Cold Spring

The Hudson Highlands provide spectacular hikes for all skill levels via a variety of peaks and lush terrain. A leisurely stroll around a flat peninsula where you can wade into the Hudson River at the beach is available on Little Stony Point Loop. The Cornish Estate Trail, marked by blue blazes and beginning opposite Little Stony Point Loop, is a gradually descending, mostly unpaved route where you may explore historic remnants like a crumbling home and abandoned dairy farm.

For a breathtaking 360-degree view of Storm King Mountain, Bannerman Castle, and, on clear days, the Catskills, the daring should attempt the arduous climbs and rock scrambles that lead to Breakneck Ridge's summit. Bring water and appropriate footwear, even for the shorter excursions, and consult the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, Open Space Institute, and Appalachian Mountain Club for thorough guides and maps. [Nadia Chaudhury]

• Good for outdoorsy folk

• Distance: 70mins by Metro-North