Pat Dolan Trail - Forest Hills, NY
Pat Dolan Trail – Dog-Friendly Hiking in Forest Hills, New York
Pat Dolan Trail at Flushing Meadows Park offers a rustic, pet-friendly experience for dog owners looking to enjoy the great outdoors in Forest Hills, New York. This natural trail is surrounded by lovely trees, abundant shade, wildflowers, and plenty of opportunities for bird watching. Nature lovers and their dogs can enjoy scenic walks along the trail, especially with the fresh flower scents and peaceful environment, making it a unique spot within the city.
While the trail is easy to navigate with mostly level paths, visitors should note that it can get muddy, especially after rain. There are wooden boardwalks over wetter areas, but some sections may have big holes or trash. Amenities are minimal — there are no restrooms, benches, or obvious fenced dog areas — but the tranquil setting and sights of local birds, ducks, and geese more than make up for its rustic charm. It’s perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path, dog-friendly hiking location right in Forest Hills.
FAQ
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the Pat Dolan Trail is a dedicated trail in Flushing Meadows Park with several rustic, natural paths ideal for walking with your dog.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The trail features plenty of natural shade from mature trees along the route.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? No, there are no benches or designated seating areas along the trail.
- Are restrooms available for owners? There are no restrooms provided on the Pat Dolan Trail.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? The trail can get muddy, but wooden boardwalk sections help in wetter areas.
- Is the park open year-round? The trail is accessible during all seasons, making it a great year-round spot for dog-friendly hikes.
Reviews
Not very well kept, I love that this is in the city but the amount of trash and big holes in the path is a lot.
This is a trail in the back of flushing meadows park, and that people need to cross on an overpass over grand central parkway or the van Wyck expressway to get to the trail. Also, that some people will take this trail because to see birds, flower and other things.
Even though it was winter it was a great train to explore. Saw a lot of ducks and geese in the lake and also other birds on the trail. It can be a little muddy but it’s not too bad. Most of the wet/muddy parts of the trail had wooden board wall style areas to walk on. Highly recommend it. You will still hear the Highway even though you are surrounded by tall weed plants.
Quiet clean trail with lots of lovely trees, shade, nice flower smell all over. Nice easy trail not too much climb or down. It’s rustic natural paths which is nice. Many birds spotted. No bathrooms or benches.
This is a trail in the back of flushing meadows park, it’s donated form the front part as there is swamp land that is not stable to be waked on around here. And eventually to get back to the front of the park you have to take and over pass over the highway and walk through a neighborhood hood for a while till you can get back north to where the center of the park is by busy intersection