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Hiking & Rock Climbing

From the High Peaks of the Adirondacks to the sandy dunes of Long Island, DEC owns and maintains thousands of miles of hiking trails throughout New York State. These routes range from challenging mountain treks to easy afternoon strolls. Hiking opportunities abound for people of any interest or ability.NYSDEC Foot Trail Disk

Hiking trails are maintained on many areas of Forest Preserve land in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks as well as on State Forests, Wildlife Management Areas and Unique Areas.

Most trails are marked with color coded disks affixed to trees (see sample on this page). Trail guides and maps correspond to these markers. Trail register boxes are generally located near major access points and parking areas. Although most state-maintained trails are marked, hikers are encouraged to consult topographical maps or other guides when planning to venture into the backcountry.

For DEC trail information in the Adirondacks, use the link in the left column. Elsewhere please call the local DEC Office of the area you plan to visit. The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) manages hiking trails at State Parks throughout New York State. A link to the OPRHP website can be found on the right hand side of this page.

More about Hiking & Rock Climbing:

  • North Country National Scenic Trail - The DEC has completed a Draft Plan/GEIS for the North Country National Scenic Trail Adirondack Park section. This plan describes a proposed route across the central region of the Adirondack Park. The route assessment presented in this plan will be integrated into the unit management plans (ump's) for each respective unit traversed by the trail.
  • Adirondack Trail Information - Trail information, closures and other notices for trails in the eastern 3/4 of the Adirondacks (DEC Region 5)
  • Peregrine Falcons and the Adirondack Rock Climber - Facts about Peregrine Falcons and how rock climbers can help to ensure their successful return to the Adirondacks
  • Adirondack Rock Climbing Route Closures - Adirondack rock climbing routes closed by DEC due to Peregrine Falcon nesting activities
  • Hiking Safety - Tips and recommended outdoor gear for hiking safely.
  • Trails Supporter Patch - The public may support trail maintenance projects across the state by purchasing the $5 patch.