The David Weld Sanctuary: Nissequogue
Hike along towering tulip trees and beautiful red cedars with views of the water. Once you make your way to the top, stop at the bluff along the Long Island Sound and carefully venture downhill onto the beach for a stroll along the shoreline. Be sure to get here early, parking is limited. Boney Ln, St James
Caleb Smith State Park: Smithtown
Tucked in the heart of Smithtown, Caleb Smith State Park is one of only two state nature preserves on Long Island. Boasting 543 acres of beautiful land perfect for hiking with exquisite views of rare plants like the Pink Lady Slipper, Indian Pipe and Trailing Arbutus. 581 West Jericho Tpk, Smithtown
Seal Halout Hike: Montauk
Head to the tip of Montauk from November to April and hike along the shoreline to meet up with Seal Haulout Trail. Make your way to the observation area to spot the incredible harbor seals. The seals haul themselves onto the rocky shoreline each year east of Oyster Pond and set up shop for the season. East End of Route 27, Montauk
Sands Point Preserve: Sands Point
The 216-acre park is the place to capture the beauty of Long Island’s Gold Coast. Not only will hikers get to view the beautiful mansions, but the park also has a total of six trails that venture through woods, cliffs and beaches. The Sands Point Preserve trail is a total of 1.6-miles, perfect for all skill levels. Hikers will hike through wooded areas, open fields and ponds. Bringing the kids along? The Dino Trail is the perfect outdoor adventure where kids will have the chance to see dinosaur footprints! 127 Middle Neck Rd, Sands Point
Sunken Meadow State Park: Kings Park
Venture on this 3-mile hiking trail with moderate hills and one of the best views of the Long Island Sound—beach breezes included. Hikers will come across beautiful wildflowers and maybe even a dog or two since furry friends are welcomed. Not to mention, the park’s boardwalk is perfect for watching the waves and refueling with a picnic right along the shoreline afterwards. Yoga lovers can also enjoy free yoga on the boardwalk during the summer months. Rte. 25A and Sunken Meadow Pkwy, Kings Park
Trail View State Park: Woodbury
More than 400-acres of state park runs between Bethpage State Park and Cold Spring Harbor State Park. And it’s the perfect way to explore nature. Hikers get to work on their cardio surrounded by forests, marshes and fields. Bikers are also welcome on the path. 8101 Jericho Tpk, Woodbury
Hempstead Lake State Park: West Hempstead
On the largest lake in Nassau County, Hempstead State Park offers flat hiking trails alongside three ponds. Pro Tip: Always have your cameras ready for a photo op. The 737-acre park also offers shaded picnic areas with benches, tables and BBQ pits perfect for a summer cookout. Address: Eagle Ave, West Hempstead
Quogue Wildlife Refuge: Quogue
The 300-acre refuge has three trails with connecting trails that add up to more than 7 miles. When hiking through the Pine Barrens, keep an eye out for foxes, eagles and other wildlife. The shortest trail circles around the pond where visitors can also find a nature center. Yoga classes are also offered inside the park. 3 Old Country Rd, Quogue