I joke that my “hiking shoes” are put to good use on the soft sand, and to climb over jetties.  Another opportunity for a decent hike is along the marsh side of Stone Harbor point.  This is the best time of year to explore the paths…before the bugs arrive!

A few tips:  Sections of the path are accessible only at low tide; the paths can be muddy- best after a few dry days; and wear sturdy shoes (you are often walking over bay reeds).

Start at the parking lot at 123rd Street- and walk down the clam shell path.  There are 2 observation decks- one on the right hand side along the path, and the other on a path that wraps around to the right (toward the bay).  If you continue to follow the path around (sections are muddy), you will exit at the street end of 122nd and Third Avenue.

Of course, a long walk along the beach side of the point is always worthwhile (plenty of open space even with the restricted bird nesting areas).