Little Hikes for Little Legs: 4 Kid-Friendly Trails in NYC

School’s out for the summer! If you are a parent or have a child in your life, you know how hard it can be keeping them busy. Fear not, we’ve compiled a list of kid-friendly hikes you can take right here in NYC! Read on below for specific tried and true trail recommendations from NAC parents who know a thing or two about getting their kids outside.

1. Strack Pond, Forest Park, Queens

A gentle hike that takes you to a restored glacial kettle pond in the middle of Forest Park. Fantastic place to spot birds who like to hang out near the freshwater pond. This hike has the added benefit of being very close to the seasonal Forest Park Carousel Amusement Village where you can enjoy post-hike rides and snacks!

2. Coney Island Creek, Kaiser Park, Brooklyn

Planning a day out to Coney Island anyway? Why not get a dose of nature and amble just a short distance from the boardwalk to Coney Island Creek Park for a breath of ocean air away from the hustle and bustle.

3. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, Queens

Take your kids along the west loop trail for gorgeous views of the bay. Then make a pit-stop at the visitor’s center and meet NPS Rangers, see bird and wildlife interpretative signage, and beautiful views of lower Manhattan.

4. Fort Tilden, Brooklyn

Explore this former U.S. Army base that’s now a beautiful park and natural area. After you catch the view from the top of the bunker, you can enjoy a walk through the maritime forest which will take you right to the beach.

We hope you enjoy the summer out with your family in natural areas! Check out our other kid-focused blog post for more ideas on activities in NYC Parks and natural areas.