Jayne's Hill

Jayne's Hill is a mountain summit in West Hills County Park on Long Island, reaching an elevation of approximately 400 feet (120 meters) above sea level. It stands as the highest natural point on the island, with established trails and a viewpoint where visitors can see across the surrounding landscape.

The hill was originally known as Oakley's High Hill Field, a name dating back to the early 19th century when it was first documented by local historians. Over time, the location became tied to efforts to protect it from development, shaping its role in the community's story.

A stone marker at the summit displays a poem by Walt Whitman, honoring his ties to this location and the surrounding region. The marker draws visitors who come to read the verse and connect with the literary history embedded in the landscape.

The summit is accessible via the Walt Whitman trail, a well-marked white-blazed path that leads through the park and is easy to follow. Parking is available nearby, making it convenient for visitors of varying hiking experience.

In the 1980s, activists and local residents rallied to stop construction of a radio tower on the summit, physically blocking equipment to protect the site. This overlooked chapter in the hill's story shows how the community has defended this place against unwanted development.