Winter hiking in our region is quiet, beautiful, and full of surprising scenery—from frozen lakes to icy cascades. Whether you’re taking the kids or heading out solo, these trails offer safe, scenic cold‑weather exploring.
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Top Winter Trails in Westchester
Teatown Lake Reservation – Ossining
Nearly 15 miles of trails with lakes, swamps, and wildlife. A popular winter choice, with programs like Snow Stories and Full Moon Hikes.
Cranberry Lake Preserve – North White Plains
Winter loops around Cranberry Lake & South Pond create icy, picturesque shorelines—perfect for families seeking low‑elevation water scenery.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve – Pleasantville (Stroller‑Friendly!)
45 miles of carriage roads offer easy, snow-friendly walking with wide-open winter views.
Turkey Mountain – Yorktown
A moderate climb with impressive winter panoramas of the county once you reach the summit. Great for energetic kids.
Family-Friendly Waterfall Hikes
These waterfall spots are all confirmed, kid‑friendly, and accessible in winter with proper caution.
Croton Gorge Park – Cortlandt (Stroller‑Friendly in Many Areas)
Westchester’s most famous waterfall—the dramatic spillway of the Croton Dam—is a huge hit with kids, who love feeling the mist. Trails are easy, and you can walk across the top of the dam for a thrilling vantage point.
Fishkill Creek Falls – Beacon
An easy, no-hike-required waterfall. Walk toward the end of Beacon’s Main Street and you’ll spot this pretty cascade near the train tracks. Great for a quick family outing with plenty to do in town afterward.
Zabriskie’s Waterfall – Annandale-on-Hudson
Located on Bard College’s campus, this waterfall is scenic and accessible, making it perfect for families with young kids.
Kaaterskill Falls – Haines Falls
One of the region’s most iconic waterfalls. While the full hike can be steep, families can safely enjoy the falls from the Laurel‑House Road observation platform—a short, flat walk.
Hudson Valley Winter Hikes with Water Views
Arden Point & Glenclyffe – Garrison
Beautiful Hudson River overlooks and an easy grade suitable for families.
Ashokan Reservoir Promenade – Olivebridge
A flat 5.5‑mile walk with sweeping frozen‑shoreline views. Great for strollers and young hikers.
Mohonk Preserve – New Paltz (Stroller‑Friendly When Clear)
Undercliff/Overcliff carriage roads offer dramatic cold‑weather vistas. Snowshoes recommended after storms.
Winter Hiking Safety Tips
Winter hiking is wonderful—but preparation is everything. Here’s what experts recommend:
1. Wear Proper Layers
Use a moisture‑wicking base, insulated mid‑layer, and waterproof outer shell. Hats, gloves, and gaiters help retain heat.
2. Use Traction (Ice Cleats or Microspikes)
Frozen terrain is common on winter trails. Traction devices help keep footing secure.
3. Bring a Map & Know the Route
Winter conditions can obscure trail markings; offline maps and printed trail guides are essential.
4. Carry Water & Electrolytes
Cold weather is dehydrating—bring more fluids than you think you need.
5. Start Early & Watch Daylight
Sunset comes fast in winter. Plan to finish hikes before dark.
6. Pack Poles for Stability
They help navigate icy patches, steep sections, and snowy trails.
No matter your pace or who’s along for the adventure, winter in Westchester and the Hudson Valley makes every trail feel a little more magical. From stroller‑friendly reservoir walks to kid‑approved waterfall stops and scenic overlooks dusted in snow, there’s truly something for every family and every comfort level. Grab a thermos, bundle up, and head out—you’ll come home with rosy cheeks, tired legs, and the kind of memories only a crisp winter hike can create.
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