike coffee or lunch.
7. Cold Spring Harbor State Park – Cold Spring Harbor to Woodbury
This narrow greenway park offers about 7 miles of hiking and biking trails and connects Cold Spring Harbor to Bethpage State Park. It’s a great path for runners, bikers, and anyone looking for a longer scenic route.
8. Connetquot River State Park Preserve – Oakdale
Perfect for nature lovers, this 3,400-acre park features trout streams, dense forests, and over 50 miles of hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing trails. It’s a peaceful retreat and a great place to spot deer or birds.
9. Goldsmith Inlet Park Trail
This 2.8-mile loop trail offers a serene journey through a diverse landscape of forested paths, tranquil wetlands, and sandy stretches along the Long Island Sound. The trail's gentle elevation gain of approximately 150 feet makes it accessible for hikers of all skill levels, providing both a peaceful walk and opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
10. Long Pond Greenbelt – Bridgehampton
This quiet trail system connects coastal ponds, wetlands, and woodlands across the South Fork. It’s one of Long Island’s most ecologically diverse areas, ideal for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
Explore Long Island Living
These parks and trails highlight just how much Long Island has to offer beyond the beaches. Whether you're searching for a place to raise a family, retire, or simply find a weekend adventure, Long Island’s outdoor spaces add priceless quality of life to any community.
If you're thinking about making Long Island your home, The Agency can help you find the perfect place with nature right outside your door.
