Tucked away in the back roads of a residential neighborhood you’ll find the faded sign and trailhead for the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve [Shady Lane, Saugerties, NY 12477].
You’ll share the trails with local residents walking their dogs, seen far and few between. Take a good look at the trail map and head out to traverse the trails between 2 or 3 miles long, they are well marked, but can be a little confusing to a first time visitor.
Follow picturesque tributaries that flow out to Esopus Creek.
Enjoy the banks of the Esopus and surrounding wetlands, meadows, and woods.
This is a peaceful beautiful land. As you head away from the woods towards the meadow you will see the big bend in the creek where it acquires its name. A walk into the maze of trails in the meadow will reveal many birds and some great trees. I particularly loved a large one with a ton of separate stumps shooting up and a bark vine which allowed a face-in-hole photo op.
The hike is mild with only bouts of rolling elevation. It’s a perfect spot for a quaint nature walk which allows you to gainer a closer knowledge of the Esopus Creek.