As leaves change colors across the region, it’s a great time to gather up family and friends and spend a sunny fall afternoon on one of these beautiful, easy hikes. Most of these hikes are under a mile and would be enjoyable for new hikers or seasoned veterans.
Pfeiffer Nature Center Portville, N.Y. Located in Cattaraugus County's Enchanted Mountains, the Pfeiffer Nature Center will help you discover why these mountains are called enchanted. The Nature Center offers more than 600 acres to explore, including 20 acres of rare, old-growth forest with Eastern Hemlock, White Pine, Red and White Oak and more. Come to the Lillibridge Tract for 16 hikes that are under a mile each.
Bear Mountain, Cranberry Lake Wild Forest Clifton, N.Y. The Cranberry Lake region is one of the remote areas remaining in the state, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Bear Mountain offers beautiful views of this spectacularly untouched region. Only 2.4 miles round trip, this mountain is not to be missed.
Finger Lakes Trail, Finger Lakes National Forest Hector, N.Y. Come to the Finger Lakes for the wine, and stay for the beauty of the Finger Lakes National Forest. There are eight day hikes for those of all abilities. Follow a scenic gorge on the 1.2-mile Gorge Trail. Try the .75-mile Ravine Trail and walk through Hemlock and hardwood forests.
Highland Forest Nature Trail Fabius, N.Y. Come see why the Highland Forest is called the "Adirondacks of Central New York." Take the Deep Woods trail for a 1.4-mile hike through a maturing forest or walk the .4 miles along the Hemlock Hollow trail and watch the leaves change.
Thacher State Park Voorheesville, N.Y. Voted number one for best places to take kids in the Capital Region, Thatcher State Park will certainly capture the imagination of youngsters. Take in the scenery of the Hudson Valley with the .9-mile Nature Trail that passes waterfalls, farms, and caves.
Azure Mountain Waverley, N.Y. Find picturesque views of the famous Adirondack peaks and unbroken forest on the top of Azure Mountain. With a few challenging spots along this 1-mile trail, this hike would suitable for new and experienced hikers.
Frick Pond Loop Willowemoc Wild Forest, N.Y. Experience the Catskills region on this loop trail in the Willowemoc Wild Forest. This mile-long trail wraps around Frick Pond and would be a great hike for those of all ages.
Bald Mountain Old Forge, N.Y This family-friendly hike at Bald Mountain in the Adirondacks is just under a mile. The spectacular views at the top will make the 500-foot incline worth it. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic next to the Rondaxe Fire Tower, which sits on its summit.
Mendon Ponds County Park Honeoye Falls, N.Y. Explore the unique glacially created landforms at Mendon Ponds Park, which is just south of Rochester. With 2,500 acres of woodlands, ponds and wetlands, this is the largest Monroe County Park. Try the 1.5-mile West Esker Trail for some great leaf peeping as ash, maple, oak and black cherry trees change colors.
Green Lakes State Park Fayetteville, N.Y. Green Lakes, a classic CNY park, couldn't escape our list. Take a leisurely walk around Green Lake and Round Lake, or try one of the 14 connecting trails that weave through the surrounding forest. With more than 15 miles of trails, this Syracuse favorite will be sure to please.
What’s your favorite place to go hiking? Let us know in the comments.