I like Stewart forest for both walking and GeoCaching as there are A LOT of caches in this forest. A word of caution I will say please be sure to check postings at parking lot if you visit during winter months because while the property is not chained/closed the forest is closed certain times of year in the winter for hunting. While you might find people still walking into the forest during hunting season they do so at their own risk. Hunters do sit out there at appropriate (legal) times of the year waiting for their prey. I warn because I didn't realize this and had a hunter warn me sternly that I was unintentionally putting myself at risk when the forest was off limits to hiking, walking & biking.
The hunting warning aside the forest really is massive in size but I wouldn't call it difficult at all to walk. I could say it's a great beginner hiking spot since the elevation gain throughout the forest is well below 1K. I've hit some decent points but nothing like hiking an actual mountain.
The forest I believe has something like over 20 miles of trails for foot, hiking and even horse back riding traffic. Some portions are swampy areas so be cautious where you step if you venture off the beaten path.
There is no official NY/NJ trail map that I could find but NYS does provide a free map you can print out in advance. Stay safe and have fun!
Info & Maps: https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/50095.html read more