Hiking in Rye: Edith Read Wildlife Sanctuary

Most children growing up in Westchester go to the great little amusement park Playland in Rye (Playland Parkway, Rye, NY 10580). I know I went every summer as a kid, and actually spent my 21^st birthday there having an apple pie time. I haven’t been back since until a few days ago, and not for the Dragon Coaster, but off season to take a hike at the Edith Read Wildlife Sanctuary a small preserve literally right next door. I never knew this place existed while I was eating cotton candy, but I’m glad I found out about it because it’s a beautiful place to hike. You actually have to drive into the Playland parking lot (free off season, $7 otherwise) and follow it to the end, by the water. Park your car and walk along the water because there is a gate that only members can go through. Keep walking past the boat house and you will reach the preserve entrance. There is a visitors center and some bird feeders great for bird watching. There was a lot of action going on, downy woodpeckers, chickadees, nuthatches, cardinals, and even squirrels were up for a free meal. It was great watching the pecking order and personalities of all of these different guys, any they definitely brought a splash of color into the day! There are three miles of trails including a ½ mile trail following the water. Lots of pampas grass and views of Playland in the distance. We saw the chickadees hanging about the grass and they weren’t upset with our presence at all, and kept nipping around. There are also wooded trails, some with boardwalks present as well, and you can step out onto a beautiful rocky beach. This was a very peaceful and quiet trail when we visited, only a few others out and about enjoying the serene nature.