Long Island truly has beautiful scenery. Sometimes, when we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life we can forget how amazing the island we live on is. Hiking all over the island helped me appreciate where I came from. I've hiked all of the discussed trails myself, and they are my all time favorites.
Quogue Wildlife Refuge Center (Quogue)
Quogue’s Wildlife Refuge is a safe home to many injured animals that can’t be released into the wilderness. Aside from that, there are moderate to longer hiking trails, ranging from less than a mile to 3 miles. Within the refuge, there is a pond that houses turtles, ducks, fish and birds. Wild chickens and roosters are always roaming around. Right on the pond, at the end of the trail, there is a nature center. On Wednesdays at 9 am there is a yoga class in the room overlooking the water.
Avalon Park and Preserve (Stony Brook)
Avalon offers 5.4 miles of hiking trails. Within one of the trails is a labyrinth, a tool for walking meditation. Aside the labyrinth stands a tree covered in a crochet “tree sweater.” Along the trails, you may see small pieces of crochet decorating the trees. Hidden in the heart of the park is a big, hollow silver ball with a small slit, with the words 'Cartas al cielo" on the front. That means letters to the sky. There are postcards nearby, and you can write a letter and send it to someone in the sky!
Caleb Smith State Park Preserve (Smithtown)
With 8 miles of hiking trails, and 5 ponds within the park, Caleb Smith State Park offers scenic water views and hilly terrain, with plenty of beautiful places to rest.
Sunken Meadow State Park (Kings Park)
At higher elevation than the water, the trails provide an amazing view of the wetlands and the water. There are 5 miles of beautiful trails.
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve (Huntington)
With over 6 miles of trails, there are so many opportunities for incredible beach and water views.
West Hills County Park (Huntington)
West Hills has over 6 miles of trails, and is also home to the highest elevation on Long Island! Walt Whitman used to walk these trails as a boy. The trails are horse friendly, and many horses consider this park home.
Robert Moses State Park (Babylon/Fire Island)
Moses has boardwalk trails as well as a gorgeous, clean beach. Deer are abundant, and it is quite likely you’ll see a few. This park is home to Long Island’s Lighthouse, and you can go inside, check out the museum and learn about the park’s history.
Hecksher State Park (East Islip)
Hecksher is filled with breathtaking, climbable trees. There are also so many playgrounds throughout the park and on the trails that kids will never be bored here! The beach is rocky, but there are so many treasures hidden within the sand. Walking to the end of the beach is completely worth it!
West Meadow Wetlands Reserve
Right along West Meadow beach is a Long Island gem. You can observe the wetlands walking along the open, paved trail. Hidden in the Reserve is a natural spring water “well” with the best water I’ve ever tasted. Throughout the Reserve, you might catch a glimpse of some old, abandoned cottages.
Wherever you go, make sure to be respectful to the environment, and never litter. Most importantly, get out, have fun and enjoy the nature!
