Top 10 Fall Foliage Hikes in New York + New Jersey

These day hikes are perfect for checking out the changing colors of fall.

We asked our staff and volunteers for their recommendations on great fall foliage hikes. Here are their top 10 hikes for autumn found thorughout the region (in no particular order), which are all perfect for a day trip. Click through the list below to find details and directions for each hike. Then get out and enjoy the great outdoors on trails maintained by Trail Conference volunteers

Don't forget to grab a map!

Reminder: Hunting season starts October 1 in some areas. See this year's hunting season dates and regulations in New York and New Jersey. The page also includes links to no-hunting hiking areas.


weekly reports from the
Foliage Network

Favorite Fall Foliage Hikes in New Jersey

  •  Wyanokie High Point Loop in Norvin Green State Forest passes by an old iron mine and boasts 360-degree panoramic views at the summit. Recommended by Daniel Chazin, editor of New Jersey Walk Book, and by George Petty, author of Hiking the Jersey Highlands. Get details.
  • State Line Trail/Ernest Walter Trail/A.T. Loop from Greenwood Lake Marina in Abram S. Hewitt State Forest is a strenuous workout, but one of the most memorable hikes in the Jersey Highlands. Recommended by Daniel Chazin, editor of New Jersey Walk Book, and by George Petty, author of Hiking the Jersey HighlandsGet details.
  • Forest View Trail/Closter Dock Hike along the top of the Palisades, then stroll along the Hudson River on the Trail Loop. Recommended by Daniel Chazin, editor of New Jersey Walk Book. Get details
  • Monument Trail Loop at High Point State Park, a popular trail, reaches the High Point obelisk. Recommended by Robert Boysen, author of Kittatinny Trails. Get details.  
  • Vista Loop at Ramapo Valley County Reservation explores several vistas, including a waterfall and a panoramic view of New York City. Recommended by Heather Darley, Communications Assistant. Get details.

Favorite Fall Foliage Hikes in New York