New Canaan, Connecticut

Top Spots in and near New Canaan

  • Beacon, New York

    Hike the Scofield Ridge Loop

    7.5 mi / 1850 ft gain
    There are some great view points along this route.  Start from the Mount Beacon Park trailhead parking area.  This leads to the Casino Trail (red markers).  The trail climbs steeply to some old ruins of a casino.  Most of what remains is only the brick structure housing the mechanics for a trolle...
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  • New York, New York

    Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir Running Path

    5.0
    1.68 mi / 69 ft gain
    Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir Running Path is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near New York City, New York.
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  • New Windsor, New York

    Jessup/West Ridge Loop via the Sweet Clover Trail

    9.17 mi / 1916 ft gain
    Schunnemunk Mountain State Park is one of my favorite parks.  It offers many trails and possibilities for different loops.  The attraction of Schunnemunk Mountain is the long double ridges running parallel to each other and amazing views in all directions. This hike starts at the Taylor Road par...
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  • Beacon, New York

    Explore Long Dock and Dennings Point Parks

    4.0
    Long Dock and Dennings Point are two of the most popular parks in Beacon, that just so happen to be connected by a train track turned trail. Plenty of parking is available at Long Dock, and its a perfect spot to picnic, launch your kayak into the Hudson, or cast your line hoping to reel in the bi...
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  • New York, New York

    Northwest Central Park Loop

    3.63 mi / 164 ft gain
    The Northwest Central Park Loop in New York City offers a scenic, family-friendly experience through some of the park’s quieter sections. The loop features well-maintained paths, stunning views of the surrounding nature, and landmarks like the Reservoir. It’s perfect for walking, jogging, or ca...
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  • Tuxedo Park, New York

    Backpack Harriman State Park

    4.6
    18 mi / 1200 ft gain
    While the first day is a bit longer and less exciting in terms of frequent landmarks, its a relaxing hike through rocky, wooded, forest among bountiful blueberry bushes and the occasional raspberry bush. Enjoy the isolation on this leg. The second day is packed with frequent and beautiful landmar...
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  • Hamden, Connecticut

    Hike the Tower Trail to the Blue Trail at Sleeping Giant SP

    5.0
    3 mi / 518 ft gain
    Sleeping Giant State Park is a place very close to my heart. I spent 4 years right across the street at Quinnipiac University and have hiked “The Giant” more times then I can count and at all different hours. There are a few different trails you can explore but my favorite one is up to the cliffs...
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  • Hamden, Connecticut

    Hike the Mill River Trail to the Blue Trail at Sleeping Giant SP

    5.0
    3 mi / 518 ft gain
    Since I was a child, I’ve always enjoyed hiking the Giant. As Connecticut parks go, this terrain is some of the most challenging (and unfortunately, the most dangerous) in the state. The actual ridge is approximately 2.75 miles long by 1.75 miles wide, and offers approximately 24 miles of hiking ...
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  • Hamden, Connecticut

    Boulder & Free Climb off the Blue Trail In Sleeping Giant SP

    Sleeping Giant State Park does not just have great hiking, it also has great climbing and bouldering. Pick up the blue trail starting at the backside of the visitor center. This trail climbs pretty steadily but take note that as you hike up the cliff below you is a great spot to checkout for boul...
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  • 608 Ramapo Valley Road, New Jersey

    Hike the Halifax Trail and Ruins in the Ramapo Valley Reservation

    8.25 mi / 500 ft gain
    To start, I recommend coming in the early morning or afternoon, as the parking lot fills up with people hiking, fishing or going for a walk with their family. I usually get my luckiest before 9. This park is as relaxing or exciting as you want to make it. Here is a good map to use/ print out. We ...
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  • Queens, New York

    Gantry Plaza State Park

    5.0
    Nestled along the East River waterfront in Long Island City, Queens, Gantry Plaza State Park offers visitors a breathtaking urban park experience with unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline. This 4-acre historic waterfront park transforms former industrial land into a stunning green space ...
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  • New York, New York

    Top of the Rock

    4.2
    There aren't any mountain peaks to summit in New York City, but the view from the top of the Rockefeller Building is the next best thing. You'll have to pay a few bucks ($29 to be exact) and deal with some tourists but you won't regret your decision once you're looking out over one of the most ic...
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  • Brooklyn, New York

    Kingsland Wildflowers

    4.0
    Kingsland Wildflowers is a rooftop meadow located atop Broadway Stages in Brooklyn’s Greenpoint neighborhood, offering 24,000 square feet of native plants like bee balm, purple aster, and wild strawberries. The green space, a collaboration between Alive Structures, New York City Audubon, and the ...
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  • Cheshire, Connecticut

    Hike to Roaring Brook Falls

    5.0
    1.2 mi / 377 ft gain
    Arriving to the falls, parking is residential but don't worry everyone is friendly. Starting off the hike you will walk past a cool pond where you may be able to see some wildlife. Continuing on, you will follow the marked trail where it will take you further into the woods while gaining elevatio...
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  • New York, New York

    Run the Hudson River Greenway

    4.3
    18 mi / 212 ft gain
    To get in both some sights and a workout, follow the Hudson River Greenway to views of the Statue of Liberty, the Chelsea Piers, and George Washington Bridge, to name a few. This easy-access run is best done in the early morning or early evening, to avoid pedestrian traffic and too much sun. Keep...
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  • Weehawken, New Jersey

    Photograph the NYC Skyline from JFK Boulevard East

    The Big Apple. NYC has arguably the best skyline in the world. So, if you are one of the millions of people visiting wouldn't you want to get some photos of the entire skyline to post on social media and show friend & family? Skip the boat and helicopter tour lines (although a cool experience...
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