Planning a day outdoors with kids can feel like packing for an expedition—you want fresh air, a little adventure, but also safe footing, bathroom breaks nearby, and maybe an ice cream stop to keep spirits high. That’s exactly where Nyack and the greater Hudson Valley shine. The “Hike Nyack” campaign, created by Long Path Outfitters in partnership with Visit Nyack, was designed to help locals and visitors alike discover just how easy—and enjoyable—it is to explore our corner of the outdoors.

This guide brings it all together for families. From stroller-friendly riverfront paths to short-but-scenic climbs with big payoffs, we’ll highlight the best kid-friendly hikes near Nyack, plus a few extra activities to round out your day. Whether you’re looking for your toddler’s first hike, a nature scavenger hunt for grade-schoolers, or a way to keep teenagers engaged, you’ll find inspiration here.

Why Nyack is Perfect for Family-Friendly Hiking

Before diving into trail suggestions, let’s set the scene. Nyack sits right on the Hudson River, framed by Hook Mountain to the north and the Palisades to the south. The area offers a rare balance: dramatic landscapes and sweeping views paired with short, manageable trail systems that don’t overwhelm younger hikers.

Here are a few reasons families love hiking in and around Nyack:

• Accessibility from NYC and beyond – Less than 45 minutes from Manhattan, Nyack is easy to reach for city families craving a nature escape.

• Variety of trails – From flat riverside walks to moderate woodland loops, the area offers options for every age and energy level.

• Amenities close by – The village itself has cafés, restaurants, and sweet shops (perfect for post-hike bribery).

• Educational opportunities – The Hudson River estuary, unique geology, and diverse wildlife make for plenty of teachable moments.

In other words: Nyack is the kind of place where you can spend an hour or a full weekend exploring, knowing there’s always a kid-friendly option close at hand.

Best Kid-Friendly Trails in Nyack and the Hudson Valley

Let’s break down a handful of family-approved hikes. We’ll start right here in Nyack, then move outward to nearby destinations across the Hudson Valley.

1. Nyack Beach State Park Path

• Distance: Up to 5 miles round-trip (turn back anytime)

• Difficulty: Easy

• Best for: Strollers, bikes, scooters, toddlers, and multi-generational outings

This riverside gem is the number one family-friendly hike in Nyack. The wide, flat gravel path hugs the Hudson, offering nonstop views of the Palisades cliffs towering above. The fact that it’s stroller- and bike-friendly makes it an easy win for families with little ones.

Kids love spotting boats on the river, searching for hawks circling overhead, and exploring the small beaches that dot the shoreline. Parents love the peace of mind of a level, car-free trail with picnic areas and bathrooms nearby.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars—bald eagles are often seen along this stretch, especially in winter.

2. Hook Mountain via Long Path (Short Section)

• Distance: 1.6 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: Moderate but short

• Best for: Elementary-age kids who want a challenge and a view

If your kids are ready for a bit more adventure, this short hike up Hook Mountain delivers big rewards quickly. The rocky climb feels exciting without being overwhelming, and the summit offers jaw-dropping views of the Hudson River and Rockland Lake.

Pack snacks to enjoy at the top—turning snack time into a “summit celebration” is a sure way to keep kids motivated.

3. Buttermilk Falls County Park – Orange & White Loop

• Distance: 2.1 miles

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Best for: Grade-schoolers and nature scavenger hunts

This short loop is perfect for families who want to combine a gentle hike with a “wow” factor. The highlight is Buttermilk Falls itself, a seasonal cascade tucked into the forest. While the falls flow strongest in spring, kids will love the sound of running water and the chance to climb nearby rocks year-round.

Parents often create scavenger hunts here—look for acorns, mossy logs, interesting leaves, or animal tracks in the mud.

4. Rockland Lake State Park Path

• Distance: 3 miles loop

• Difficulty: Easy

• Best for: Biking, walking, or skating with kids

This paved loop circles Rockland Lake, making it a safe, car-free space for wheels of all kinds. Families with bikes, scooters, or rollerblades can spend an afternoon circling the lake while enjoying water views and open picnic spaces.

In summer, the lake is also a hotspot for birdwatching. Great blue herons, swans, and other waterfowl are common sightings.

5. Raymond G. Esposito Trail

• Distance: 11.8 miles out-and-back (but you can choose any distance)

• Difficulty: Easy

• Best for: Longer family walks, jogging strollers, and biking

Though long in its entirety, this trail is flat and straightforward, making it easy to tailor to your family’s stamina. The path begins in Nyack and heads south through a shady corridor, offering a peaceful escape from busier areas.

For families with older kids who enjoy biking, this can be a fun half-day ride with a picnic break midway.

6. Tallman Mountain State Park

• Distance: Multiple loops, 1–5 miles

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Best for: Families who want options and a nature escape close to town

Tallman offers a nice variety of trails, from short woodland strolls to longer loops. Families with kids of different ages can split up or choose a middle-ground route that keeps everyone happy. The park also has picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a good all-day option.

7. Piermont Pier Walk

• Distance: 2.5 miles out-and-back

• Difficulty: Easy

• Best for: Strollers, toddlers, teens who like photography

Piermont Pier extends dramatically into the Hudson River, offering a one-of-a-kind walk with water on both sides. Kids can spot crabs, fish, and shorebirds while older ones will enjoy taking photos with the skyline in the distance.

Bonus: The village of Piermont has ice cream shops and cafés perfect for a post-walk treat.

8. Harriman State Park Family Loops

• Distance: Varies (1–3 miles for kid-friendly options)

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Best for: Families who want a bigger adventure close to Nyack

Harriman State Park, just 20 minutes north, is a treasure trove of family-friendly trails. Lakes, streams, and gentle climbs abound, making it an ideal “next step” for families who’ve explored Nyack’s closer options. The Reeves Meadow Visitor Center is a great starting point.

Tips for Hiking with Kids in the Hudson Valley

Even the best trail can become a challenge if kids aren’t set up for success. Here are a few tried-and-true tips for families exploring the Hudson Valley:

1. Keep it short and sweet – Younger kids often enjoy hikes between 1–3 miles. Save the longer treks for when they’re older.

2. Pack snacks and water – A bag of trail mix or fruit snacks can turn morale around quickly.

3. Layer up – Hudson Valley weather can change fast, especially near the river. Bring a light jacket or hoodie.

4. Make it a game – Scavenger hunts, storytelling, or even timing how fast they can reach the next bend keeps kids engaged.

5. Take breaks – Encourage kids to sit, explore, and enjoy nature instead of rushing through.

6. End with a treat – Whether it’s hot chocolate in winter or ice cream in summer, a reward makes the day feel special.

Beyond the Trail: Family-Friendly Activities in Nyack

One of Nyack’s best qualities is how seamlessly nature and community come together. After a hike, you’re never far from kid-friendly activities or bites to eat.

Where to Refuel

• Art Café – Known for its cozy vibe and menu of family favorites.

• The Breakfast & Burger Club – Perfect for a hearty meal after a long walk.

• Tree of Chocolate – A kid-approved stop for a sweet treat.

• Salonnière — Lovely baked goods and mini sandwiches and empanadas.

Fun Add-Ons

• Nyack Farmers Market – Kids love sampling fresh fruit and baked goods.

• Memorial Park Playground – A riverside playground where kids can burn off the last bit of energy.

• Riverspace Outdoor Art – Local murals and art installations spark conversation and creativity.

Building Lifelong Outdoor Memories

Hiking as a family isn’t just about the steps you take on the trail—it’s about building habits, memories, and connections with nature that last a lifetime. Nyack and the greater Hudson Valley offer a perfect setting to make those memories, whether you’re strolling by the Hudson with a stroller or cheering on a teenager as they scramble to a summit.

The next time you’re planning a family outing, keep this guide handy. Let Nyack be your launch point into kid-friendly adventures, and let Long Path Outfitters help you gear up, plan well, and enjoy every step of the journey.

Final Thoughts

“Hike Nyack” was built to highlight the outdoor richness of this community, and family-friendly adventures are at the heart of that story. With its blend of accessible trails, welcoming town amenities, and endless ways to engage kids in the outdoors, Nyack truly is a family hiking hub in the Hudson Valley.

So lace up those little hiking boots, pack a few snacks, and hit the trails. The Hudson River is waiting.