7. Kissena Park, Queens

Though its trails are less extensive than many on this list, Kissena Park is still a great place to find solitude if you find yourself or live near Flushing, Queens. While many go here for its Velodrome, baseball fields, barbeque areas and playgrounds, there are also narrow, quiet trails filled with shade from dozens of tree species. These trails are ideal for a run, walk or bike ride on soft, flat terrain.

Be prepared for an occasional bunny or mouse along the way, as well as the wonderful scents of nature. Also stop by the lake to fish or see turtles resting on rocks, geese, and even cormorants. Located in the quieter part of Flushing, you can get here by taking the 7 train and/or a few different Queens buses.