Explore the great outdoors while getting to know the Westchester suburbs.
For many city families, moving to the suburbs means finally getting outdoor space – and lots of it. But if you’re looking for more than a spacious backyard, you’re in luck, because these Westchester suburbs are home to some of the best hiking, biking, and walking trails around. If easy access to the great outdoors tops your list, start here.
#1. Croton-on-Hudson: Croton Point Park and Croton Gorge Park
Croton Point Park is a beautiful waterfront park with year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, swimming, camping, and fields for baseball and cricket. Croton Gorge Park is a 97-acre park with views of the Croton Dam. It provides direct access to New York State’s Old Croton Aqueduct and is a favorite spot for residents who want to hike, picnic, or fish.
The town is big on community events and hosts a sunset summer concert series. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to The Blue Pig, the beloved local ice cream shop.
#2. Mt Kisco: Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary and Westmoreland Sanctuary
Mt. Kisco residents and visitors love exploring the 6.5 miles of trails at Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary. While you’re here, keep an eye out for wildlife, especially the wood thrush, warblers, and scarlet tanagers – they’re known to spend summers here.
Another favorite: Westmoreland Sanctuary with its 7.5 miles of trails and countless programs for all ages including guided hikes and summer camps. After hitting the trails, be sure to stop by Tipsy Taco Bar for some well-deserved quesadillas, churros, and cocktails.
#3. White Plains: Saxon Woods Park and Silver Lake Preserve
White Plains is known for Saxon Woods Park, a 700-acre property which includes an 18-hole golf course, mini golf, and a swimming pool. Silver Lake Preserve is another great option, offering five miles of rugged trails and serene lake views.
If you have time to explore White Plains pre- or post-hike, be sure and head downtown. Downtown White Plains offers Manhattan-style amenities from a performing arts venue to boutique fitness studios to foodie-approved restaurants including Mulino’s of White Plains, Red Horse by David Burke, Sapori, and more.
#4. Ossining: Teatown Lake Reservation and Sunny Ridge Preserve
Teatown Lake Reservation is a popular 1,000-acre nature preserve with 15 miles of scenic lakeside trails. Outdoor enthusiasts can dive into any of the reservation’s public programming, including guided tours and special events (don’t miss EagleFest!). Nearby Sunny Ridge Preserve also has great hiking trails, including some easier-to-tackle paths for families with younger kids.
After hiking, check out Sing Sing Kill Brewery or Here Coffee + Beer, both local favorites featuring diverse menu options.
#5. Chappaqua: Whippoorwill Park, Pinecliff Sanctuary, and Gedney Park
Whippoorwill Park is a large park in Chappaqua with easy, well-marked trails for running and hiking. Gedney Park is another green space in town with trails and sports fields.
Locals can also hit the seven-acre Pinecliff Sanctuary – be on the lookout for reptiles, amphibians, and birds while you’re hiking. Bonus: if your four-legged friend loves hitting the trails, you’re in luck. Dogs are allowed on leashes at the sanctuary.
After exploring, hike downtown and get a feel for the community. The area near the train station has a pizzeria, ice cream shop, and a seasonal Saturday farmers market.
#6. Armonk: Eugene and Agnes Meyer Preserve and Betsy Sluder Nature Preserve
The Eugene and Agnes Meyer Preserve is popular with trail runners who enjoy the rugged paths and beautiful wildflower vistas. The preserve has 6.5 miles of trails and free parking. Betsy Sluder Nature Preserve has a 1.8-mile loop trail that is great for hiking, running, and birding. Good news for pet parents. Dogs are welcome on leash.
Enjoying some small-batch ice cream at Longford’s is a great way to celebrate the summer and reward yourself after a hike!
#7. Bedford: Mianus River Gorge and Guard Hill Preserve
Bedford is a laid-back town with tons of green space for outdoorsy residents. The Bedford Village Memorial Park has a playground, tennis courts, and a swimming pool in the heart of town. Also popular among locals? Mianus River Gorge, with six miles of seasonal trails and views of waterfalls and woodlands. We also love Guard Hill Preserve, a 76-acre preserve with trails for hikers and horseback riders.
Insider tip: Truck is a great nearby option for a casual, post-hike bite.
#8. Peekskill: Blue Mountain Reservation and Anthony’s Nose
Peekskill is a Hudson River town known for its incredible hiking. The 1,538-acre Blue Mountain Reservation is popular with mountain bikers or adventurous hikers who want to summit Mt. Spitzenberg or Blue Mountain. From this reservation, hikers can also access the unpaved 12-mile Briarcliff-Peekskill Trailway. Anthony’s Nose is just north of Peekskill but is another great option for residents looking for a challenging hike.
Post-hike, grab a drink and a bite at the local River Outpost Brewing Co. This spot serves craft beer brewed on location, BBQ, and hearth-fired pizza.
#9. Yorktown Heights: Turkey Mountain Nature Preserve and Sylvan Glen Park Preserve
Yorktown Heights is 40 miles north of Manhattan but feels like a world away. While there are plenty of outdoor activities year-round, in the summer this community truly comes to life. A favorite: live outdoor music and relaxing and unwinding at Sparkle Lake Beach.
Hiking opportunities include the 125-acre Turkey Mountain Nature Preserve, which provides impressive views of Manhattan and the Hudson River, and Sylvan Glen Park Preserve, which has multiple marked trails and a dog park. We suggest stopping by Pappous Greek Kitchen to grab a pita sandwich or salad, and turn your hike into a picnic.
Ready to find the town that fits your active lifestyle? Let us help! Get in touch today to schedule your FREE Suburbs Strategy Session.
