Life in Recovery: Top Places in New York City to Get Outdoors and Enjoy Nature
Legacy Healing Center Blog
These Outdoor Activities in New York City Are Great for People in Recovery!
When you’re lost in the cycle of addiction, it’s fairly easy to overlook the incredible aspects of nature. Addiction forces you to be stuck in an endless momentum of craving, guilt, and embarrassment. As you work toward completing your drug rehab or alcohol rehab program, you may begin to notice that you have an affinity for certain things in New York City that you may not have realized in the past such as spending more time outside. When you come to Legacy Healing Center, we will encourage you to indulge in certain interests that can help you maintain your sobriety.
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Why Being in Nature is Great for Addiction Recovery
Nature can provide you with the type of environment that is incredibly relaxing. Taking the opportunity to get out in nature gives you time to clear your mind and can be particularly calming after a stressful day. Combining outdoor activities with attending regular 12-step meetings is an excellent way for you to focus on your overall recovery.
Hiking Trails In and Around
New York City
There are several hiking trails that are located relatively close to New York City. One of the great benefits of going to one of these hiking trails is the fact that you can make a day-long adventure out of it. Here are a few places that you may want to consider:
Breakneck Ridge Trail
1 Route 9D, Beacon, New York 12508
If you’re transitioning into hiking, you should start off with an easier challenge such as Breakneck Ridge Trail. This hiking trail features a 3.2-mile loop which means that you can take the loop slow and enjoy the scenery. This trail is steep at times so be sure to focus on using your upper body strength to compensate for this climb.
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Pine Meadow Lake Trail
800 Kanawauke Road, Southfields, New York 10975
The Pine Meadow Lake Trail is located within Harriman State Park and provides hikers with a nearly 10-mile challenge. If you don’t feel like taking the longer trail, you can opt for the shorter 5-mile version which still follows along scenic Pine Meadow Lake.
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Biking Trails In and Around New York
Biking is an excellent way to enjoy nature and get a workout at the same time. Are you looking for trails in and around the city? Try these options:
Cunningham Park
196-10 Union Tpke, Fresh Meadows, NY 11366
Cunningham Park features a great paved bike trail for a biker of any skill level. This trail is a great option for a quick after-work adventure.
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Wolfe’s Pond Park
420 Cornelia Avenue, Staten Island, New York 10312
Wolfe’s Pond Park is located just a short drive outside of the city. It’s home to not only a challenging bike trail but other family-friendly activities that can help to make time with your loved ones special.
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Best Parks in New York City
Although New York City is known as a bustling metropolis, the developers of the city have taken great strides to try to keep certain areas of the city specifically designated with parks that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
Central Park
5 Central Park W., New York, New York 10023
Without question, Central Park is one of the most well-known parks in New York City. Central Park features over 800 acres of grounds including paved walkways, gardens, and even a zoo.
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Prospect Park
95 Prospect Park W., Brooklyn, New York, 11215
Prospect Park has been open to visitors since 1867. This park was the brainchild of Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux who were highly respected during this time period. You can go for a walk or opt to spend the day with your family enjoying a picnic.
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Places to Go Kayaking In and Around New York City
If spending time on the water is more your speed, don’t worry. There are countless places around the New York City area that can cater to your kayaking interests.
Manhattan Kayaking Company
555 12th Avenue, New York, New York 10036
Whether you’re a novice kayaker or you have years of experience, the Manhattan Kayaking Company can set you up with everything that you need to explore New York City’s west side. You can paddle past the Statue of Liberty or enjoy a unique view of Ellis Island. Be sure to book your reservations in advance, however, as time slots fill up quickly.
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The Downtown Boathouse
Pier 26, New York, New York 10013
If the waters of downtown Manhattan are more your style, you can opt to cast off at The Downtown Boathouse. The best part about kayaking in this area is that it’s completely free. You are restricted to only 20 minutes, but you can sign up for a timeslot at a later time during the day and enjoy the waters again.
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If you’re interested in learning more about the addiction treatment programs at Legacy Healing Center or our options for alcohol and drug detox, please reach out to us today at 888.534.2295.