- + PLACES TO GO
- SKIING / WINTER ADVENTURES
- + THINGS TO DO
- + WINE & DINE
- + STAY
- + TOURS
- MAP-IT
- + CALENDAR
- + BLOGS & MORE
- Site Search
Discover Albany's vast Pine Bush Preserve
Locally known as the Pine Bush near ALBANY, this 3,350-acre preserve is one of the largest of the 20 inland pine barrens in the world.
Locally known as the Pine Bush, this 3,350-acre preserve is one of the largest of the 20 inland pine barrens in the world. It is centrally located in New York's Capital District, set between the majestic Catskill and Adirondack mountains.
The preserve offers roughly18 miles of trails and rests on 3,200 acres of wilderness that feature expansive meadows and a discovery center. Known for its gently rolling sand-dunes, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is home to a unique variety of rare plants and animals, including the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly.
Visitors young and old are invited to venture into the preserve or explore the Discovery Center where learning comes naturally through hands-on activities. Also offered are programs for families, adults, and groups including school groups of all ages that include hikes, lectures and interactive presentations on a variety of subjects including history, plants, animals and geology. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are welcome and encouraged.
According to Albany.com, more than 200 bird species have been spotted on the preserve, including prairie warblers, red-tailed hawks and pileated woodpeckers. The Kings Road Barrens Trail and Great Dune Trail offer some of the best spots for bird enthusiasts.
Dogs are welcome to enjoy the preserve, too!
The preserve offers roughly18 miles of trails and rests on 3,200 acres of wilderness that feature expansive meadows and a discovery center. Known for its gently rolling sand-dunes, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is home to a unique variety of rare plants and animals, including the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly.
Visitors young and old are invited to venture into the preserve or explore the Discovery Center where learning comes naturally through hands-on activities. Also offered are programs for families, adults, and groups including school groups of all ages that include hikes, lectures and interactive presentations on a variety of subjects including history, plants, animals and geology. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are welcome and encouraged.
According to Albany.com, more than 200 bird species have been spotted on the preserve, including prairie warblers, red-tailed hawks and pileated woodpeckers. The Kings Road Barrens Trail and Great Dune Trail offer some of the best spots for bird enthusiasts.
Dogs are welcome to enjoy the preserve, too!
Pet Friendly
Albany, NY
Current Conditions
28°F
Clouds
Thu Dec 12 | Fri Dec 13 | Sat Dec 14 | Sun Dec 15 | Mon Dec 16 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|
8am | 36° | 26° | 24° | 24° | 34° |
2pm | 34° | 26° | 27° | 30° | 37° |
8pm | 32° | 28° | 28° | 34° | 38° |
Dining near Albany Lodging near Albany Things To Do near Albany Camping / RV near Albany
LOOK WHAT ELSE
IS CLOSE BY
Skate at the Empire State Plaza
Besides featuring an ice rink, The Empire State Plaza is a spectacular capital center, the seat of NYS government and a cultural hub.
Schodack Island State Park
Recreational activities abound at Schodack Island State Park with picnicking, fishing, hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and access to ice skating and snowshoe trail in the winter.
Moreau Lake State Park
The 4,531-acre state park Moreau Lake State Park is open year-round and features a beautiful lake with peaceful wooded campgrounds.
Skate at the Empire State Plaza
The Empire State Plaza is a spectacular capital center, the seat of NYS government and a cultural hub featuring family-friendly events and activities.