Long Path
Overview
The Long Path is a long-distance hiking trail that extends for more than 350 miles from New York City to the Capital Region near Albany, New York.
Destination Description
The Long Path begins at the 175th Street subway station in New York City and heads over the George Washington Bridge to the New Jersey Section of the Palisades Interstate Park. From there, the aqua-blazed trail weaves north for more than 350 miles through forests, up over mountain ridges and into the Catskills, passing farms and meadows. The blazed trail currently ends at John Boyd Thacher State Park outside of Albany, New York. With so many sections to choose from, the Long Path is popular for everything from a short walk in the woods to day hikes, trail runs, and backpacking trips.
This historic trail dates back to the 1930s, when Vincent Schafer conceived of a "Long Brown Path" that would extend from New York City all the way to the Adirondacks. Today, the Long Path connects a long list of public lands and shares part of its route with the popular Shawangunk Ridge Trail. It invites millions of people living in and near the nation’s largest city to experience four seasons worth of wilderness on one of America’s oldest trails.
Hikers who complete all 358 miles of the Long Path -- either in one long hike or in sections over time -- are known as "end-to-enders." The Trail Conference awards a certificate and patch to hikers who earn this honor.
Also see Long Path Region overview, Long Path Guide and Backpacking the Long Path for additional resources
Know Before You Go
- The Long Path is marked with 2" x 4" aqua paint blazes. Some junctions and other significant locations are also marked with circular Long Path marker discs.
- Exceptions to this marking exist in the Catskill Park and along the Shawangunk Ridge. Some sections of the Long Path in these areas follow existing Forest Preserve trails marked with blue, red, or yellow plastic disks.
- Wear athletic shoes (sneakers) or hiking boots. No sandals.
- The Long Path includes some steep and rocky sections, but a majority of its 358 miles is moderate hiking.
- Use a map to plan your hike.
- Bring the essentials, including water, sunscreen, snacks, and a hat.