Where to Find the Best Hiking, Picnicking & Waterfront Views in Westchester
Soak in the fresh Hudson Valley air and discover the natural beauty just moments from the Sleepy Hollow Hotel. Spend a quiet afternoon exploring Westchester County’s scenic hiking trails, enjoy a riverside picnic, or simply take in sweeping views of the Hudson that feel straight out of a postcard. Whether visiting for a wedding, weekend getaway, or business trip, travelers find time to enjoy the views, the trails, and the peaceful riverside settings. Plan a weekend of outdoor activities with this guide of the best places for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying waterfront views.
Best Hiking Near Sleepy Hollow Hotel
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Enjoy a relaxing day outdoors in the Rockefeller State Park Preserve. The wide carriage road trails are paved in crushed stone, making them easy to walk on. The over 45 miles of trails will take you through a variety of landscapes. Swan Lake and Pocantico River can’t be missed. Nature enthusiasts love the preserve because it is home to over 200 bird species and 100 bee species. This park is easy to visit, being less than five miles from the Sleepy Hollow Hotel.
Teatown Lake Reservation
There are 15 miles of hiking trails that crisscross throughout Teatown Lake Reservation. Choose from 14 trails that lead through dense forests, laurel groves, swamps, farmlands, and open fields. The trails cater to various experience levels, from easy to challenging. This park is especially popular with visitors looking to experience the local flora and fauna. The park is just a 20-minute drive from the Sleepy Hollow Hotel.
Old Croton Aqueduct Trail
Follow the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail for its full 26.2 miles as it winds through quaint river towns and forests. This trail is mostly flat, making it perfect for those seeking an easy-to-moderate hiking experience. There is plenty to see along the trail, including the New Croton Dam, Lyndhurst Estate, Sunnyside, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, and Union Church of Pocantico. The experience is worth the 17-minute drive, as it’s 13 miles from the Sleepy Hollow Hotel.
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Trails
Explore the history of Sleepy Hollow by strolling the 90-acre grounds of the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. The cemetery is open to the public daily, allowing you to visit at your leisure. You are less than 3 miles, or a 10-minute drive away, when staying at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel. As you wander, you’ll pass the resting places of many famous figures in American history. Venturing beyond the graves, you’ll enjoy rolling hills and scenic views of the Hudson. If you prefer, several tours are available. Tickets must be purchased in advance if you decide to join one of the tours.
- The Original Knickerbocker
- Classic Daytime Tour
- Classic Evening Lantern Tour
- Murder & Mayhem
Best Picnicking Spots
Pierson Park
Locals and visitors love Pierson Park for its family-friendly amenities and atmosphere. When you visit, pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing meal at the picnic pavilions or flat lawn areas. The park's waterfront location offers visitors stunning views of the Hudson River. After lunch, take a walk along the Westchester Riverwalk. Sleepy Hollow Hotel guests are only two miles away from the park, making it a quick 10-minute drive.
Kingsland Point Park
Pack a picnic and spend the day along the Hudson waterfront in Kingsland Point Park. This 18-acre park has picnic areas, ballfields, hiking trails, fishing spots, and playgrounds. There are even grills available if you prefer to have a freshly prepared hot lunch. Visiting the park is easy when you stay at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel, which is only 3 miles or a 12-minute drive away.
Best Waterfront Views
Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse
The Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse once stood a half mile from shore. Today, it’s just feet away, making it easy to visit. Visitors can tour the lighthouse at no cost. This will give you some of the best and most unique views of the Tappan Zee Bridge. However, you can also enjoy waterfront views from the shore. For the best views, visit at sunset. Visiting the lighthouse at Kingsland Point Park is a quick 12-minute drive from the Sleepy Hollow Hotel.
Tarrytown RiverWalk Park
Walk along the water’s edge as you follow Tarrytown RiverWalk Park’s promenade. The path is paved. All fitness levels can walk on it. Stop and enjoy the skyline as you sit on one of the many benches lining the path. The serene atmosphere of the park is perfect for taking pictures. Guests of the Sleepy Hollow Hotel are less than 2 miles away, requiring a 7-minute drive to enjoy this peaceful park.
Spend Time Outdoors in Westchester
From trails to riverside picnics and iconic Hudson views, Westchester County offers easy access to nature’s best. These local places have some of the best hiking trails in Westchester County, NY. Whether it’s a light hike, a riverfront lunch, or a sunset stroll, you’ll find something special just around the corner from the Sleepy Hollow Hotel.
Book your stay at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel and plan a visit full of outdoor exploration.