Outdoor Spotlight: New York’s National Parks
By: John Shramko
Tags: John Shramko, Outdoor Living, Outdoors, Hiking

New York State has some of the finest and most important National Parks in the country. Some of the parks boast magnificent natural wonders while others are located in urban areas representing important historical events. Here are some of the best New York has to offer.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls and the surrounding area was designated by Congress in 2008 as the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area . It stretches from the western boundary of Wheatfield, New York to the mouth of the Niagara River on Lake Ontario. The falls are spectacular and the centerpiece of the area. Historic towns and sites include Lewiston, Youngstown, and Old Fort Niagara.

The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,180 mile National Scenic Trail that runs through the eastern most states from Maine to Florida, including New York. The trail is a footpath that is available to the general public. It traverses beautiful forests, pastures, mountains, and rivers. The Appalachian Trail was conceived in 1921. It was constructed by private citizens and is maintained by the National Park Service, the US Forest Service, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. There are several camping areas and manned huts along the route.

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty was a gift of friendship to the United States from the people of France. The Lady signifies a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886 and was designated a National Monument in 1924. The National Park Service has been caring for the statue since 1933. 12 million immigrants came to the United States for a better life. They were processed through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954. The grounds and the main hall were restored later and all the names of those who passed through are displayed here. It is awesome to hear the stories of those who started their lives in the USA at Ellis Island. You can reach The Statue and Ellis Island via ferry from lower Manhattan.

National Historic Sites of Hyde Park

Hyde Park is a scenic and historically significant town located on the Hudson River. Franklin D. Roosevelt’s mansion, Springwood , is the estate that he considered his home. The first US Presidential Library is here. The Vanderbilt Mansion is a National Historic Site that is architecturally significant in terms of interior design, mechanical systems, and landscaping. It is an example of a gilded-age country estate that reflects the changes that occurred during the industrialization of America in the years following the Civil War.

Other Parks worth Mentioning

New York State has many more National Parks and National Historic or Heritage Sites. Here are some worth checking out:

African Burial Ground National Monument in New York City

Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor in Upstate New York

Fire Island National Seashore in Patchogue

Governors Island National Monument in New York Harbor

Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area in Albany

Saratoga Historic National Park in Stillwater

No matter which location you decide to visit, rest assured that you will be treated to incredible sites and rich history at each of the National Parks New York has to offer.