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This summer, our expert staff is leading guided tours through some of our most popular parks. We want to get you to the river this summer. Or to a mountaintop. Or to an unspoiled natural area rich in wildlife. When you visit a Scenic Hudson park, you'll feel the instinctive connection to the land and water that has inspired generations of Hudson Valley residents.
Whether you seek peaceful contemplation, heart-pumping exercise, lofty views, or a connection to high points in our nation's history, we've got a park for you. Join us for a guided tour through some of our most beautiful and popular parks. RSVP online at www.scenichudson.org/events or by phone at 845-473-4440, ext. 210. |
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WATERFALL
Creek and Marsh are Biological Powerhouses, Dutchess County
Madam Brett Park, 13 acres along the Fishkill Creek, Beacon
June 19, July 10, July 24, Aug. 7 -- 4-6pm
It takes little effort to reach the key attraction at this park, which borders a former hat factory. The rushing Tioronda Falls are a short stroll from the parking lot. Other high points of this tour include a hike along the Fishkill Creek to a tidal marsh inland from the Hudson. Learn about a marsh's natural wonders and how this one helps clean the creek's waters before they reach the Hudson. Birding opportunities are strong, especially at the marsh. History buffs will enjoy hearing about Catharyna Rombout Brett, Beacon's founder. |
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HERITAGE
Heart of America's Industrial Revolution, Putnam County
West Point Foundry Preserve, 87 acres along the Hudson, Cold Spring
June 17, June 18, July 15, July 16 -- 10am-3pm
West Point Foundry was a technological, economy-building powerhouse. From 1818 to 1884, the ironworks made steam engines, mill equipment, Parrott guns that helped win the Civil War, and massive pipes for NYC's water system. See foundry remains, wildlife, a waterfall in Foundry Brook and an ecologically important marsh that years earlier was polluted with toxins, and now is restored. In addition, we will be leading informal tours every Friday this summer between 3 and 5pm. |
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SUSTAINABILITY
Hotel and Public Park of the Future, Dutchess County
Long Dock Beacon, 25 acres along Hudson, Beacon
June 14, June 21 -- 4-6pm
Beacon is a riverfront community in renaissance. Its waterfront shows the power of making a clean, healthy environment a key part of economic development. Learn how Scenic Hudson is a catalyst for this success, which includes attracting the art museum Dia:Beacon and the state's Rivers & Estuaries Center. Explore our 25-acre "park in progress," a once pollution-blighted area we and developer Foss Group Beacon are transforming into a world-class park and "green" hotel. Great birding opportunities and unrivaled river views. |
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SPECTACULAR SUMMIT
Historic Mountaintop, Dutchess County
Mount Beacon/Fishkill Ridge, 1,887 acres, Beacon
June 26, July 17, July 31 -- 4-7pm
Mount Beacon's 1,500-foot summit was the site of the signal fi res that General Washington used to warn of British troop movements. Silent movies were fi lmed there during the 1920s. For most of the 19th century, it was the valley's most popular day trip thanks to one of the world's steepest incline railways and a hotel with restaurant and dance hall. Those up for the challenging one-mile ascent will learn more of this dynamic history and about endangered species that make the mountain their home. All that and astounding panoramic views. |
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NATURALIST'S PARADISE
Bird and Fish Haven with 3-Story Observation Deck, Greene County
RamsHorn-Livingston Sanctuary, 480 acres along the Hudson, Catskill
June 26, July 10, August 7 -- 6pm
Think that visiting a swamp isn't fun? Wait till you've toured this property, the river's largest tidal swamp forest. You'll see feeding areas for a variety of wading birds and waterfowl as well as breeding grounds for American shad and bass. Three miles of trails are waiting for you, as is a 28-foot deck designed for wildlife observation. |
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RIVER VIEWS
Powerfully Rising Bluffs, Ulster County
Franny Reese Preserve, 250 acres along the Hudson, Lloyd
June 24 -- 10am; July 12, August 9 -- 6pm
Those crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge have long appreciated the rising bluffs and impressive ridgeline immediately to the south along the river's western shore. Enjoy this rugged landscape, which features carriage trails and boasts commanding views. Also learn how the Hudson Valley would be far different today if not for nearly four decades of Franny Reese's vision and dedication. One of Scenic Hudson's founders, she was passionate about conserving our natural and historic treasures long before it was fashionable. An open field offers prime birding possibilities. |
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| Photo credits: M. Nelson, T. Ligamari, N. Maddocks, P. Keegan |
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