Philipsburg Manor is a historic site of great historical importance. Once the headquarters of a large Hudson Valley manor, the site vividly interprets aspects of the history of colonial New York and the system of racially-based slavery which helped keep the estate running in the 18th century. The visitor center at Philipsburg, located on Rt. 9 in the village of Sleepy Hollow, offers a wide range of services and changing exhibitions, and also serves as the visitor center for Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate.
Philipsburg Manor is a late 17th/early 18th-century milling, farming, and trading complex owned by an Anglo-Dutch family of merchants. Philipsburg Manor was tenanted by farmers of diverse European backgrounds, and operated by enslaved Africans. In 1693, Frederick Philipse, a carpenter who rose to become the richest man in the colony of New York, was granted a charter for 52,000 acres along the Hudson River by William and Mary of England. Historically, the site is of particular interest because of the size of the enslaved community and the highly developed nature of this 18th-century commercial property.
Featuring a stone manor house filled with a handsome collection of 17th-and 18th-century period furnishings, this famous house also includes a working water-powered gristmill and millpond, an 18th-century barn, a slave garden, and a reconstructed tenant farm house. The grounds are home to historic breeds of cattle, sheep, and chickens.
Points of Interest: Philipsburg Manor is a living history museum. Guides in 18th-century costume conduct tours of the site and numerous special events are held throughout the year. One of many fun things to do with children in the Hudson River Valley.
Attractions include: The Greenhouse Cafe, Picnic grounds, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery located next to Philipsburg Manor, Tours of Kykuit that originate at the Philipsburg Manor Visitor Tourist Center.
Wampus Pond Park, 102-acres in size, is located at Route 128, Armonk NY 10504, Westchester County. Wampus Pond is named after the Indian from whom this land was bought in 1696. Wampus Pond means “opossum". A recent cultural resources inventory performed by Parker Harrington indicates that early 20th century rock shelters, several Native American artifacts and remnants of historically significant residential developments were found within or near the park.
The natural pond, at one time known as Wampus Lake Reservoir, was once part of the New York City water supply. In 1963 the County bought Wampus pond and 93-acres from the City of New York.
Things To Do Boating Boat Rental (summer weekends) Fishing Ice-Skating Nature Study Picnicking
Westmoreland Sanctuary is located at West 260 Chestnut Ridge Road, Bedford Corners, NY 10549, Westchester County, in the Hudson Valley. Westmoreland Sanctuary is a reconstructed 200 year-old building serving as a museum and nature center. The central room is used as an auditorium for public, school and scout programs and its periphery and second story balcony contains exhibits of flora and fauna of Westchester County.
Nearby is an outdoor lecture area, a center for maple sugaring, old cemetery, wildlife garden and composting demonstration area. Located just outside the museum is the entrance to the Easy Loop Trail. This trailhead is the beginning of more than 7 miles of trails. The trails lead visitors past the many rocky cliffs, ponds and streams within the boundaries of Westmoreland. Please visit our KIOSK located in the parking area for your trail map.
Our primary focus is the great variety of programs which are offered each year. Westmoreland has over 30 programs for school and scouts during the week. These programs are mainly hands-on and participatory. Programs include Bluebird house building, bird banding with live native birds, insects, pond study and mammals. At various times each year, the staff of Westmoreland conducts a number of ongoing study programs. These studies include:
Management of Eastern Bluebird fields and nesting boxes Wood Duck house monitoring Turtle Monitoring Program
Press blue button for more about the trails and programs at Westmoreland.
Things To Do 7 miles of trails (rocky cliffs, ponds, streams) Birding Hands-on programs Hiking / Walking
Beaver Dam Sanctuary Park, off Harris Road, is located in the hamlet of Bedford Hills NY 10507, Westchester County. Beaver Dam Park is one of several parks in the municipality of Bedford.
Things To Do Hiking and Walking Trails Natural Areas
Westmoreland Sanctuary is located at West 260 Chestnut Ridge Road, Bedford Corners, NY 10549, Westchester County, in the Hudson Valley. Westmoreland Sanctuary is a reconstructed 200 year-old building serving as a museum and nature center. The central room is used as an auditorium for public, school and scout programs and its periphery and second story balcony contains exhibits of flora and fauna of Westchester County.
Nearby is an outdoor lecture area, a center for maple sugaring, old cemetery, wildlife garden and composting demonstration area. Located just outside the museum is the entrance to the Easy Loop Trail. This trailhead is the beginning of more than 7 miles of trails. The trails lead visitors past the many rocky cliffs, ponds and streams within the boundaries of Westmoreland. Please visit our KIOSK located in the parking area for your trail map.
Our primary focus is the great variety of programs which are offered each year. Westmoreland has over 30 programs for school and scouts during the week. These programs are mainly hands-on and participatory. Programs include Bluebird house building, bird banding with live native birds, insects, pond study and mammals. At various times each year, the staff of Westmoreland conducts a number of ongoing study programs. These studies include:
Management of Eastern Bluebird fields and nesting boxes Wood Duck house monitoring Turtle Monitoring Program
Press blue button for more about the trails and programs at Westmoreland.
Things To Do 7 miles of trails (rocky cliffs, ponds, streams) Birding Hands-on programs Hiking / Walking
Pinecliff Sanctuary is located at Pinecliff Road, off Route 120, Chappaqua, NY in Westchester County. Pinecliff Sanctuary offers a quarter mile wheelchair accessible boardwalk over and around a red maple swamp. Pinecliff was first protected by the New Castle Land Conservancy.
The wetlands of Pinecliff Sanctuary improve water quality, prevent flooding and provide habitat for wildlife and plants. An additional short woodland trail connects to the boardwalk loop and circles the ridge between the sanctuary and the Saw Mill River Parkway. Enjoy strolling, birding, wildflowers and quiet views over the surrounding wetland.
Pinecliff Sanctuary is often visited by school and community groups. With advance notice, we may be able to provide your group with a guided tour. Even if your group wishes to visit without a guide, please contact us in advance.
Pruyn Sanctuary Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden is located at 275 Millwood Road (Route 133), Chappaqua, NY in Westchester County. Pruyn Sanctuary is a demonstration garden within a six-acre native arboretum surrounded by a 92-acre parcel of protected open space. The garden features over 125 types of annual and perennial flowering plants selected to be food or nectar plants for butterflies, honey bees and hummingbirds. A drip pool attracts birds. Over 40 species of butterflies and moths, and three dozen species of birds are drawn to the garden.
The garden is within the four acre Pruyn Arboretum and meadow that has over 40 species of labeled trees and shrubs. A map and plant list of the arboretum is available. The Pruyn Garden is specially designed and maintained as a habitat to attract, nourish and shelter a variety of butterflies and moths, and ruby-throated hummingbirds. The plants are labeled and a plant list is available. The best time to view butterflies and hummingbirds is warm, sunny summer days during midday. Press blue button for more information about Pruyn Sanctuary Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden.
Things To Do Birding (Butterflies, Hummingbirds) Hiking Nature Walks Quiet Views
Saw Mill River Audubon is a local organization with members from twenty communities in Westchester County, New York. Members of Saw Mill River Audubon are part of a dynamic, involved community of people who love the outdoors and desire to learn more about and protect the natural world. We have worked for over fifty years to protect natural ecosystems through education, advocacy, and habitat conservation. We were chartered as a chapter of National Audubon Society in 1953.
Through the work of dedicated members, board, staff, and visionary donors, Saw Mill River Audubon is recognized as a leader in environmental education and conservation in the region. Saw Mill River Audubon owns eight separate sanctuaries protecting over 300-acres of critical wildlife habitat in Westchester County. People appreciate our sanctuaries for their natural beauty and places "to get away from it all" right in their own communities.
From its inception, Saw Mill River Audubon has had a strong focus on environmental education. Each year, we bring our school-based education programs to 8,000 kindergarten through college students and offer free natural history programs and field trips to adults and families. You are invited to come to our free public programs and field trips, visit our sanctuaries and add your voice to ours to protect the natural world. Press blue button for more information about Saw Mill River Audubon.
Hudson Highlands Gateway Park Cortlandt, Westchester County Hudson River Valley, New York State
This 352-acre park is one of the last large undeveloped land parcels in Westchester County.
Hudson Highlands Gateway Park, threatened twice by dense residential development, was protected in 1998 when a coalition of more than 35 groups representing homeowners, the community, government agencies and several environmental organizations united to preserve this 352-acre site. The Coalition to Preserve the Hudson Highlands Gateway raised $6 million to buy the parcel. In May 2000, The Scenic Hudson Land Trust, the Town of Cortlandt and Westchester County purchased the property.
Things To Do The park features a network of 4 trails, totaling more than 4.9 miles, rambling through woodlands, meadows and around ponds and offers several options for scenic loop hikes including a one-mile loop that is partly handicap accessible.
Hiking / Walking Trails Nature Study Scenic Views
Directions Off Route 9 in Annsville, take Highland Avenue and turn left on Sprout Brook Road. Two parking areas are available; one is temporarily shared with Sprout Brook Park, 0.3 miles from the intersection of Sprout Brook Road and Highland Avenue, just past and on the same side as the athletic fields. Cross road and enter park through the gap in guardrail. Universally accessible parking area is at the end or Doris Lee Drive. Park on gravel in front of fence.
Teatown is located in the hills and highlands of New York’s Hudson Valley. This bioregion includes parts of five counties: Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland and Orange. Nearly 80% of the region lies east of the Hudson River in Westchester and Putnam counties. About 785,000 people share the 936-square-mile area with a rich diversity of habitats, plant and animals. The nationally-acclaimed Hudson River Estuary and majestic Hudson Highlands form the region’s backbone.
Teatown Lake Reservation is a nonprofit, environmental organization with an 834-acre nature preserve and education center located in the Lower Hudson Valley in the Towns of Yorktown, Cortlandt, and New Castle, New York.
Located in the heart of the Lower Hudson Valley’s Hudson Hills and Highlands bioregion, Teatown is the largest nonprofit nature preserve in Westchester County. About 28,000 people come each year to attend an education program, visit the Nature Center, hike our trails, or tour Wildflower Island, a two-acre island sanctuary located within Teatown Lake that is home to over 230 native and endangered species of wildflowers.
Teatown’s educators offer adult, family and children’s programs to over 18,000 participants annually, including nearly 9,000 school children and 700 summer campers. Annually, over 10,000 hikers traverse Teatown's 15 miles of scenic trails that span abundant fields, mixed forests, lakes, streams, swamps and farm land.
Things To Do Children's Events Diverse Habitats Hiking Trails (15 miles) Nature Center Outdoor Animal Exhibits Wildflower Island - over 230 native species of wildflowers
The Trailside Nature Museum is located at the 4,315-acre Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, the county’s largest park. Park terrain is extremely varied, ranging from deep hollows to ridges that rise up more than 800 feet. There are hemlock gorges, dry uplands, wetlands, ponds, and two rivers, all connected by 35 miles of trails. Many of the old farm roads are now used as hiking and cross-country ski trails, and other signs of the old farms exist in the form of stonewalls, foundations and cellar pits.
The Trailside Nature Museum, established in 1937, is one of the oldest of its kind in the United States. The museum is home to a large collection of mounted animals, American Indian artifacts, educational exhibits, child-friendly interactive displays, and nature-oriented artwork. The museum hosts thousands of school children and scouts each year for a variety of educational programs including stream study, American Indian culture, maple sugaring, and badge work. Family-oriented nature programs are scheduled for the general public on nearly every weekend.
The Trailside Nature Museum is also the home of the Delaware Indian Research Center, a vast collection of books and artifacts concerning American Indians, especially the Delaware. The Research Center is well utilized by both students and educators and has assisted several authors in researching their publications. The Research Center is open to the public by appointment.
Point of Interest: Directly outside the Trailside Nature Museum, there is a one-half acre wildflower garden containing more than 80 different kinds of labeled wildflowers.
Things To Do Birding Camping Fishing Hiking / Walking Nature Programs Picnicking Self Guided Nature Trails
Brinton Brook Sanctuary is located in Croton-on-Hudson, Westchester County, NY in the Hudson River Valley. Brinton Brook Sanctuary offers three miles of hiking trails through a wide variety of habitats. The trails of Brinton Brook Sanctuary connect to the Highland Trail, part of the Croton-on-Hudson village trail system. Brinton Brook is a good place to enjoy hiking, birding, wildflowers and scenic vistas.
Brinton Brook is our largest sanctuary and was the first managed by Saw Mill River Audubon. Management rights to an additional 27-acres were obtained from the Village of Croton-on-Hudson in 1998 raising the total area to 156 acres. Press blue button for trail maps and more about Brinton Brook Sanctuary.
Things To Do Birding Guided Tours Hiking Nature Walks
Croton Point Nature Center & Discovery Trail
914-862-5297
The Croton Point Nature Center and Discovery Trail are located in the 504-acre Croton Point Park is situated on the largest peninsula of the Hudson River in Croton-on-Hudson. The scenic discovery trail winds its way through the park, enabling visitors to explore the Croton Point's many plant and wildlife species, including painted turtles and a variety of frogs, as well as its unique historical features.
The Croton Point Nature Center located on the northwest tip of the park, displays exhibits about the Hudson River, local history, flora and fauna, and archeology. The center hosts weekly programs, including nature walks, presentation on area history, and arts and crafts workshops. The center is also the headquarters for the Material Archives and Laboratory for Archaeology.
There are four miles of Hudson River shoreline to explore. The park, which also winter Bald Eagles, is an Important Bird Area (IBA). A capped landfill is now a vast meadow abundant in species of birds and butterflies. The park's historical structures are designated as a historic district.
Special Interest: Treaty Oak Monument, Meadow, Brickyard Excavation, Teller's Point and English Yews, Croton Bay, The Wine Cellars, Conifer Forest
Things To Do Birding Cultural History Programs Hiking / Walking Historic District Nature Study
Graff Sanctuary is located at Furnace Dock Road, Croton-on-Hudson, NY in Westchester County. Graff Sanctuary is a protected woodland ridge overlooking the Hudson River. Highlights of Graff Sanctuary are the mature forest with large tulip trees and sugar maples. Great horned owls nest at Graff Sanctuary.
Graff Sanctuary is a good place to enjoy hiking, birding, and scenic views over the surrounding woodland. Graff Sanctuary is a protected woodland ridge overlooking the Hudson River. Press blue button for trail maps and more about Graff Sanctuary.
Things To Do Birding Nature walks Walking / Hiking
Van Cortlandt Manor, situated on the banks of the Croton River in Croton-on-Hudson, New York, is a working estate and elegant country house that brings the new nation period vividly to life. The history of the estate is richly documented and the manor house contains primarily original furnishings, which provides an element of authenticity rarely seen in house museums.
A National Historic Landmark, the 18th-century stone manor house is the centerpiece of the property. It features a fine collection of Georgian and Federal period furnishings, many original to Van Cortlandt Manor. Of particular note is an extraordinary kitchen on the ground floor, with original hearth, beehive oven, and extensive collection of cooking equipment and utensils. Also on the grounds is an 18th-century tavern situated on the historic Albany Post Road at the site of a ferry crossing over the Croton River. The tavern showcases an extraordinary collection of vernacular Hudson River Valley furnishings and evokes fascinating tales of travel and transport in the post-revolutionary period. Press blue button for photos and more information about Van Cortlandt Manor.
Attractions Gardens Guided tours of the house and grounds Stone manor house Tenant farmer's house and tavern
The word is Great fun for the kids and children of all ages, as costumed guides demonstrate and invite visitors to try blacksmithing, brick making, open-hearth cooking and more from the past.
Oscawana Island Nature Preserve is located at Furnace Dock Road, Off Route 9, Cortlandt 10567. Oscawana is a natural Hudson River waterfront park that is bisected by Furnace Dock Road and the Hudson Division Railroad Line. Oscawana Island lies along the Hudson River. This is an excellent spot for birding and possibly sighting a Bald Eagle in winter. The park also has tidal marshlands frequented by Least Bittern and a newly grown forest that contains a river flowing through the mid-northern section.
To find Oscawana Island: Take Route 9 to the Montrose/Bucannan exit. Furnace Dock Road is just south of the exit on Route 9A. Take Furnace Dock Road 1.1 miles to the parking area. Listen for Least bittern near the parking area. A trail leads to the island. The main trail leads over the railroad tracks to the Hudson River.
Twin Lakes Park & Nature Study is located at California Road, Eastchester, New York. Twin Lakes offers a wooded nature study area with several trails. Twin Lakes Park was named after the two lakes on the property. The property used to belong to the Mahlsted family and included an icehouse. The park contains mostly wooded areas but there are also fields and marshlands and several ponds. Two stables hire out horses for riding on existing bridle trails.
Things To Do Equestrian Trails Fishing Hiking / Walking Nature Study Stables
Choate Sanctuary is located at Crow Hill Road and Route 133, 1 mile west of Mount Kisco. Highlights of Choate Sanctuary are the many unusual rock outcroppings and the mature forest with large tulip trees, red oak and red maple. Choate Sanctuary is a good place to enjoy hiking, birding, and quiet views over the surrounding woodland. Dogs are permitted on leashes. Press blue button for more information about Choate Sanctuary.
Things To Do Birding Hiking Nature Center Scenic Views
Willson's Woods Park is located at East Lincoln Avenue, Mount Vernon NY 10550, Westchester County. Willson's Woods is one of the oldest parks in Westchester County. Willson’s Woods is a 23-acre park offering a beautiful swimming pool and adjacent English Tudor style bathhouse along with areas for picnicking and fishing.
Point of Interest: A special feature of Willson's Woods Park is "Willson's Waves" where you can body surf on 3-foot waves in the county's first-ever wave pool. Splash downward on an 18-foot-high water slide, wander through cascades and fountains in the water playground, or just cool off on the spray deck.
Things To Do Fishing Hiking Trails Nature Study Picnicking Playground Refreshments Willson's Waves
Haas Sanctuary, a 14-acre sanctuary, is located on the eastern edge of the Town of New Castle south of Mount Kisco. Haas Sanctuary was first protected by the New Castle Land Conservancy which merged with Saw Mill River Audubon in 1975. Highlights of Haas Sanctuary are the beautiful rock formations, large tulip and sugar maple trees, and a native meadow along Sheather Road.
Things To Do Birding Nature walks Tulip and Sugar Maple Trees
Teatown is located in the hills and highlands of New York’s Hudson Valley. This bioregion includes parts of five counties: Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland and Orange. Nearly 80% of the region lies east of the Hudson River in Westchester and Putnam counties. About 785,000 people share the 936-square-mile area with a rich diversity of habitats, plant and animals. The nationally-acclaimed Hudson River Estuary and majestic Hudson Highlands form the region’s backbone.
Teatown Lake Reservation is a nonprofit, environmental organization with an 834-acre nature preserve and education center located in the Lower Hudson Valley in the Towns of Yorktown, Cortlandt, and New Castle, New York.
Located in the heart of the Lower Hudson Valley’s Hudson Hills and Highlands bioregion, Teatown is the largest nonprofit nature preserve in Westchester County. About 28,000 people come each year to attend an education program, visit the Nature Center, hike our trails, or tour Wildflower Island, a two-acre island sanctuary located within Teatown Lake that is home to over 230 native and endangered species of wildflowers.
Teatown’s educators offer adult, family and children’s programs to over 18,000 participants annually, including nearly 9,000 school children and 700 summer campers. Annually, over 10,000 hikers traverse Teatown's 15 miles of scenic trails that span abundant fields, mixed forests, lakes, streams, swamps and farm land.
Things To Do Children's Events Diverse Habitats Hiking Trails (15 miles) Nature Center Outdoor Animal Exhibits Wildflower Island - over 230 native species of wildflowers
Davenport Park, 20-acres in size, is located on Davenport Avenue in New Rochelle NY 10801, Westchester County. This is a passive recreation area overlooking Long Island Sound. This park is ideal for sunbathing, walking, sitting or reading a book. Contains a Shakespeare Garden. Valid omnicards are required year round.
Things To Do Seasonal Sled Riding Scenic Views Sunbathing Walking
Feeney Park
914-654-2087
Feeney Park is located at 7th Street and Washington Avenue, New Rochelle NY 10801, Westchester County. Feeney Park offers a playground for children, walking path, flower garden and benches.
Things To Do Benches Flower Garden Playground Walking Path
Five Islands Park
914-654-2087
Five Islands Park, 15-acres in size, is located off LeFevre Lane in New Rochelle, NY 10801, Westchester County. Five Islands Park has a large grassy area, sunbather's beach, picnic areas, pavilion, large playground for children, outdoor amphitheater, also ideal for nature walks. A pedestrian bridge links Big and Little Harrison Island to the main Oakwood Island. This beautiful park has barbeque pits, picnic tables, benches and open air pavilions for rent and a dock for fishing. Valid omnicards are required year round.
Things To Do Amphitheater Outdoors Fishing on Dock Horseshoe Courts Large grassy area Nature walks Pavilion Picnicking Playground Shuffleboard Sunbather's Beach
Stephenson Park
914-654-2087
Stephenson Park is located on Stephenson Blvd. and Lyons Place, New Rochelle NY 10801, Westchester County. The park offers a playground for children, basketball court, walking path, flower garden and benches.
Things To Do Basketball Court Benches Flower Garden Playground Walking Path
The Hammond Museum was designed by Natalie Hays Hammond who borrowed the basic principles and ideas of the Stroll Garden incorporating indigenous plantings with popular and rare Japanese and Chinese specimens. "As people often travel to escape routine problems and obligations, or to escape themselves, so should they find peace in an unhurried journey through a stroll garden."
"To please the eye, there are the textures of stone scrolled with the delicate designs of lichen, the patterns of tree trunks and clusters of foliage, the play of light and shadow, the varying shades of green as well as the seasonal colors of great beauty. To please the ear, there are the songs of native birds, the hum of insects the chorale of frogs and the occasional splash of carp in the lake, the crunch of pebbles underfoot, the whisper of wind through the pines. To please the sense of scent, there are dry pine needles in the sun, the fragrance of flowering shrubs, a breeze through mimosa or the pungency of loam after a night rain."
Things To Do Birding Brush Painting Children's Workshops Educational Tours Restaurant Stroll Garden
Mountain Lakes Park is located at Hawley Road, North Salem NY 10560, Westchester County and is Westchester’s northernmost county park. It is set on 1038-acres and is characterized by a rugged landscape and native hardwood forest with miles of trails. Situated in this lovely park is Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester. Mt. Baily offers breathtaking vistas in every season. The park offers many types of recreational activities including boating, group and self-reliant camping.
Things To Do Boating Camping Fishing Hiking Trails Mt. Bailey (Westchester's Highest Point) Nature Study
Pelham Country Club is located at 940 Wynnewood Road, Pelham Manor, NY 10803. One of Pelham Country Club's premier attractions is its 18-hole par 71 championship golf course. The Devereux Emmet designed course presents a wide variety of challenging holes. It boasts a 133 slope rating for men and a 137 slope rating for women. Press blue button for more about golfing at Pelham Country Club.
Golf Course Attractions Country Club 18-hole regulation length course Blue tees = 6400 yards / par 71 Course rating / slope = 70.4 / 133 Greens = Bent grass Guests = closed _____________________
Club rental Caddies Dress code Driving range Golf carts Lessons Locker rooms Manicured chipping and putting greens Pro shop Practice hole Restaurant
Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate, is now a historic site of the National Trust. Many believe it is the Hudson Valley's most exceptional house and gardens. Be sure to include this magnificent landmark on any tour of the Historic Hudson Valley.
Completed in 1913 for John D. Rockefeller by architects Delano and Aldrich, Kykuit has been home to four generations of the Rockefeller family. Kykuit commands a breathtaking view of the Hudson River and occupies a landscape of extensive stone terraces, formal gardens, and glorious fountains designed by landscape architect William Welles Bosworth. The gardens include Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller's extraordinary collection of 20th-century sculpture. The house itself contains fascinating collections of art, fine furniture, and Chinese ceramics. Horse-drawn vehicles and classic automobiles from the family's collection fill the coach barn.
Tours include an introduction to each part of Kykuit, the main floor of the house, the art galleries, terraced gardens with classical and 20th-century sculpture, and the Coach Barn with antique carriages and classic cars. The sculpture collection, sited throughout the grounds, includes works by Pablo Picasso, Aristide Maillol, Henry Moore, Alexander Calder, Isamu Noguchi, Louise Nevelson, and many others.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve is located in Pocantico Hills in Westchester County. The preserve is 1,233-acres and growing due to additional bequests. The Preserve is an idyllic spot for strolling, jogging, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. With 180 recorded species of birds and its IBA (Important Bird Area) designation by the National Audubon Society, the Preserve is a must visit area for birders.
In season, licensed anglers enjoy fishing for bass in the 22-acre Swan Lake and for brown trout in the Pocantico River. In addition the beauty of the Preserve inspires many artists and photographers to memorialize its scenic vistas. While in the park, stop in the Preserve's Gallery across from the Visitor Center. Its rotating exhibits feature the art of local artists.
The most notable feature of the Preserve is the system of carriage roads built by John D. Rockefeller Sr. and John D. Rockefeller Jr. Designed to complement the landscape, the carriage roads, many of which are handicapped accessible, allow visitors to experience and enjoy the natural wonders of the area. These scenic paths wind through wetlands, woodlands, meadows, and fields and past streams, rivers, and lakes. They traverse wood and stone bridges, including the first triple arch bridge in America.
Strictly Prohibited Hunting, swimming, biking, snowmobiling, camping, and open fires are strictly prohibited.
Things To Do Birding - designated an IBA (Important Bird Area) Bridle Path Fishing Hiking Nature Trail Picnic Tables Scenic Views
The 4,315-acre park makes Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Westchester County’s largest park. The Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is divided in area between both Pound Ridge and Lewisboro. The northern one-third of the park is in Lewisboro and the remaining two-thirds of the park are in Pound Ridge.
With its varied terrain, landscapes and miles of wooded trails, the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides a variety of activities in all seasons. There are areas for picnicking, lean-to camping, fishing and cross-country skiing. The park is home to the Trailside Nature Museum, which hosts weekend nature interpretive programs year-round.
Things To Do Camping Equestrian Trails & Horseback Riding Fishing Gardens Hiking & Walking Trails Museum Nature Study Picnicking Play equipment is available in two areas of the park
The Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Gardens is located at 700 and 735 Anderson Hill Road, PepsiCo headquarters in Purchase, NY, Westchester County in the Hudson River Valley. The Sculpture Gardens and the Purchase campus of SUNY are across the street from each other. Visit the sculptures and gardens and see works by Alexander Calder, Joan Miró, Alberto Giacometti, Henry Moore, George Segal, Jean Dubuffet, Auguste Rodin, Max Ernst, and more artists.
The sculpture gardens feature 45 sculptures by some of the best-known artists of the 20th century. Capricorn,” Max Ernst’s largest freestanding sculpture is among the inspiring works. The grounds themselves are 168-acres of green lawns, trees, ponds, fountains, and landscaped gardens with a topiary, well-tended hedges, flower beds and water-lily ponds. These spectacular grounds were conceived as an integration of architecture, landscape, and sculpture. It is a landscape exhibiting superior thought and attention, a thorough knowledge of plants, a respect for what has come before, and a working effort to remain true to a vision.
Things To Do Visit the beautiful 168-acre Sculpture Gardens
The Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary and Nature Center is a 179-acre park located on the shore of the Long Island Sound, along a migratory flyway. This sanctuary is home to a great diversity of marine life. In winter months, the 85-acre lake, a mixture of salt and fresh water, hosts over 5,000 ducks. The sanctuary has been recognized by the national Audubon Society of New York as an Important Bird Area (IBA). There are three miles of trails through forest and field. Along the half-mile of publicly accessible shore, the intertidal habitat harbors a wide diversity of plants and animals. Environmental education programs are offered to schools, scouts and other groups by advance reservation. Group size is limited to 30, and there is a modest fee based on group size and length of program. Topics can be tailored to the needs and interests of the group and include: intertidal ecology, marine biology, plant science and ornithology.
To View Site: The site is at the Edith G. Read Natural Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in the City of Rye. To get to the sanctuary, enter through Playland Park and follow the signs to the sanctuary.
Things To Do Birding Hiking / Walking Nature Study Programs
Marshlands Conservancy is a 173-acre wildlife sanctuary composed of a diversity of habitats. Forest, meadow, salt marsh and shore can be explored and appreciated here. There are three miles of trails and one-half mile of shoreline along the Long Island Sound. Located along the Atlantic migratory flyway, Marshlands is an excellent bird watching location; more than 230 species have been sited. The Marshlands salt marsh is one of few in New York accessible to the public for study and enjoyment.
Things To Do Birding Hiking / Walking Nature Study Programs
The Greenburgh Nature Center (GNC) is located at 99 Dromore Road, off Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale NY 10583, Westchester County in the Hudson Valley. The Greenburgh Nature Center (GNC) is a 33-acre nature preserve with trails, a pond, an old orchard succession site, and gardens. The property is a significant wildlife habitat refuge, both for indigenous species and for the hundreds of species of migratory birds that use it as a resting place on their spring and fall travels. The property includes 30-acres of woodland, two significant wetland sites, and an old orchard succession site, used as a nesting area for Eastern box turtles.
Parties, Programs and Special Events The Nature Center hosts birthday parties and special programs for groups of all ages on a wide range of environmental topics. We offer numerous outreach and on-site environmental education programs for children, adults, and families. Bring the children; kids of all ages enjoy learning about nature. Press blue button to learn more about the Greenburgh Nature Center.
Things To Do Botanical Exhibits Greenhouse Hands-on Discovery Room Live Animal Museum Maple Sugaring Site
Philipsburg Manor is a historic site of great historical importance. Once the headquarters of a large Hudson Valley manor, the site vividly interprets aspects of the history of colonial New York and the system of racially-based slavery which helped keep the estate running in the 18th century. The visitor center at Philipsburg, located on Rt. 9 in the village of Sleepy Hollow, offers a wide range of services and changing exhibitions, and also serves as the visitor center for Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate.
Philipsburg Manor is a late 17th/early 18th-century milling, farming, and trading complex owned by an Anglo-Dutch family of merchants. Philipsburg Manor was tenanted by farmers of diverse European backgrounds, and operated by enslaved Africans. In 1693, Frederick Philipse, a carpenter who rose to become the richest man in the colony of New York, was granted a charter for 52,000 acres along the Hudson River by William and Mary of England. Historically, the site is of particular interest because of the size of the enslaved community and the highly developed nature of this 18th-century commercial property.
Featuring a stone manor house filled with a handsome collection of 17th-and 18th-century period furnishings, this famous house also includes a working water-powered gristmill and millpond, an 18th-century barn, a slave garden, and a reconstructed tenant farm house. The grounds are home to historic breeds of cattle, sheep, and chickens.
Points of Interest: Philipsburg Manor is a living history museum. Guides in 18th-century costume conduct tours of the site and numerous special events are held throughout the year. One of many fun things to do with children in the Hudson River Valley.
Attractions include: The Greenhouse Cafe, Picnic grounds, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery located next to Philipsburg Manor, Tours of Kykuit that originate at the Philipsburg Manor Visitor Tourist Center.
Lasdon Park, Arboretum and Veterans Memorial, located on Route 35 in Somers, NY, Westchester County, is a magnificent 234-acre property consisting of woodlands, open grass meadow and formal gardens with flower and shrub specimens from all over the world. Lasdon is also the site of the Chinese Friendship Pavilion and four inspirational memorials and a museum honoring Westchester veterans.
The house that presently stands on this property was built in 1933 by Dr. Voislawsky after the original Van Cortlandt dwelling was destroyed by a fire. This three-story Colonial style mansion was modeled after George Washington’s Virginia home, Mount Vernon . . .
Enjoy the wonderful Midsummer Night Music Series featuring varied fare of classical, show tunes and more. Spend a magical evening under the stars and listen to the “Midsummer Night Music” concerts featuring the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra on four Saturdays this summer at Lasdon Park, Arboretum and Veterans Memorial in Somers. Each concert will feature varied and exciting musical fare to appeal to music aficionados of all kinds, so pack a picnic supper, sit back and enjoy the music.
Things To Do Botanical Specimens Chinese Friendship Pavilion Formal Gardens Open Grass Meadow
Midsummer Night Music concerts at Lasdon Park
Gates open at 5 pm for picnicking; the music begins at 6 pm. Tickets will be sold at the gate on the evening of the performance. In case of rain, concerts will be cancelled. Call for tickets prices.
Friends of the Rockefeller State Park Preserve, Inc., located in Sleepy Hollow, New York, was established in 1997 to encourage public participation in protecting the Preserve's wildlife and habitat, sustaining its historical and archeological features, and maintaining its unique system of carriage roads.
Click to enlarge photo of Lyndhurst from rear grounds.
Circa 1838. Lyndhurst, a historic site of the National Trust, is a preeminent architectural landmark. It resides on a 67-acre park representing 19th century architecture, decorative arts, and landscape. Overlooking the Hudson River in Tarrytown, NY, Lyndhurst is one of America's finest Gothic Revival mansions. The architectural brilliance of the residence is complemented by a park-like landscape and a comprehensive collection of original decorative arts. Its noteworthy occupants included: former New York City mayor William Paulding, merchant George Merritt, and the railroad magnate and Wall Street tycoon Jay Gould.
In the late 1830s, William Paulding acquired property high above the Hudson River overlooking the Tappan Zee. Lyndhurst was first conceived in the minds of architects A. J. Davis and William Paulding who constructed the country villa in 1838 and called it "Knoll". In 1864 Lyndhurst was acquired by George Merritt who hired Davis to more than double its size. In 1870, they also built one of the largest private greenhouses in the world.
In 1880, Jay Gould purchased the estate and renamed it Lyndhurst. The 1870 greenhouse that burned was replaced in the Gothic Revival style. The Goulds redecorated the house and embellished the spectacular art gallery with works by Corot, Courbet, Bouguereau, and others.
The important "gardenesque" landscape is the work of Ferdinand Mangold, a master gardener who worked at Lyndhurst for forty years. Many of the landscape features created by Mangold, his predecessors, and successors, are preserved. The spectacular specimen trees are of special interest.
The romantic Gothic Revival design immediately drew attention to the building. Critics called it "Paulding's Folly" because its fanciful turrets and asymmetrical outline were unlike most homes constructed in the post-colonial era. Fascination with the property continued for decades and, as ideas of wealth and status changed with the growing nation, so did the estate, reflecting the tastes and interests of wealthy New York.
Point of Interest: Lyndhurst is adjacent to Washington Irving's Sunnyside. The ability to walk between these two historic sites has a special appeal. At present, visitors may walk along the publicly maintained Croton Aqueduct Trail from Lyndhurst to West Sunnyside Lane. A pathway connecting Lyndhurst and Sunnyside along the riverfront will shortly be open. If you are a tourist or local resident exploring the Hudson River Valley, be sure to include this landmark in your list of sights.
Circa 1835. Historic site of the National Trust and architectural landmark. Meticulously restored picturesque home of renowned author Washington Irving, America's first successful, internationally known author. Washington Irving's writings include numerous works of fiction, history and biography.
Washington Irving was born in New York City on April 3, 1783 (1783 - 1859) as the youngest of 11 children. His father was a wealthy merchant, and his mother, an English woman, was the granddaughter of a clergyman. Early in his life Irving developed a passion for books. He studied law privately but practiced only briefly. From 1804 to 1806 he travelled widely in Europe. After returning to the United States, Irving was admitted to the New York bar in 1806.
Washington Irving was a short story writer, essayist, poet, travel book writer, biographer, and columnist. He is best known for the short stories "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and "Rip Van Winkle". Washington Irving also held diplomatic posts in Great Britain and Spain.
Sunnyside is one of the most famous historic landmarks in the Hudson Valley. This important house and landscape enjoys a quiet and unspoiled riverside setting in Tarrytown, New York. Sunnyside is adjacent to Lyndhurst, a historic landmark of distinction open to the public, to which it is possible to walk via the Croton Aqueduct Trail.
Sunnyside and its Romantic landscape are presented to visitors by guides dressed in the costume of the mid-Victorian period. You may take a guided tour of the house and grounds, or purchase a grounds-only ticket for a self-guided experience.
Point of Interest: For children, Sunnyside offers "Irving's Traveling Totes" that come stuffed with five to seven engaging family activities, a brief guide, a Talk Back card for feedback related to the activities, and a blank book for visitor responses. Visitors can learn about Washington Irving by reading The Legend of Sleepy Hollow picture book and It Looks Like Spilt Milk, which, though not written by Irving, celebrates the life of the imagination, something Irving aspired to do. Children can play the Sunnyside Matching Card game and join in for a Scavenger Hunt. Dominoes, a 19th-century game, rounds out the experience. If you are a tourist or local resident exploring the Hudson River Valley, be sure to include this landmark in your list of places to see.
Attractions include: Seasonal Café, Sunnyside Tours, Museum Shop, Picnic Grounds.
The Bronx River Parkway Reservation, one of Westchester’s oldest parks, is an 807-acre paved linear park that was created as an adjunct to the Bronx River Parkway that opened in 1925. The Reservation touts a number of “firsts”. It is the first linear park in Westchester, as well as one of the first in the country, and, the Bronx River Parkway was the first parkway in the nation. The Reservation also has the distinction of being the first official Westchester County Park, whose establishment led to the creation of today’s County Park System of more than 50 parks spanning nearly 18,000-acres. The picturesque Reservation, which runs through the heart of Southern Westchester County, features ponds, wooden footbridges, and hundreds of varieties of native trees and shrubs. It is a favorite place for bicycling, walking, running and nature study.
Things To Do Fishing Hiking Trails / Walking Ice skating Nature study Recreational Trail
The Cranberry Lake Nature Center is a 190-acre nature preserve comprised of forest, wetlands, and a 10-acre lake that was carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. There are three miles of trails, including a loop around the lake, and others that traverse the predominantly northern oak-hickory forest. The area is part of the Kensico Reservoir watershed, which provides drinking water for residents of Westchester County and New York City. The name Cranberry Lake is derived from the growth of wild cranberry, which still exist in various parts of the fen.
Things To Do Birding Children's Summer Ecology Program Hiking / Walking Nature Hikes Nature Interpretive Programs
Lenoir Preserve Nature Center is a 40-acre nature preserve comprised of woodlands and field habitats. It is situated adjacent to the Old Croton Aqueduct on slopes overlooking the Hudson River, providing spectacular views. The property was formerly home to two Hudson River estates and boasts a number of unusual specimen trees and shrubs, imported from around the world.
Every spring and autumn, bird watchers gather to observe major hawk migrations. Nature enthusiasts can learn about raptor identification markings, such as flight patterns and silhouettes, and can take part in official tracking counts of raptors. In summer, the butterfly garden is at its height, visited by a wide variety of butterflies. Nearby, a dragonfly pond provides the necessary habitat for numerous aquatic insects and attracts birds and other wildlife. An organic community gardening area and composting exhibit instruct visitors on environmentally- friendly practices. The butterfly and hummingbird garden is maintained entirely by volunteers from Hudson River Audubon Society.
Things To Do Birding Gardening Hiking / Walking Nature Study Programs
The Sprain Ridge Mountain Bike Trail in Yonkers offers cyclists a day of fresh air and exercise in a wooded and natural environment. Sprain Ridge Park is a large land preserve with a variety of landscapes, ranging from heavily wooded areas to large and impressive rock outcroppings. The park was previously owned by the Boyce Thompson Institute, a botanical research center, and a result, contains many unusual and exotic woodland plants.
The five miles of mountain bike trails at Sprain Ridge offer challenges to cyclists at every level of ability. The trails wind their way through 278-acres of varied terrain that offers challenges for beginner, intermediate and advanced cyclists. The beginner trail provides cyclists with challenging curves but a relatively level topography.
The intermediate and advanced trails provide experienced cyclists with more of a challenge with trails of increasing grades and challenging topography. There are picnic areas available near all three parking lots and a snack bar is open in season near the swimming pool
The Sprain Ridge Mountain Bike Trail in Yonkers offers cyclists a day of fresh air and exercise in a wooded and natural environment. Sprain Ridge Park is a large land preserve with a variety of landscapes, ranging from heavily wooded areas to large and impressive rock outcroppings. The park was previously owned by the Boyce Thompson Institute, a botanical research center, and a result, contains many unusual and exotic woodland plants.
The five miles of mountain bike trails at Sprain Ridge offer challenges to cyclists at every level of ability. The trails wind their way through 278-acres of varied terrain that offers challenges for beginner, intermediate and advanced cyclists. The beginner trail provides cyclists with challenging curves but a relatively level topography. The intermediate and advanced trails provide experienced cyclists with more of a challenge with trails of increasing grades and challenging topography.
There are picnic areas available near all three parking lots and a snack bar is open in season near the swimming pool area.
Things To Do Hiking Paths / Walking Mountain Biking Nature Study Picnicking Playground Refreshments Swimming
Teatown is located in the hills and highlands of New York’s Hudson Valley. This bioregion includes parts of five counties: Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland and Orange. Nearly 80% of the region lies east of the Hudson River in Westchester and Putnam counties. About 785,000 people share the 936-square-mile area with a rich diversity of habitats, plant and animals. The nationally-acclaimed Hudson River Estuary and majestic Hudson Highlands form the region’s backbone.
Teatown Lake Reservation is a nonprofit, environmental organization with an 834-acre nature preserve and education center located in the Lower Hudson Valley in the Towns of Yorktown, Cortlandt, and New Castle, New York.
Located in the heart of the Lower Hudson Valley’s Hudson Hills and Highlands bioregion, Teatown is the largest nonprofit nature preserve in Westchester County. About 28,000 people come each year to attend an education program, visit the Nature Center, hike our trails, or tour Wildflower Island, a two-acre island sanctuary located within Teatown Lake that is home to over 230 native and endangered species of wildflowers.
Teatown’s educators offer adult, family and children’s programs to over 18,000 participants annually, including nearly 9,000 school children and 700 summer campers. Annually, over 10,000 hikers traverse Teatown's 15 miles of scenic trails that span abundant fields, mixed forests, lakes, streams, swamps and farm land.
Things To Do Children's Events Diverse Habitats Hiking Trails (15 miles) Nature Center Outdoor Animal Exhibits Wildflower Island - over 230 native species of wildflowers
Thompson's Lake State Park is located at 68 Thompsons Lake Road, East Berne NY 12059, Albany in the Hudson Valley. Thompson's Lake State Park, nestled in the mountains just four miles from the Helderberg Escarpment, is a popular camping ground and recreation area. In addition to 140 wooded campsites, the park offers a sandy beach, mixed hardwood and conifer forests, limestone outcroppings and open fields. Recreational opportunities include a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, a playing field, swing-sets, carry-in boat access, rental row boats, fishing areas, and nature trails. Interpretive and recreational programs are offered for campers throughout the summer. During the winter, visitors can cross-country ski and ice fish.
The Emma Treadwell Thacher Center is located on Thompson's Lake next to the campground and is accessible to campers. The center opened in July 2001 and offers exhibits, interactive displays, trails for hiking and skiing, and educational programs. Boat Launch Site - Carry in Only
Press blue button for hours of operation, directions, fees and rates, and more about Thompson's Lake State Park.
Things to Do Beach (sandy beach) Boat Launches Boat Rentals Camper Recreation Campsites Fishing Hiking Horseshew Pits Nature Trails Picnic Tables Playgrounds Playing Fields Recreational Programs
John Boyd Thacher State Park is located at 1 Hailes Cave Road, Voorheesville NY 12186, Albany in the Hudson Valley. John Boyd Thacher State Park, is situated along the Helderberg Escarpment, one of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world. Even as it safeguards six miles of limestone cliff-face, rock-strewn slopes, woodland and open fields, the park provides a marvelous panorama of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondack and Green Mountains.
The park has volleyball courts, playgrounds, ball fields and numerous picnic areas with nine reservable shelters. Interpretive programs are offered year-round, including guided tours of the famous Indian Ladder Trail. There are over twelve additional miles of trails for summer hiking and mountain biking, and winter cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and snowmobiling.
Press blue button for hours of operation, directions, fees and rates, and more about John Boyd Thacher State Park.
Things to Do Biking Hiking Hunting Nature Trails Picnic Tables and Pavilions Playground Playing Fields Recreational Programs Waterfalls
Harrier Hill Park City of Hudson, Columbia County Hudson River Valley, New York State
This beautiful grassland offers splendid long-distance views of the Catskills and the Hudson River.
These protected acres in Columbia County include breathtaking meadows, wooded bluffs and a hay farm, all near the Stockport Flats Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve. With assistance from the state and Columbia Land Conservancy, we are safeguarding these valuable habitats while enabling people to hike the land and learn about wildlife. Park improvements currently underway include creation of a handicapped-accessible hiking trail and construction of an open-sided pavilion for picnicking and community-group activities.
Things To Do Hiking / Walking Nature Study Picnicking Scenic Views
Directions From Warren Street, City of Hudson: 4.8 miles north on Rte. 9, left on W. Atlantic Ave. at light, right on Rod & Gun Road. Follow Rod and Gun approximately 1/2 mile to entrance gate.
After a day of hiking, walking, or studying the wildlife, dine at one of the many excellent restaurants in Hudson, New York.
Mount Beacon Beacon, Dutchess County Hudson River Valley, New York State
Mount Beacon towers above Beacon and Fishkill at the northern gateway to the Hudson Highlands.
Mount Beacon is the most visible summit for miles around, providing the defining backdrop for local communities. Its prominence made the mountain an important factor in the Revolutionary War, when George Washington's troops set signal fires to communicate vital information about British troop movements.
The incline railway, the steepest of its kind in the world at the time, carried visitors to the heights of the mountain for dining, dancing and enjoying spectacular views, from 1902 until the late 1970s.
Mount Beacon Park was created on land preserved by Scenic Hudson in the City of Beacon and Town of Fishkill. Totaling 234 acres, the parcels were purchased in 1995 and 1998, respectively.
Things To Do Birding Hiking / Walking Trails Nature Study Picnicking Scenic Views
Directions Parking area and trailhead are located at the intersection of Route 9D and Howland Avenue in the City of Beacon.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and Mount Beacon.
Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park is a wonderful park for outdoor enthusiasts. This 14,086-acre park, covering land in Putnam and Dutchess counties, boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, scenic campground, and abundant opportunities for boating, hunting, fishing, and birding. On the hot days of summer, go swimming at the park's beautiful beach.
The park is also home to the Taconic Outdoor Education Center which provides high quality environmental programming. In the winter, you can enjoy the Fahnestock Winter Park that includes 15 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and an area for sledding.
The large beach at Canopus Lake is the jewel of Clarence Fahnestock Memorial Park. Its sandy shore and nearby picnic area are enjoyed by thousands of bathers. In addition to swimming, campers and day trippers can fish in or tour Canopus Lake by row boats which are available for rental by the hour or the day. Fishing by boat is permitted at Stillwater and Canopus Lakes. Fishing at both lakes and four ponds is excellent in all seasons for anglers seeking bass, pickerel, perch or brook and rainbow trout.
The scenic campground, formed along the park’s natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. The campground’s nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.
The Beatrix Farrand Garden Association is located at 4097 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538. "Beatrix Farrand was a landscape gardener whose work defined the American taste in gardens throughout the first half of the 20th century. For generations, gardens consisted of tender and annual plants set out each year in elaborately shaped beds cut into lawn. Farrand joined the likes of England's Gertrude Jekyll and William Robinson in championing the use of perennial plants in combinations based upon color harmony, bloom sequence and texture. This was the birth of the mixed border that is standard in gardens today.
"Beatrix Farrand's work represents the very epitome of her craft. As such, she was sought after by the most powerful individuals and institutions of her day. While most of her gardens have been lost to time, notable exceptions include the Rockefeller's Eyrie Garden in Maine, large portions of the Princeton and Yale campuses, and Dumbarton Oaks, in Washington, D.C., indisputably one of the great gardens of the world.
"This rarified context should give present-day visitors to the Beatrix Farrand Garden at Bellefield a better sense of the treasure that lies within its fieldstone walls. Bellefield, an elegant 18th century house remodeled by famed architects McKim, Mead and White for Thomas and Sarah Newbold, now serves as the headquarters for the National Park Service.
"The restoration has resulted in a stunning display of perfectly composed borders - pink; white; blush, cream and grey; and mauve and purple - set off by vine-traced walls and clipped hemlock hedges. Thanks to a recent grant from the Jane W. Nuhn Charitable Trust, a third and final garden gate has been created using Farrand's own working drawings. This magnificent oak door, replete with elaborate Arts & Crafts style hardware, was handmade by local artisans, and is now installed at Bellefield."
The Beatrix Farrand Garden at Bellefield is open to the public free of charge.
Hours are 7 days a week, 7am to sunset. Closed Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Years Day.
Press blue button for the complete text on this page and for News, History, Events, Gallery, and more about the Beatrix Farrand Garden Association.
"During the growing season, we can be found working in the garden every Tuesday morning. Please stop by for a visit."
Shaupeneak Ridge Louisa Pond, Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State
Deer, foxes, coyotes and wild turkeys roam this rugged and beautiful property in the Marlboro Mountains
In addition to great hiking and mountain biking, educators can use this 570-acre park as an outdoor classroom; this mountain forest featuring a pond, waterfall, hiking trails and views of the Hudson River and Catskills is a great place for children to learn about ecology and environmental ethics.
Perfect for nature study, hiking and mountain biking. Six miles of trails. Great views of eastern Hudson River shore and Catskill Mountains.
Things To Do Birding Fishing (Contact local guides for information.) Hiking Trails Mountain Biking Nature Study Picnicking Scenic Views
Directions Crossing Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 8.2 miles. Left on Old Post Road. Lower parking lot is 0.2 miles on right. For upper lot, follow Old Post Road to Poppletown Road, which splits off to the right. Parking area is on the left, 2.5 miles from intersection of 9W and Old Post Road.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and more about Shaupeneak Ridge in Ulster County, New York.
After a day of hiking, nature study or mountain biking in this scenic wonderland, pack a picnic from the produce at one of the local farms in the Hudson Valley. Or dine at one of the many excellent restaurants in Ulster, New York.
Innisfree Garden is located at 362 Tyrell Road, Millbrook NY 12545, Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley. Innisfree is a 150-acre public garden in which the ancient art of Chinese landscape design has been reinterpreted to create, without recourse to imitation, a unique American garden.
At Innisfree the visitor strolls from one three-dimensional picture to another. Streams, waterfalls, terraces, retaining walls, rocks, and plants are used not only to define areas but also to establish tension or motion. The 40-acre lake is glacial, most of the plant material is native, and the rocks have come from the immediate forest.
Press blue button for brochures, photos, and more about Innisfree Garden.
Poets' Walk Red Hook, Dutchess County Hudson River Valley, New York State
The rolling fields and quiet woodlands have inspired generations of writers and artists.
This 120-acre park is nestled in the region's famous National Historic Landmark District and offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River, Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge and Catskill Mountains. A visit to this property by Washington Irving is said to have inspired his classic story "Rip Van Winkle".
The park itself is buffered on all sides by 780-acres of private lands under Scenic Hudson conservation easements that insure the landscape's protection from development.
Attractions at Poets' Walk include two miles of trails through woods and open fields, magnificent setting for landscape artists, and rustic cedar pavilions.
Things To Do Birding Hiking / Walking Trails Nature Study Picnicking Scenic Views
Directions Crossing Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge from west to east, turn left at first traffic light onto River Road. Entrance is 0.6 miles on left.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and more about Poets' Walk in Dutchess, New York.
Burger Hill Park Rhinebeck, Dutchess County Hudson River Valley, New York State
This beautiful hill top park offers picnicking, hiking, and all-season activities including winter activities such as sledding and cross-country skiing. Burger Hill rises to a 550-foot hilltop that boasts panoramic vistas of the Hudson River Valley including the Shawangunk Ridge, Catskill and Taconic mountains, Stissing Mountain and the Berkshires.
Burger Hill's seventy-six-acres of open meadows and rural, scenic beauty are perfect for bird-watching. The park is protected by a Scenic Hudson conservation easement and is owned by Winnakee Land Trust.
Things To Do Birding Hiking / Walking Picnicking
Winter Activities Cross-County Skiing Sledding
Directions From intersection of Route 9 and Route 9G, take Route 9G south for 2.5 miles. Parking area on right
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, photos and more information about Burger Hill Park.
When its time to eat, after a wonderful day of birding, hiking, or relaxing in the this beautiful park, pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in the area. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in Rhinebeck.
Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park is located at Staatsburg NY 12580, Dutchess County in the Hudson River Valley. A serene wooded area with glimpses of the river provides an ideal location. The park's marina as well as its camping sites are extremely popular, as are the numerous hiking trails.
Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park adjoins Ogden Mills and Ruth Livingston Mills Memorial State Park and together, comprise more than 1,000-acres. Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park offers a full menu of exhilarating recreational opportunities and activities for visitors of all ages.
A serene wooded area with glimpses of the river provides an ideal location for camping. A marina consisting of slip space and a boat launch ramp is a popular area within the park. Press blue button for directions, and more about the activities and attractions available at Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park.
Things To Do Biking Boat Launches Cabins Campsites Dockage Fishing Golf Grills Hiking Marina (Marina Pump Out Stations) Nature Trails Pavilions Picnic Tables Powerboats Scenic Views Showers (Handicap Accessible) Tent/Trailer Sites
The New Canaan Nature Center is located at 144 Oenoke Ridge, New Canaan, CT 06840. The New Canaan Nature Center features diverse habitats, including wet and dry meadows and woodlands, two ponds, dense thickets, an old orchard and a cattail marsh. Two miles of trails criss-cross the site that is one of the six largest tracks of open space in New Canaan. Our trails and grounds are open from dawn to dusk and admission is free. In addition to our natural trails, visitors are welcome to enjoy an arboretum and a variety of gardens.
The Animal Care Building houses our live animal teaching collection and a live Birds of Prey exhibit. The Bliss Education Building and Educational Annex house our Beginner's Nature Program as well as classrooms used for Summer Camp, Birthday Parties, Scout programs and many other community, youth and family programs. Also open to the public are a teaching tropical greenhouse, maple syrup shed, Naturalist's Garden, Butterfly Garden, Wildflower Garden and Herb Garden. Press blue button for more about the New Canaan Nature Center.
Things To Do Arboretum and Gardens Birds of Prey Exhibit Greenhouse Hiking Trails Interactive Discovery Room Nature Gift Shop Visitors Center Calendar of Events
The Stamford Museum & Nature Center is located at 39 Scofield Town Road at High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT in Fairfield County. Stamford Museum & Nature Center has miles of beautiful walking trails. These trails cover much of the 118-acre property, offering short hikes along Poorhouse Creek to more challenging excursions along the High Ridge Trail. A walk through any trail may afford glimpses of wood duck pairs, painted turtles sunning on rocks, or even a pileated woodpecker. Spectacular glacial erratic boulders are strewn throughout the trail system. An enthusiastic hiker will find a number of different walks to suit a particular mood or season, like finding a secluded bridge on a bird-watching morning, or discovering a cave where coyotes have slept. The trails wind through a mature forest of American beech, oaks, black birch, and other native plant species.
Playground Did you ever wonder what the world is like from an animal's point of view? Scamper through the giant hollow log into Nature's Playground and find out. This exciting new playground in the woods at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center is nestled into a rocky hillside and is part of the Overbrook Natural Science Complex. Kids (or adults) can scale a spider's web to a tree house with a lookout, then wind their way down a tubular slide or zoom down the otter slide.
They can jump on a bouncing bug, try to walk across a moving bridge or climb into a hawk's nest to survey their territory. Wiggle like a worm across two huge maple leaves, and crawl through an ant's nest. Dig for fossils in the huge sand pit. They also can become the captain and crew of the boat that's anchored here.
Nature Trails Our trails connect with the 88 acre-Bartlett Arboretum on the north end of the Museum's property.
New England Working Farm Explore our traditional working farm and discover the sounds, smells, and textures that evoke memories and reveal the nature of farmlife. Observe staff conduct the daily chores that maintain this active, productive farm. Heckscher Farm is a living resource for learning. Children and families make personal connections to a not-so-distant past when farming was a major way of life in the region. Through observation, exploration, and participation, visitors can immerse themselves in the experiences of farming.
Education We are an Educational Institution. The Museum's 10-acre farm provides educational and recreational activities. At the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, we offer year-round classes in art and nature for toddlers through adults. Press blue button for more information about the Stamford Museum and Nature Center.
Things To Do Hiking / Walking Playground Nature Trails Working Farm
RamsHorn-Livingston Sanctuary Catskill, Greene County Hudson River Valley, New York State
At 480-acres, RamsHorn-Livingston Sanctuary is the Hudson River's largest tidal swamp forest.
The RamsHorn-Livingston Sanctuary is an important feeding area for heron, waterfowl and migratory birds. It is also a breeding ground and nursery for American shad and bass. This property is co-owned by The Scenic Hudson Land Trust and the National Audubon Society.
Attractions in this wonderful 480-acre forest includes more than three and a half miles of trails, Twenty-eight-foot wildlife observation tower, kayak and canoe launch to the river (following half-mile walk from parking area). Note that canoe/kayak access to the Sanctuary is by way of the RamsHorn Creek that connects to the Hudson River (nearest put-in is Catskill Point).
Things To Do Birding Canoeing / Kayaking Hiking / Walking Trails Nature Study Observation Tower Picnicking Scenic Views
Directions Crossing the Rip Van Winkle Bridge from east to west, turn left at first traffic light onto Route 385. Continue 2.5 miles through the Village of Catskill. Left on West Main Street after crossing the Catskill Creek. Continue 0.8 miles to small rotary; exit rotary on Dubois Road. Proceed 0.1 miles to RamsHorn parking area on right.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and more about RamsHorn-Livingston Sanctuary in Greene County, New York.
Four Mile Point Town of Coxsackie, Greene County Hudson River Valley, New York State
Scenic Hudson saved this riverfront parcel from development
This 7.6-acre riverfront preserve now offers a picturesque shoreline, tranquil inland pond and 60-foot knoll that provides dramatic vistas. The preserve once housed an icehouse during the height of the historic ice industry along the Hudson River. The property was purchased and turned into a public park in 1992 by The Scenic Hudson Land Trust, the Town of Coxsackie and the Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Things To Do Birding Canoeing Kayaking Nature Trails Picnic Spot Wetland & wildlife viewing platform
Directions Crossing Rip Van Winkle Bridge from east to west, turn right at first traffic light onto Route 385 north. Continue 7.6 miles. Right on Four-Mile Point Road.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, parking information, maps, photos and more about Four Mile Point.
After a day of canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or relaxing at this lovely spot in Coxsackie, select from one of many good restaurants in Greene County.
Central Park is located in the very heart of New York City (Manhattan). Central Park's east side opens onto "Museum Mile" which includes the world famous "Metropolitan Museum of Art". Central Park's west side opens near New York City's Lincoln Center, home to The Metropolitan Opera House, New York Philharmonic, NYC Ballet, New York State Opera and more. The entrance on Central Park South is across from New York City's landmark Plaza Hotel. Walk a few blocks east and you will find yourself in one of the most renowned shopping areas in the world - the famed New York City's Fifth Avenue.
Central Park is located on 843-acres of beautifully landscaped park space sprinkled with wonderful statuary, classic architecture, the great lawn and more. With 25 million visitors each year, Central Park is the most frequently visited urban park in the United States. The park's many features include: the Central Park Zoo and Wildlife Center, 21 Playgrounds, Walking Tours, Music in the Park, Recreation Programs. Sports such as Bicycle Riding, Birding, Chess, cross-country Skiing, Fishing, Horseback Riding, Ice Skating, Row Boating, Swimming, Tennis, Wall Climbing are all availble. You can even take advantage of the many Nature Walks and Educational Programs.
Restaurants in Central Park Many casual eating-spots and fine dining restaurants are available in Central Park. Escape the bustle of NYC for a while and dine in an oasis of trees and flowers, or dine overlooking the lake. Press blue button for a list of restaurants in Central Park.
Just for Kids at Central Park Central Park is a wonderland for children with 21 Playgrounds, Boating, Climbing Walls, Ice Skating, Inline Skating, and don't forget that picnic while the kids play in the park. Select "Kids to Do" activities, or "Belvedere Castle" and the "Dana Discovery Center" for environmental programs. Click on "Recreation Programs" to discover the fun and exercise available including exciting Adventure programs. Press blue button for more information on "Just for Kids".
The Carousel at Central Park Central Park's first carousel was built in 1870. After a long search the Parks Department discovered the present vintage Carousel. The Carousel is one of the largest in the United States, with 58 hand-carved, painted horses. Stein and Goldstein were among the foremost carvers of their day and the horses – nearly life-size in the outer ring – are caught rearing or mid-stride with almost fierce reality.
The Carousel today still holds its magic charm, with almost 250,000 riders a year. Both adults and children enjoy the scale of the horses and the brisk speed of the ride. During warm weather the admissions line snakes around hot dog and popcorn vendors, recalling the atmosphere of a country fair.
North Meadow Recreation Center at Central Park. The North Meadow Recreation Center, south of the Meadow, was originally built as stables. It was converted to a recreation facility in the early 1990s. At 23 acres, the North Meadow is the Park's largest open space, punctuated only by the clay fans of ballfields.
Things To Do Baseball and Softball (26 ballfields) Bicycle Riding Birding Boating Chess Children's Carousel Family Fishing Horseback Riding Inline Skating Nature Walks Playgrounds (21 playgrounds) Swimming Tennis Wall Climbing Zoo
The Cloisters is located in northern Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park. The Cloisters, which celebrated its sixtieth anniversary in 1998, is named for the portions of five medieval French cloisters: Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Bonnefont-en-Comminges, Trie-en-Bigorre, and Froville; that were incorporated into the modern museum building. The result is not a copy of any particular medieval structure but an ensemble of spaces, rooms, and gardens that provide a harmonious and evocative setting in which visitors can experience the rich tradition of medieval artistic production. Just as cloisters provided sheltered access from one building to another within a monastery, here they act as passageways from gallery to gallery. They provide as inviting a place for rest, contemplation, and conversation as they did for their original monastic population.
The collection at The Cloisters is complemented by more than six thousand objects exhibited in several galleries on the first floor of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's main building on Fifth Avenue. Renowned for its architectural sculpture, The Cloisters also rewards visitors with exquisite illuminated manuscripts, stained glass, metalwork, enamels, ivories, and tapestries.
Much of the sculpture at The Cloisters was acquired by George Grey Barnard (1863–1938), a prominent American sculptor and avid collector of medieval art. While working in rural France before World War I, Barnard supplemented his income by locating and selling medieval sculpture and architectural fragments that had made their way into the hands of local landowners over several centuries of political and religious upheaval. He kept many pieces for himself and, upon returning to the United States, opened to the public a churchlike brick structure on Fort Washington Avenue filled with his collection - the first installation of medieval art of its kind in America.
Through the generosity of the philanthropist and collector John D. Rockefeller, Jr. (1874–1960), the museum and all of its contents were acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1925. By 1927, it was clear that a new and larger building would be needed to display the collection in a more scholarly fashion. In addition to financing the conversion of 66.5 acres of land just north of Barnard's museum into a public park, inside which the new museum building would be located, and donating seven hundred acres of additional land to the state of New Jersey across the Hudson River to ensure that the view from The Cloisters remain unsullied, Rockefeller contributed medieval works of art from his own collection (including the celebrated set of seven South Netherlandish tapestries depicting "The Hunt of the Unicorn") and established an endowment for operations and future acquisitions.
Press blue button to see highlights from the collection housed at The Cloisters and presented online.
The New York Botanical Garden is a National Historic Landmark. The 250-acre grounds of The New York Botanical Garden have some of the most beautiful natural terrain of any botanical garden in the world, including dramatic rock outcroppings, a river and waterfall, rolling hills, ponds, and a 50-acre remnant of the forest that once covered New York City. Among its 50 gardens and plant collections are an outstanding rose garden, perennial garden, and rock garden, as well as superb collections of daylilies, orchids, conifers, and flowering trees.
The Garden is home to the nation's largest Victorian glasshouse, the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, which opened to the public in 1902 and was named a New York City Landmark in 1973. It is home to A World of Plants, a permanent exhibition that includes tropical rain forests, deserts, and the world's most comprehensive collection of palm trees under glass. The Conservatory also houses the Garden's seasonal flowers shows, including the popular Orchid Show and Holiday Train Show.
Founded in 1891, the Garden is one of the world’s great collections of plants, the region’s leading educational center for gardening and horticulture, and an international center for plant research. The Garden is alive with opportunities for discovery, from an "ecotour" of the world in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory to an innovative indoor/outdoor science museum for kids, to 50 exquisite gardens and plant collections.
Things To Do Educational Center Gardens Science Museum for Kids Train Show (Holiday) Victorian Glasshouse Conservatory (NYC Landmark)
Esty & Hellie Stowell Trailhead Storm King Mountain Cornwall-On-Hudson, Orange County Hudson River Valley, New York State
The Esty & Hellie Stowell Trailhead provides access to Storm King Mountain, where Scenic Hudson got its start in the fight to Save the Land that Matters Most.
Esty & Hellie Stowell Trailhead offers 11.2 miles of trails on 1,900-acres and provides access to Storm King State Park with hiking and great views of the Hudson River and Hudson Highlands.
Stowell Trailhead offers hikers a new way to access the spectacular summit of Storm King Mountain. Hikers heading uphill from the Esty and Hellie Stowell Trailhead soon enter Storm King State Park, with miles of trails affording magnificent Hudson Highlands vistas that Scenic Hudson has been protecting since 1963. Storm King Mountain was the stage for the epic fight to stop the development of a massive pump storage hydroelectric facility that gave birth to Scenic Hudson's campaign to Save the Land That Matters Most.
Things To Do Hiking Trails with Hudson Highlands views Scenic Vistas
Directions From Newburgh-Beacon Bridge: 4.5 miles south on Rt. 9W, right on Rt. 218. Trailhead is 1.6 miles on right.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, photos and more about Esty & Hellie Stowell Trailhead
Founded in 1959, the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum is a center for nature, with a focus on environmental education and a mission to develop responsible caretakers of the natural world. Over the years it has developed quality educational programs for students and the public that focus on the unique ecology of the Hudson Highlands and promote knowledge and appreciation of our natural world.
Outdoor Discovery Center The Outdoor Discover Center is located at 100 Muser Drive (entrance to the center is on Muser Drive across from 174 Angola Road) in Cornwall, NY.
Wildlife Education Center See the Living Hudson Exhibit; a multi-sensory experience full of the flora and fauna native to the Hudson Estuary. Follow the journey as water trickles down a highland creek into a wetland pond. The pond empties into a freshwater stream which then joins the Hudson River Estuary.
Press blue button to learn more about upcoming events, featured programs, and to Meet the Animal of the week.
Kenridge Farm Cornwall, Orange County Hudson River Valley, New York State
Scenic Hudson purchased this historic 178-acre farm in 1993 so that the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum could establish an "Outdoor Discovery Center".
Nature trails on the grounds of this former farm (now home to the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum) are helping to inspire the next generation of environmentalists. Three miles of trails are owned and managed by the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum.
Things To Do Hiking / Walking Trails Nature Study Scenic Views
Directions Kenridge Farm is on Muser Drive, across from 174 Angola Road. Take Route 9W to the Angola Road Exit. Go .1 mile west on Angola Road.
After a day of hiking, nature study, or a casual walk at Kenridge Farm, dine at one of many excellent restaurants in Orange County, New York.
Storm King Art Center is located at Old Pleasant Hill Road, Mountainville NY 10953, Orange County in the Hudson Valley. Storm King is widely recognized as one of the world’s greatest sculpture parks. "Storm King Art Center is a museum celebrates the relationship between sculpture and nature. Five hundred acres of landscaped lawns, fields and woodlands provide the site for postwar sculptures by internationally renowned artists. At Storm King, the exhibition space is defined by sky and land. Unencumbered by walls, the subtly created flow of space is punctuated by modern sculpture. The grounds are surrounded by the undulating profiles of the Hudson Highlands, a dramatic panorama integral to the viewing experience. The sculptures are affected by changes in light and weather, so no two visits are the same.
History of Storm King Art Center "Ralph E. Ogden and H. Peter Stern, then joint owners of Star Expansion Company founded Storm King Art Center in 1960. Originally Ogden envisioned a museum of the Hudson Valley painters, however after visiting a marble quarry in Austria in 1961 he became partially interested in sculpture. Early purchases were set outside the building as part of a formal garden scheme. Six years later, Ogden saw sculptures by David Smith (1906-1965) set in open fields outside his home in Bolton Landing. The Art Center purchased thirteen works from the artist’s estate and inspired in part by Smith’s sculpture fields soon began to place works outdoors in a new way that directly responded to the landscape of Mountainville. Since that time, each sculpture has been sited as part of a visual fabric that includes its immediate surroundings and the distant landscape scene – expanding the context for viewing far beyond traditional garden confines. In 1972 the Art Center began acquiring a permanent collection of large-scale sculptures. Works are acquired selectively, always with attention to the potential interaction of sculpture with the Storm King landscape. Ogden died in 1974; H. Peter Stern continues to serve as both Chairman and President of the Art Center.
Museum Building: "Completed as a residence in 1935 for the late Vermont Hatch, the French Normandy-style building was designed by architect Maxwell Kimball. The building's granite stones were salvaged from Danskammer, the 1834 Edward Armstrong mansion located north of Newburgh that stood overlooking the Hudson River for almost 100 years. The five Ionic columns now situated on the Art Center's property formed the front of Danskammer. The interior of the museum building contains many period details such as walnut paneling, and walnut and oak parquet floors. Inside are nine exhibition galleries, a museum shop, and offices.
Landscape "At Storm King, visitors are encouraged to enjoy nature as well as art, to meander on trails and discover sculptures, or to traverse the fields to walk among monumental works. The grounds are under a carefully supervised program of maintenance and change. Recently the Art Center has developed the North Trail and a wooded grove with sculptures, and has restored several walking paths."
Visitors may walk through the grounds or take a self-guided tour aboard a handicap-accessible tram that travels through the main portion of the grounds. An audio-guide is available for rental at the museum shop. Press blue button to learn about the collections, current exhibitions, membership, photos, and more about Storm King Art Center.
The word is Fabulous collection of modern and majestic sculptures in an exceptional outdoor setting that complement each and every piece of art. Storm King is magical in all seasons, especially in the Fall. Bring the children, a picnic, and dine under a tree; four miles of hiking trails are also available.
Snake Hill New Windsor, Orange County Hudson River Valley, New York State
Bushwhackers who explore this 500-foot hilltop outside of Newburgh are rewarded with spectacular views of the Hudson River and Hudson Highlands.
Snake Hill is 94.5-acres with no trails. The colorfully named Snake Hill is the dominant feature of the landscape surrounding Newburgh. Although there are no maintained trails on the property, adventuresome hikers can find their way to the summit and some rewarding views.
Things To Do Birding Hiking Nature Study Picnicking
Directions From Newburgh-Beacon Bridge: 3.2 miles south on Route 9W, then right on Union Ave. Proceed 1.8 miles to 398 Union Ave. and proceed to end of driveway.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and more about Snake Hill in New York.
Downing Park is a 35-acre landscape park located in the heart of the City of Newburgh, Orange County, in the Hudson Valley. Filled with hills and valleys, streams, a pond, and a rich variety of vegetation, the park has serpentine paths and picturesque vista.
Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, designers and creators of Central Park in New York City, created this 35-acre urban respite named for their mentor and supporter of the public parks movement. The landscaping features many a winding path opening to a picture perfect vignette of flowering shrubs, rolling hills, a pergola and pond. Polly Pond, especially when filled with ice skaters, has been inspiration for many artists. The park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, and the Shelter House also serves as Visitor Center for the town.
Bear Mountain State Park is located on the west side of the Hudson River in Orange County and Rockland County, New York. The 5,067-acre (20.51 km2) Bear Mountain State Park, flagship of the Palisades Interstate Park System, is renowned for its natural beauty and rugged mountains and is just 45 miles north of New York City, in the historic and beautiful Hudson River Valley.
Lakes, ponds, forest, hills, and mountains abound at Bear Mountain. Bear Mountain is heavily forested, offering the natural beauty of sights such as Perkins Memorial Point,
Of interest to hikers, the historic Appalachian Trail is carried across the Bear Mountain Bridge and the Popolopen Suspension Bridge. Although campgrounds and lodging are available, Bear Mountain Park is primarily a day-use park offering magnificent scenery, photo opportunities, and great hiking for all levels of hikers. The historic Bear Mountain Inn, situated in Bear Mountain Park, overlooks Hessian Lake and provides food and overnight accommodations. Food is also available at several vendors around Hessian Lake and in other areas of the park.
Bear Mountain Park attractions and activities include: a large playing field, picnic groves, rowboat docks on Hessian Lake, swimming pool and bathhouse, nature trails including key segments of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Long Path, basketball court, Trailside Museums and Zoo, Iona Island Estuarine Reserve and Bird Refuge, Perkins Tower, and the Merry-Go-Round. Many winter activities are available at Bear Mountain Park, including an outdoor rink that is open for ice-skating from late October through mid-March.
Perkins Memorial Tower sits 1,305 feet above the Hudson River, atop Bear Mountain. Perkins Point and Perkins Memorial Tower afford spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park. Driving, biking, or hiking along Perkins Memorial Drive offers breathtaking views from many vantage points leading to Perkins Memorial Tower perched at the top of the mountain. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of many picnic spots that are available along Perkins Memorial Drive.
Click to enlarge photo of sign - Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery.
Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery Walk the Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery where you will "stand on the site of Fort Clinton, which was built along with Fort Montgomery to prevent British ships from sailing up the Hudson River during the Revolutionary War. On October 6, 1777, the British captured both forts and destroyed them shortly thereafter.
"This trail leads down to the Popolopen Creek and across the Popolopen Suspension Footbridge to Fort Montgomery State Historic Site. Fort Montgomery is an archeological site and a historic ruin. Interpretive signs and an audio tour are available to help understand the history of the fort and the battle."
More fun and educational attractions for kids include the Trailside Museum and Zoo, and the Merry-Go-Round featuring 42 hand carved seats of native animals. After a ride on the merry-go-round, visit the zoo and see how many native animals you can recognize. (Perhaps your children can help name the animals.) .
Great kids Attraction - Merry-Go-Round The Merry-Go-Round at Bear Mountain features hand painted scenes of the park and 42 hand carved seats of native animals including: black bear, wild turkey, deer, raccoon, skunk, Canada goose, fox, swan, bobcat, rabbit and more.
Great kids Attraction - Trailside Museum and Zoo There are four museums at Trailside. The Reptile and Amphibian House is home to a variety of turtles, snakes, frogs, toads, salamanders and skinks as well as many species of fish. The Nature Study Museum houses specimens originally created by the Museum of Natural History to educate people about animal identification. Visitors can learn about geologic formations of the Hudson Highlands in the Geology Museum and local Native American and early settler culture in the History Museum.
Things To Do Biking Trails in Hudson Valley Boat Rentals Dockage Fishing (lake and river fishing) Food at park and at Bear Mountain Inn Hiking Trails / Walking Merry-Go-Round Pavilion Nature Trail Perkins Memorial Drive & Tower Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool (very large pool) Swimming Trailside Museums Zoo and Nature Park
New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site is located at Vails Gate, NY 12584 in Orange County in the Hudson River Valley. In October 1782, General George Washington moved his army to New Windsor, above West Point and just beyond the Hudson Highlands, to establish winter quarters. He was accompanied by 7,000 troops including 500 women and children or "camp followers." By late December 1782, they had erected nearly 600 log huts into a "cantonment," a military enclave. High-ranking officers were quartered in private homes.
Washington was pleased that the army was better housed, fed, and clothed than ever before in the long war, but life for the officers and troops at the Cantonment remained hard. It was at the New Windsor Cantonment that the cease fire orders were issued by Washington ending the eight-year War of Independence on April 19, 1783. The final success, however, was the gradual, orderly disbandment of the army at the Cantonment, and the peaceful march of its still largely unpaid officers and men back to their homes or new pursuits.
New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site is fun for children and family. See the staff in reproduction period dress and uniforms demonstrate musket drills, blacksmithing, military medicine and camplife activities. View the exhibits at the Visitor Center and the reconstructed Temple Building, which served as a chapel for the soldiers.
Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park is a wonderful park for outdoor enthusiasts. This 14,086-acre park, covering land in Putnam and Dutchess counties, boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, scenic campground, and abundant opportunities for boating, hunting, fishing, and birding. On the hot days of summer, go swimming at the park's beautiful beach.
The park is also home to the Taconic Outdoor Education Center which provides high quality environmental programming. In the winter, you can enjoy the Fahnestock Winter Park that includes 15 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and an area for sledding.
The large beach at Canopus Lake is the jewel of Clarence Fahnestock Memorial Park. Its sandy shore and nearby picnic area are enjoyed by thousands of bathers. In addition to swimming, campers and day trippers can fish in or tour Canopus Lake by row boats which are available for rental by the hour or the day. Fishing by boat is permitted at Stillwater and Canopus Lakes. Fishing at both lakes and four ponds is excellent in all seasons for anglers seeking bass, pickerel, perch or brook and rainbow trout.
The scenic campground, formed along the park’s natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. The campground’s nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.
Foundry Dock Park Village of Cold Spring, Putnam County Hudson River Valley, New York State
Foundry Dock Park officially opened in June 2006. This riverfront park is enjoyed by many who come to relax, enjoy the spectacular views of the Hudson or launch a kayak.
Before Scenic Hudson purchased this riverfront property for public access, it was sorely neglected but enjoyed as a favorite put-in for small boats. Scenic Hudson and volunteers cleared the property and the popularity of the site increased as the interest in kayaking on the river and into Constitution Marsh Audubon Sanctuary grew. Scenic Hudson is pleased to ensure that this magnificent property, with its history and easy access to the river, connects people with the power and spirit of the river.
If you live in Manhattan, take a scenic drive or take Metro North to Cold Spring; and visit Foundry Dock Park.
Things To Do Birding Boat Launch (available for small boats) Kayaking Scenic views
Directions From intersection of Route 9 and Route 301, take Route 301 west for 2.6 miles to intersection of Route 9D at traffic light. Proceed west on Route 301/Main Street for four blocks; turn left on Lunn Terrace to end; turn left on Market Street. Park entrance on right. Free weekend parking adjacent to the train station. By train, exit Cold Spring station.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, parking information, maps, photos and more about Foundry Dock Park.
After a day of kayaking, fishing, or relaxing at this beautiful spot in Cold Springs, select from one of many excellent restaurants in Cold Spring and nearby areas in Putnam County.
The word is Wonderful handicapped-accessible park overlooking the beautiful Hudson River and Hudson Highlands.
West Point Foundry Preserve Cold Spring, Putnam County Hudson River Valley, New York State
From 1818 to 1911, the West Point Foundry was a technological powerhouse, manufacturing Parrott guns, the rifled cannon credited with winning the Civil War, and the steam engines, water wheels and mill equipment that sparked America’s burgeoning industrial economy.
Today, this 87-acre preserve is a peaceful park that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The preparation of a Public Access and Interpretation Plan for the West Point Foundry Preserve is supported in part by a Preserve America grant administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. Putnam County is the recipient of the grant. The study and stabilization of masonry ruins at the preserve is funded by the Environmental Protection Fund managed by NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Plans for park improvements are in progress. In the meantime, the property is open to the public with nearly a mile of footpaths that wind near ruins and along both banks of a stream. The adjacent Foundry Cove, once a U.S. EPA Superfund cleanup site, now boasts tidal wetlands that provide habitat for Hudson River bird and fish species.
Things To Do Birding Footpaths winding near ruins Hiking Nature Study
Directions In Cold Spring, go west on Main Street, then left on Rock Street and right on Kemble Ave. Park entrance is at the end of Kemble Ave.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and more about West Point Foundry Preserve in Cold Spring, New York.
After a day of birding, hiking, and studying historical archaeological elements, dine at one of many excellent restaurants in Putnam County, New York.
Important Note Scenic Hudson's West Point Foundry Preserve is a sensitive archaeological site. Please stay on marked trails and do not move, remove or destroy any historical archaeological elements. Please keep dogs on a leash and pick up after them. Bikes are not permitted.
Boscobel is located at 1601 Route 9D, Garrison NY10524, Putnam County in one of the Hudson Valley River Towns. Boscobel is a neoclassical style mansion (built 1804-1808) located on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River. This is where the river cuts through the Appalachian chain of mountains, creating the Hudson Highlands. The mountains on both sides rise up more than 1000 feet from the water's edge at what is the narrowest, deepest and most treacherous stretch of the river.
From the front lawn at Boscobel, one can see the Constitution Marsh Sanctuary and Constitution Island immediately below, the Bear Mountain Bridge to the south, the United States Military Academy at West Point across the river, and Storm King Mountain to the north. Spectacular views of the Hudson River and the Hudson Highlands, including Crow’s Nest, Storm King, and Sugar Loaf Mountains are visible from Boscobel’s grounds. The Hudson has been an inspiration for artists through the centuries, and great works by Thomas Cole, Asher B. Durand, Thomas Doughty, Thomas P. Rossiter, and Frederic Church, have depicted the majesty of the River and its surroundings.
Boscobel was originally located in Montrose, New York, about fifteen miles south of the present site, with views overlooking the Hudson River at Haverstraw Bay. It was built by States Morris Dyckman (1755-1806), a descendant of one of the early Dutch families of New Amsterdam.
The Boscobel Mansion dates from the early nineteenth century and contains one of the nation's leading collections of furniture and decorative arts from the Federal period with high-style furniture by Duncan Phyfe and other recognized New York cabinetmakers of the day. Much of Dyckman's English china, silver, glass, and part of his library have also survived and are on exhibit.
Points of Interest There are many tourist attractions and things to do close to Boscobel. Visitors can explore the quaint nineteenth century village of Cold Spring with its antique and specialty shops, Historic West Point, Storm King Art Center, Theatre, and beautiful Parks including Bear Mountain State Park.
Did you know that the Hudson River was recently named one of ten "American Heritage Rivers."
Attractions Guided Tour of Boscobel mansion Self-Guided Tour of beautiful grounds Rose Garden, Orangery, Springhouse and Garden House Woodland Trail Panoramic Views of Hudson Highlands
Cherry Plain State Park is located at 26 State Park Road, Cherry Plain NY 12040, Rensselaer County in the Hudson Valley. Cherry Plain State Park has 175-acres and features a sandy beach on Black River Pond, with bathhouse and comfort station nearby. Picnic grounds and a boat launch are adjacent to the beach. The park also has bridle paths and hiking, biking and nature trails that serve for cross-country skiing in winter. Anglers fish for bass, bullheads and pickerel and may also ice fish in winter. The park also has 10 trailer sites and 10 lakeside tent sites available for overnight camping. Press blue button for hours of operation, directions, fees and rates, camping reservations, and more about Cherry Plain State Park.
Things to Do Beach (sandy beach) Biking Boat Launch Boat Rentals Camping Sites Fishing Food Hiking Horseback Riding Picnic Table and Pavilions Playground Recreational Programs Showers
Bear Mountain Park: Trailside Museum and Wildlife Center The study of native animals and their habitat at Bear Mountain has a long history. In 1921, the American Museum of Natural History installed a facility at the Boy Scouts headquarters on Lake Kanawauke. Four years later, the same Museum began a program for the study of insects in Harriman State Park. The Commission added a bear den in 1926, which became a small zoo, as the facility took in more injured animals in need of shelter.
Today's Trailside Museums and Zoo occupy 40-acres on a bluff 250 feet over the Hudson River. The trails, including the first section of the Appalachian Trail, are among the oldest in the country; they link the various homes of Samantha, the eagle, and other birds of prey, the bear den, as well as habitats for beavers, a river otter, foxes, coyotes, and more.
Children enjoy the various presentations of indigenous wildlife, geology and herpetology. On display are Native American artifacts, models of Revolutionary War battles fought on-site, and an exhibit of the origins of the Boy Scouts, and four Museum buildings. See the bald eagle, black bear, owl, river otter and more animals local to Bear Mountain.
The Trailside Museum and Wildlife Center also highlight the history of the area. Learn about the importance of Bear Mountain in the American Revolutionary War. Visit historic 1777 & 1779 Trails that retrace the routes taken by the British army during the American War of Independence. Visit Fort Montgomery, a Revolutionary War fort built to defend the Hudson Highlands and protect American control of the Hudson River and learn about the Battle of Fort Montgomery and Fort Clinton.
Young children, older children, and adults all enjoy visiting each of the Museum buildings that house different exhibits. Visit the Local Reptiles, Amphibians, and Fish Museum, the Geology Museum, History Museum and Nature Study Museum.
Bear Mountain State Park is located on the west side of the Hudson River in Orange County and Rockland County, New York. The 5,067-acre (20.51 km2) Bear Mountain State Park, flagship of the Palisades Interstate Park System, is renowned for its natural beauty and rugged mountains and is just 45 miles north of New York City, in the historic and beautiful Hudson River Valley.
Lakes, ponds, forest, hills, and mountains abound at Bear Mountain. Bear Mountain is heavily forested, offering the natural beauty of sights such as Perkins Memorial Point,
Of interest to hikers, the historic Appalachian Trail is carried across the Bear Mountain Bridge and the Popolopen Suspension Bridge. Although campgrounds and lodging are available, Bear Mountain Park is primarily a day-use park offering magnificent scenery, photo opportunities, and great hiking for all levels of hikers. The historic Bear Mountain Inn, situated in Bear Mountain Park, overlooks Hessian Lake and provides food and overnight accommodations. Food is also available at several vendors around Hessian Lake and in other areas of the park.
Bear Mountain Park attractions and activities include: a large playing field, picnic groves, rowboat docks on Hessian Lake, swimming pool and bathhouse, nature trails including key segments of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Long Path, basketball court, Trailside Museums and Zoo, Iona Island Estuarine Reserve and Bird Refuge, Perkins Tower, and the Merry-Go-Round. Many winter activities are available at Bear Mountain Park, including an outdoor rink that is open for ice-skating from late October through mid-March.
Perkins Memorial Tower sits 1,305 feet above the Hudson River, atop Bear Mountain. Perkins Point and Perkins Memorial Tower afford spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park. Driving, biking, or hiking along Perkins Memorial Drive offers breathtaking views from many vantage points leading to Perkins Memorial Tower perched at the top of the mountain. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of many picnic spots that are available along Perkins Memorial Drive.
Click to enlarge photo of sign - Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery.
Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery Walk the Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery where you will "stand on the site of Fort Clinton, which was built along with Fort Montgomery to prevent British ships from sailing up the Hudson River during the Revolutionary War. On October 6, 1777, the British captured both forts and destroyed them shortly thereafter.
"This trail leads down to the Popolopen Creek and across the Popolopen Suspension Footbridge to Fort Montgomery State Historic Site. Fort Montgomery is an archeological site and a historic ruin. Interpretive signs and an audio tour are available to help understand the history of the fort and the battle."
More fun and educational attractions for kids include the Trailside Museum and Zoo, and the Merry-Go-Round featuring 42 hand carved seats of native animals. After a ride on the merry-go-round, visit the zoo and see how many native animals you can recognize. (Perhaps your children can help name the animals.) .
Great kids Attraction - Merry-Go-Round The Merry-Go-Round at Bear Mountain features hand painted scenes of the park and 42 hand carved seats of native animals including: black bear, wild turkey, deer, raccoon, skunk, Canada goose, fox, swan, bobcat, rabbit and more.
Great kids Attraction - Trailside Museum and Zoo There are four museums at Trailside. The Reptile and Amphibian House is home to a variety of turtles, snakes, frogs, toads, salamanders and skinks as well as many species of fish. The Nature Study Museum houses specimens originally created by the Museum of Natural History to educate people about animal identification. Visitors can learn about geologic formations of the Hudson Highlands in the Geology Museum and local Native American and early settler culture in the History Museum.
Things To Do Biking Trails in Hudson Valley Boat Rentals Dockage Fishing (lake and river fishing) Food at park and at Bear Mountain Inn Hiking Trails / Walking Merry-Go-Round Pavilion Nature Trail Perkins Memorial Drive & Tower Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool (very large pool) Swimming Trailside Museums Zoo and Nature Park
Clausland Mountain Park Town of Orangetown, Upper Grandview Tackamack Park on Clausland Mountain Road Hudson River Valley, New York State
Clausland Mountain is a very heavily wooded mountain composed primarily of hardwoods; Red Oak, White Oak, Maple, Hickory, Beech, Dogwood, interspersed with numerous thick Hemlock stands and dense sections of Mountain Laurel. The land is in its natural state, with many fine scenic overlooks. While the area does not contain any permanent bodies of water, during periods of heavy rain many streams cascade down the mountain. The major trail is the Long Path and can be identified by a blue blaze. It runs in a north - south direction beginning at the former Nike site off Highland Avenue and exits at Tackamack Town Park.
Things To Do Birding Geological Studies Hiking / Walking Nature Study Scenic Vistas
Access Off Nike Lane, Upper Grandview
Directions From Route 59 take Route 303 south, left Spruce Street (CR 28), turns into Clausland Mountain Road. Make a right on Tweed Blvd. Right on Nike Lane. Bear left at the fork on Nike Lane. Park entrance is on the left.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, wildlife in the park, hours of operation, parking information, maps, photos and more about Clausland Mountain Park.
Esopus Meadows Preserve Town of Esopus, Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State
The Esopus Meadows Preserve is located in the Town of Esopus, along the Hudson River, south of Kingston, in northeastern Ulster County, New York State. This 93-acre preserve is owned and managed by Scenic Hudson.
Esopus Meadows Preserve offers two miles of woodland trails and a shoreline with stunning Hudson River views. The shallow waters just offshore of the park are among the Hudson’s most important spawning grounds for striped bass. This impressive 2-mile trail network runs along the Hudson River and through woodlands, alongside wetlands, and above the Klyne Esopus Kill.
Things To Do Birding at this prime spot for watching bald eagles Nature Study along 3,500 feet of shoreline Hiking Trails View of the 1871 Esopus Lighthouse in the Hudson River.
Directions Crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 10.3 miles. Right on River Road. Proceed 1.3 miles. Entrance on right.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and the Esopus Meadows Preserve.
When its time to eat, after a wonderful day of birding, hiking, nature study, or relaxing in the fresh sea breezes, pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in the area. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in New Paltz or greater Ulster County.
Franny Reese State Park Highland, Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State
Franny Reese is known as “the mother of the modern environmental movement”. This new park features 250-acres of impressive ridgeline just south of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Mid-Hudson Bridge.
A new scenic overlook, opened in 2009, features dramatic views of the Mid-Hudson Bridge and the new Walkway Over the Hudson. The land boasts a broad array of tree species and features carriage trails and stone walls that crisscross the acreage.
A trail leads to the property from the Town of Lloyd's Johnson-Iorio Park, located immediately north of the bridge's Ulster County side. The path takes visitors under the bridge and connects them to a carriage trail that accesses the site.
Things To Do Birding Hiking / Walking Trails Mountain Biking Picnicking Ruins of former estate buildings Scenic Views Woodland Trails (2.5 miles)
Directions Crossing Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north and take first right onto Haviland Road. Parking area for Johnson-Iorio Park is located at the end of Haviland Road. From parking area, descend stairs and cross under Mid-Hudson Bridge. Trailhead is on the right.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, parking information, trail maps, photos and more about Franny Reese State Park.
Sleightsburgh Park Kingston, Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State
Sleightsburgh Park is a spectacular spit of land reaching almost all the way to the Kingston Lighthouse
This 79-acre peninsula at the mouth of the Rondout Creek was purchased by The Scenic Hudson Land Trust and conveyed to the Town of Esopus. A conservation easement held by our land trust ensures the property will forever remain parkland.
Sleightsburgh Park offers deep water boat access onto Rondout Creek, the wooded peninsula is criss-crossed with trails that offer good bird watching and views of the Kingston Lighthouse.
Things To Do Birding Deep water boat access onto Rondout Creek Hiking Trails Nature Study Picnicking Views of Kingston Lighthouse
Directions From Route 9W in Esopus, head east on North Broadway, then right on First Ave., left on Everson Street. Park Entrance is on the right.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and more about Sleightsburgh Park in Ulster County, New York.
After a day of hiking, nature study or just relaxing in this scenic wonderland, pack a picnic from the produce at one of the local farms in the Hudson Valley. Or dine at one of the many excellent restaurants in Ulster New York.
Black Creek Preserve Esopus, Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State
This 130-acre park features a dramatic suspension bridge, spectacular Hudson River views and offers hiking trails that wind among vernal pools.
Scenic Hudson purchased the Black Creek Preserve in 1992 to protect it from development and provide a beautiful, natural area where people can experience the Hudson.
Things To Do Nature Study Hiking two + miles of nature trails leading to Hudson River Views of Mills-Norrie State Park and Esopus Island
Directions Crossing Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 7.6 miles. Right on Winding Brook Road. Immediate left for parking lot.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson and the Black Creek Preserve where you can view Black Creek Trail Map or download the Black Creek Park Quest for information and maps that will guide you on a quest to learn about the history and wildlife at Black Creek Preserve.
After an invigorating day of birding, hiking, nature study, or just relaxing; pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in Ulster. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in Ulster County.
Gardens, Nature Centers & Trails
Comprehensive List and Directory of Gardens, Nature Centers and Nature Trails in Westchester County and the Hudson Valley.
Benefits of Gardening
Gardening is a great way to connect with the earth, reduce stress, increase creativity and promote relaxation.
Gardening is Therapeutic
There is even an emerging medical art known as horticultural therapy. People with all types of health conditions, schoolchildren, even prison inmates, are encouraged to learn about new plants and envision creative ways to arrange them in the ground as a way to provide a sense of accomplishment and improve self-image.
Gardening Feels Good
Aside from delighting your senses with color, texture and scents, gardening enables you to connect with nature. Digging your hands through the soil and handling delicate plants can feed the soul.
Gardening is Exercise
Gardening is a low-impact activity that improves flexibility through bending and stretching, and has been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. However, don't let it replace your walking regime or other regular aerobic exercise. Do both, for maximum benefits.
Wildlife Challenge
The Humane Society of the United States has initiated a Backyard Wildlife Awareness Campaign that will encourage people to make a few simple commitments that can greatly benefit the earth and the earth’s wildlife. The Humane Society gave us several resolutions to consider incorporating into our daily lives - like not cutting down dead trees in spring, because small animals and birds have begun nesting in them. All are easy, common sense ways to be a little gentler with nature.
Whether you are a gardener yourself, or hire professional landscapers and gardeners - you can help ensure the well being of our environment for ourselves and future generations. We all need to make an effort to keep pesticides and harmful toxins out of our gardens and away from our property. Not using harmful pesticides will protect our family and pets, as well as protect the natural wildlife and flaura. If you hire gardeners and landscapers - be sure the Gardener or Landscaper uses "environment" friendly and safe methods while working on your property.
Let your Lawn grow into a Meadow Letting your lawn grow into a meadow not only cuts down on pollution and the use of fossil fuels, but it also greatly increases habitat for birds and butterflies and other interesting critters. Even if you only designate a portion of your property to a meadow - this could be one of the most important commitments you will ever make to planet earth.
Do not compete for the most manicured lawn. Enjoy a beautiful and natural meadow.
"Perfect" lawns are typically sprayed with dangerous pesticides and harm the environment. Pesticides will seep into nearby streams, lakes, ponds, rivers, etc. Your well water will be contaminated which affects the water we drink and our family's health. You and your family and your pets are harmed by any dangerous pesticides used on your lawns.
Streams and Ponds Every stream is connected to something else - another stream, a pond, a lake. Trash finds its way from one to the other, and an array of wildlife along the way can be injured or sickened by it. Visit your local stream or pond and pick up trash that you find. The results will be felt far downstream.
Leave them wild Make a commitment never to buy a “novelty” wild animal as a pet. It is very difficult to satisfy their needs in captivity, and that often means an unhappy outcome for all concerned. As cute as a baby turtle may be, it is far better off in the wild. Take your kids for a walk to the local pond where they can see these and other wildlife where they should be – in the wild.
Go native Use plants that are native to your area. Not only will they thrive better, resist disease and often injury or attack from plant eating insects and mammals, but they will also require less maintenance, freeing you up to do nothing but enjoy them.
Save trees In the Spring, try not to cut down hollow trees because squirrels, raccoons, woodpeckers, flying squirrels, and others are nesting in them. “Dead” trees are anything but; they are thriving habitats for insects and animals who can benefit people and other wildlife. Keep them standing if possible.
Scrap the trap If you capture and relocate a “nuisance” wild animal in the Spring, it is likely to be a mom, which means helpless young will be left behind to starve. Instead use eviction strategies to solve wildlife conflicts.
Cut them up Disarm (cut) plastic 6 pack holders before disposal so that wild animals cannot get tangled up, injured or die in them.
Rinse out food jars Thoroughly rinse and safely discard food jars. Hungry raccoons and skunks can get their heads stuck in peanut butter, jelly, yogurt or other containers. If you clean the containers before disposing of them, you will literally be saving lives.
Check for nests Walk your yard and look carefully for rabbit nests before mowing in the spring. The nests can be hard to see, the mother rabbit digs a shallow hole in the grass and puts her babies in it where they stay for 3 weeks until weaned and self-sufficient.
Gardening and Flowering Garden Ideas
Some ideas for gardens - using different plants, flowers, and combinations of plants and flowers.
Gardens with long lasting color Try red and yellow blooms of flowers that thrive in this area.
Mix these flowers with blue salvia, with a low border of sweet white alyssum. Your color scheme has the primary colors of red, blue, and yellow.
Plant Combinations
What makes this plant combination work, is that both the celosia and the salvia have long tall flowers. They compliment each other and then are offset by the low border of alyssum. Try grouping similar flower types and get a little bold mixing the colors up.
Summer Gardens
Another good summer mix is a combination of summer madness petunias, with dusty miller, and a heavy border of white sweet alyssum. What makes this color combination great, is that it is using a different base color of gray. The summer madness petunia has a touch of gray in it that works really well with the gray in the dusty miller. It is eye catching because it is not your usual mix of summer annuals like marigolds. It has a sophisticated feel, but can be used anywhere, and the white border gives it a finished look. I tend to put the taller dusty miller towards the back, fill in with the petunias, and finish with the white alyssum. You can try this, or do something with a different base color. What makes this plant combination work is the drastically different textures. There is enough difference between the petunias and dusty miller to complement each other, without becoming too much.
Fall and Autumn Gardens
A good fall mixture is to use a combination of Iceland poppies with purple and pink stock, and either a border of lobelia, or alyssum, or one color of pansies. What makes this color combination work is that it is very soft, and pastel-like. When it is fall, and the days are getting shorter, all this bright color can look beautiful in your garden.
They are mostly warm colors, so they contrast with the cool temperatures at that time of year.
All these plants are very tall, and have long thin stems. Again, try things with similar growing habits, and then contrast it with something low. What also looks good with the poppies and stock can even be a border of low mounding grasses that come in gray and green.
Teddy Bear Sunflowers
One last idea for you to try, is an entire planting of Teddy Bear Sunflowers. The Teddy Bear variety are a dwarf, so they only get a foot or two tall. This is very eye-catching, and since these, and similar dwarf varieties, can be started from seed, they are very cost effective.
You can also plant your garden in containers. Try using a few large containers instead of lots and lots of little pots. Numerous pots tend to look cluttered and haphazard, while a few large containers placed here and there look well planned, and do more to show a variety of color.
Philipsburg Manor "National Historic Landmark"
