4 uphill hikes to check out on Long Island

Long Island isn’t exactly known for steep hiking trails, but it does feature significant hills along its north shore, extreme eastern end and within the Pine Barrens region. Trails here are not as challenging as upstate mountain peaks, but they can offer a solid aerobic workout along with some scenic vistas. These climbs are part of the 500-plus miles of trails across the Island, according to Matthew McBride, president of the Adirondack Mountain Club’s Long Island chapter.

“They are well marked and not far off the grid, so you’re unlikely to get lost, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised how much time you spend in the woods,” McBride said.

The following are four manageable uphill climbs to get your heart pumping.

Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail, Cold Spring Harbor to Uplands Farm Sanctuary Segment

Start from the free dirt parking lot on Harbor Road / Route 25A in Cold Spring Harbor, across from Billy Joel Boat Ramp (100-198 NY-25A), bit.ly/3VCB2Mz

Details: This is part of the 20-mile Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail. The trail begins at the northern terminus of the trail inside Cold Spring Harbor State Park. It runs south through the hilly, forested terrain of the state park, crosses Lawrence Hill Road, and extends into the loop paths of the Uplands Farm Sanctuary. The trails are well marked.

Distance: 5.4 miles

Sunken Meadow State Park, Bluffs Loop, Kings Park

From parking lot 3 or 4, Sunken Meadow State Parkway, Kings Park, cross the small bridge over Sunken Meadow Creek to begin, bit.ly/4e2NTOo

Details: Part of the 32-mile Long Island Greenbelt Trail, this hike features two major hills — Snake and Cardiac. The trek from the bridge to the top of Snake Hill is one continuous climb. Cardiac Hill is shorter but steeper. You can see the Long Island Sound below and glimpse eroding glacial bluffs along various sections. Parking is $8-$10 on spring and fall weekends, daily during summer.

Distance: 5.4 miles

Manorville Hills County Park, Hot Water Street, Topping Path and Paumanok Path, Manorville

Access from eastbound Capt. Daniel Roe Highway, County Route 111, suffolkcountyny.gov/ parks

Details: Part of the 125-mile-long Paumanok Path, this hike is moderately challenging with rolling hills. “The difference in the terrain is amazing,” said McBride. “Sections that look like national forests contrast with the Pine Barrens.” Leashed dogs are welcome. Suffolk County Green Key card required, $30 for 3 years.

Distance: 5.9 miles

Camp Hero State Park, Bluff trails, Montauk

Loops begin and end at the Camp Hero State Park Parking Fields, 1898 Montauk Hwy, Montauk, bit.ly/47mRxiu

Details: Explore trails ranging from 2.2 to 3.1 miles or connect these with adjacent Montauk Point State Park trails to create a 5.5-mile Montauk Point Loop. Either way, you’ll traverse rolling terrain over eroding bluffs and through historic military sites, maritime forests and freshwater wetlands. Stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and Montauk Point Lighthouse highlight this loop. Parking is $8 per car or free with an Empire Pass. Also free before 8 a.m. and after 4 p.m.

Distance: 5.5 miles