Spring is in the Air -- Get Outdoors, Reconnect with Nature

New downloadable environmental education guides ideal for outings with the kids

HUDSON VALLEY -- For those with cabin fever or perhaps with young people in their life who would enjoy outdoor activities -- Scenic Hudson announces a series of fun events in its parks.

Scenic Hudson outings are a great way to find out about local land-preservation issues while enjoying the great outdoors. To supplement the nature experience, we offer two engaging and educational guides for children that can be downloaded at www.scenichudson.org/natureguides. One guide highlights the history of the Hudson River Valley and tips for exploring various habitats, discovering signs of wildlife and helping protect the environment. A booklet on climate change in the Hudson Valley, ideal for students in grades 6-8, offers opportunities to examine potential ecosystem impacts from global warming.

Thursday, March 20, from 10 a.m.–noon
Long Dock Beacon Morning Ranger Hike, BEACON

Join a Scenic Hudson park ranger for a hike along a waterfront trail that leads to a dramatic sculpture, by renowned artist George Trakas, that features terraced decking, a boardwalk and a restored bulkhead that stabilizes the shoreline. The site also will be the future home of a "green" hotel/conference center and other public amenities.

Saturday, March 22, from 1-3 p.m.

Black Creek Preserve World of Wonders Hike, ESOPUS

A Scenic Hudson ranger will lead a hike to discover the fascinating life of vernal pools. This 13-acre property features forested trails and a picturesque Hudson River shoreline.

Thursday, April 3, from 10 a.m.–noon
Esopus Meadows Morning Ranger Hike, ESOPUS

A Scenic Hudson ranger will guide participants through a fact-filled two-mile hike. Great views of the Esopus Lighthouse and Staatsburgh State Historic Site (Mills Mansion).

Wednesday, April 16, from 7:30–9:30 a.m.
RamsHorn Livingston Sanctuary Birding Hike, CATSKILL

Audubon New York's Larry Federman, an environmental educator, will lead a basic birding experience at this 480-acre property, part of the Hudson River's largest tidal swamp.

Thursday, April 17, from 10 a.m.–noon
West Point Foundry Preserve Walk, COLD SPRING

A fact-filled walk on the site of what was a manufacturing marvel during America's Industrial Revolution.

Thursday, April 24, from 6–7:30 p.m.
Shaupeneak Ridge Weeknight Trail Run, ESOPUS

Enjoy a guided 3.5-mile trail run on rugged paths at this beautiful 570-acre property that also is popular for mountain biking.

Saturday, April 26, from 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Poets' Walk Dog Walk, RED HOOK

Bring your "best friend" for a stroll filled with spectacular views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains while gaining tips from a professional dog trainer.

RSVP at www.scenichudson.org/events. Sign up for a free membership to receive an e-mailed monthly calendar of Scenic Hudson outings. A handy Spring Outings calendar can be downloaded.

There are even more outings listed on Scenic Hudson's Web site, including a museum opening.

Saturday, March 29, from 6-8 p.m.
Opening for West Point Foundry Exhibit, COLD SPRING

Be our guest at this event, which also will feature many of our partners on this exciting project, at the Putnam County Historical Society and Foundry School Museum. Learn about the foundry, a 19th-century industrial powerhouse that helped win the Civil War, supplied the huge pipes for NYC's water system, and more.

Scenic Hudson works to protect and restore the Hudson River and its majestic landscape as an irreplaceable national treasure and a vital resource for residents and visitors. A crusader for the valley since 1963, we are credited with saving fabled Storm King Mountain from a destructive industrial project and launching the modern grass-roots environmental movement. Today with more than 10,000 ardent supporters, we are the largest environmental group focused on the Hudson River Valley. Our team of experts combines land acquisition, support for agriculture, citizen-based advocacy and sophisticated planning tools to create environmentally healthy communities, champion smart economic growth, open up riverfronts to the public and preserve the valley's inspiring beauty and natural resources. www.scenichudson.org

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