best places for off-leash hiking with your doodle

[New York Labradoodles]

Since the weather is supposed to be so nice in southern NY this weekend, I want to take my dogs hiking. Does anyone know of some good off-leash parks or trails that are reasonably close to Manhattan? I went hiking in Harriman State Park last year and there were some dogs in my group. They were off-leash, but I checked the state website and it says dogs must be leashed - are these rules usually enforced?

[Joan and Rags]

Hi Jane,
I know you had asked this before, I guess my answer wasn't helpful... I'm sorry. Let me try again. It has been my experience, that most New York state, and city parks, require leashing your dog. Unless it is during designated hours. Anyway, the rules are not enforced, as long as their are no problems with your dog. Most people leash their dogs until they feel comfortable (NO Park Rangers around) and then they take their dog off leash (just like at Harriman) For example, I have recently started walking Rags in Forest Park, they have great day hikes, bikers and horses are also welcome there. The first couple of times I kept her on leash, but then I noticed other dog owners off leashing it. So I knew it was safe, I took Rags off leash and we had a great walk. I put her on leash when we saw the horses, but that was just b/c I didn't want to make anyone or horse nervous. My point is no one is going to say it is legal, but if you don't ask, no one will tell. I hope this was more helpful. If anyone knows something or somewhere in New York that it is different please let me know, I have been looking for the same thing for two years. Joan