When the hustle and bustle of New York City starts to feel overwhelming, sometimes the best medicine is to step away—just far enough to breathe in fresh air, stretch your legs on scenic trails, and indulge in good food and friendly company. Luckily, you don’t have to venture far to find that sweet spot.
Nestled along the Hudson River in Rockland County, Nyack is a charming riverside town that perfectly blends outdoor adventure with small-town hospitality. It’s close enough to the city for a quick escape yet far enough to feel like you’ve truly left it all behind. Whether you’re an avid hiker looking to log some serious miles or a weekend wanderer who enjoys pairing trails with great meals and cozy accommodations, Nyack delivers.
In this guide, we’ve crafted the perfect 2-day itinerary for a hiker’s weekend in Nyack. Consider it your neighborly invitation to explore the Hudson Valley’s trails, taste the town’s culinary delights, and soak in the relaxed, riverside atmosphere.
Nyack’s appeal lies in its balance. On one hand, it’s surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Hudson Valley: the steep cliffs of Hook Mountain, the riverside paths of Nyack Beach State Park, and family-friendly jaunts like Buttermilk Falls. On the other hand, the town itself brims with cozy cafés, vibrant restaurants, boutique shops, and warm community spirit.
For New Yorkers, the logistics couldn’t be easier. By car, Nyack is about 45 minutes to an hour from Manhattan, depending on traffic. Public transit is also an option, with buses and trains connecting the city to nearby hubs, from which a short ride-share or local bus brings you into town.
In short: Nyack is the perfect blend of outdoor exploration and small-town comfort, tailor-made for a weekend getaway.
Start your journey early on Saturday morning. Leave the city with your hiking gear packed and your weekend spirit intact. If you’re driving, take I-87 or the Palisades Parkway north. You’ll cross the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge (formerly the Tappan Zee), which itself offers stunning views of the Hudson River as you near your destination.
Once you arrive, drop your bags at your chosen accommodations. From boutique inns to charming Airbnbs, Nyack offers options that suit a variety of preferences. For hikers, a stay close to downtown keeps you within walking distance of both good food and the trailheads that anchor this itinerary.
Kick off your hiking weekend with one of the signature trails of the Hudson Valley: the Nyack Beach to Hook Mountain loop.
Trail Info: Moderate difficulty • ~5.8 miles • About 2.5–3 hours
Highlights: Sweeping Hudson River views, rugged cliffs, diverse terrain
Begin at Nyack Beach State Park, where the flat riverfront trail makes for a peaceful warmup. From there, the path climbs toward Hook Mountain, rewarding you with panoramic views of the river and the Palisades cliffs. It’s a trail that feels both invigorating and accessible, perfect for setting the tone for your weekend.
Bring water and a snack, but don’t fill up too much—you’ll want to save room for a hearty lunch back in town.
After your morning adventure, it’s time to recharge. Luckily, downtown Nyack is brimming with options. Depending on your craving, here are a few local favorites:
The Breakfast & Burger Club – Classic American comfort food with a small-town feel, perfect if you’re craving something substantial.
Bangkok Station – Flavor-packed Thai cuisine, offering a fresh and energizing way to refuel.
DPNB Pasta & Provisions – Handmade pasta that hits the spot after a long hike.
Wherever you land, you’ll find the kind of warm, neighborly service that Nyack is known for.
After a bit of rest (or a quick nap), head back out to catch the evening glow along the river. A shorter stroll—such as the Raymond G. Esposito Trail—offers an easy, flat route with serene views. This trail is especially beautiful around golden hour, when the light reflects off the Hudson in soft hues.
Dinner options abound:
Casa del Sol – Bright, welcoming, and lively, serving Mexican-inspired fare with great cocktails.
Salonniere Kitchen & Coffee Bar – Known for its seasonal, locally inspired menu in a cozy setting.
Cap off the evening with dessert at Tree of Chocolate, where you can treat yourself to handmade confections before turning in for the night.
On Sunday, start your day with a lighter but equally rewarding hike. The Buttermilk Falls Orange & White Loop is a local gem.
Trail Info: Moderate difficulty • ~2.1 miles • About 1 hour
Highlights: Charming waterfall, peaceful forested setting
This short hike is ideal for a second-day adventure: it gets you moving without overexertion, leaving plenty of energy for the rest of the day. The falls themselves make a perfect photo stop, and the surrounding woods provide a refreshing sense of calm.
Brunch is practically a tradition after a Sunday morning hike, and Nyack offers some stellar spots:
Art Café of Nyack – A community favorite for Mediterranean-inspired dishes and excellent coffee.
Corner of Ukraine – Homestyle cooking with flavors you won’t find everywhere else.
Scott & Joe Gourmet Cheese Shop – Ideal for picking up fresh provisions if you’d like to enjoy a picnic before heading home.
Brunch in Nyack isn’t just about food—it’s about slowing down and enjoying the vibe of a community that truly values good company and good flavors.
Before you head back to the city, give yourself time to savor Nyack a bit more. Browse the local shops, enjoy a quiet coffee, or simply sit by the Hudson and take in the views. If you’re up for one more short adventure, the Rockland Lake loop trail offers an easy, scenic walk that pairs well with reflection before departure.
Pack up your things, wave goodbye to the friendly streets of Nyack, and head back to the city refreshed, recharged, and ready for the week ahead. The return trip feels shorter, buoyed by the memories you’ve made over two full days of hiking, dining, and exploring.
Pack Smart: Even though the trails around Nyack are accessible, bring the essentials: comfortable hiking shoes, layers, a water bottle, and sun protection.
Timing Matters: Spring and fall offer the most pleasant hiking weather, while summer brings lush greenery (and a bit more heat). Winter hikes are possible too, but be mindful of icy conditions.
Parking & Access: Nyack Beach State Park and other popular trailheads can fill up quickly on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Support Local: From restaurants to shops to Long Path Outfitters itself, your weekend is made richer by supporting the small businesses that give Nyack its charm.
One weekend in Nyack is often just the beginning. Many visitors find themselves planning repeat trips—sometimes to tackle different trails, sometimes to revisit favorite cafés, sometimes simply to sit by the river again. That’s the beauty of Nyack: it doesn’t ask you to check everything off a list, but instead invites you to come back, again and again.
For hikers, foodies, and anyone in need of a quick but meaningful escape, Nyack is more than a waypoint—it’s a destination that feels like home, even if just for the weekend.
A weekend in Nyack offers the perfect balance of trail time and town time. With this 2-day itinerary, you’ll experience the best of both: the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley and the warm hospitality of a riverside village.
So the next time city life starts to feel like too much, pack your bag, lace up your boots, and head to Nyack. The trails are waiting, the food is delicious, and the welcome is always warm.
