Nutten Hook
Town of Stuyvesant (Columbia County)
Why we love it
Explore a rare remnant of a once-vital valley industry — and enjoy superb views — by walking the short loop on this rock outcrop in the Hudson River. It leads to the ruins of the Scott Ice House, the largest of 130-some local businesses essential for keeping food fresh in pre-refrigerator days. Here blocks of river ice sawn during the winter awaited transport to NYC during warming months. Stored in hay or sawdust in huge, windowless warehouses, the ice could last up to three years before melting. Interpretive panels describe the “harvesting” process.
More to explore
Bring a canoe or kayak — paddling through surrounding Stockport Flats, one of the Hudson River estuary’s most important habitats, offers outstanding opportunities to view wildlife, including bald eagles. Also check out the fine collection of 19th-century buildings in the small nearby community of Newton Hook.
Highlights
- Short trail leading to icehouse ruins
- Picnic tables
- Car-top boat launch
Directions, hours, etc.: https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/92355.html
