The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Nature

Stay Grounded: Three Local Hiking Destinations to Try

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PHOTO BY PIA HAAS

Hiking or nature walking is a favorite year-round pastime for many. It is a wonderful way to reconnect with Mother Nature. It is a chance to simply breathe in the fresh air and unplug from our busy, over-programmed lives.

The many benefits of hiking include reducing stress while improving our mood. Part of the beauty of hiking is admiring the world around us, too. The experience helps us to stay grounded in the moment and focus on simple pleasures like the crisp air against our faces, the sound of the leaves rustling, the gentle babbling of a stream, or the smell of a bed of leaves on a crisp fall morning.

Mother Nature reminds us to never take a single moment for granted. At the height of the pandemic, my daily walks helped keep me both sane and fulfilled. I ventured out on the trails and discovered some local gems! These are short escapes with tremendous payoffs. Have an hour? Take one of these low-key, less-traveled hikes.

PHOTO BY PIA HAAS

Marian Yarrow Nature Preserve

432-428 Mt. Holly Road, Katonah, NY

Located in Lewisboro, Westchester County, the preserve comprises almost 80 acres and has over two miles of trails. This lovely hike will lead you through hardwood forests made up primarily of black birch, lots of white ash, white and red oak, and large-tooth aspen trees. En route, you’ll discover wetlands, lakes, and streams.

The trails are secluded enough that most of my treks there have been blessed with peaceful solitude. It is unlikely that you’ll come across many other people while exploring this beautiful place.

When you reach Hidden Lake, stop to watch for migratory birds; pileated woodpeckers, wood ducks, palm warblers, hermit thrushes, ovenbirds and indigo buntings have all been spotted here! Other lake dwellers include red-spotted newts, spotted salamanders, box and painted turtles, star-nosed moles, and mink. I encountered a beautiful fox who looked at me with soulful eyes before scampering off.

Near the lake, you will find a small stream cascading down into a 30-foot waterfall before flowing into the Indian Brook. The remainder of the preserve combines rugged and gentle terrain as well as a small meadow.

The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit any time. There is a four car parking area at the entrance. Dogs are also welcome, but must be on a leash.

PHOTO BY PIA HAAS

Baxter Preserve

80-170 Baxter Road, North Salem, NY

This gorgeous site in North Salem, Westchester County, is 114 acres in total and has a large eight-acre pond surrounded by easy-to-walk trails. The parcel was donated by the North Salem Open Land Foundation in 1979.

With its combination of trails, forest, and meadows, Baxter preserve is a wonderful place for birding, cross-country skiing, and hiking. I’ve also seen horse-back riders and an occasional fisherman.

The trails are mostly wide and open, lined with a variety of trees including black cherry, cottonwood, maple, and apple.

The kaleidoscope of intensely colorful foliage in the fall and winter as well as the bounty of breathtaking wildflowers in the spring and summer make this a year-round wonder.

The trails are level and mostly covered with grass, which makes them easy for walking and enjoying the scenery. The main trail, called “The Racetrack”, is a 1.9-mile loop and circles the pond. It was once a place where people watched point-to-point horse races in the 1950’s.

The second trail in the Baxter Preserve diverges off the eastern part of the Racetrack; this will lead you into several more fields. Look for walnut trees, jewelweed, and even leopard frogs, another interesting inhabitant of Baxter.

Smaller trails branch off and traverse more fields in the Preserve, where wildflowers, ironweed, and purple loosestrife flourish. These trails can be marshy and wet after rain, so be prepared to step through puddles.

You can also check in on the chickens, who are usually happily clucking in their enclosure in the nearby farm.

The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

You can find the entrance to the trails in an open field located on Baxter Road. Roadside parking is available.

PHOTO BY PIA HAAS

Zofnass Family Preserve

258 Upper Shad Road, Pound Ridge, NY

On an astounding 127 acres in Pound Ridge, Westchester County, this beautiful preserve includes an eight-mile trail network of rocky woods, streams, and marshes. Along the trails, you will find hundreds of stepping stones for crossing streams and wetlands, a 50’ tall stone staircase, old stone walls, and even a fort. There is also the great benefit of a three-acre arboretum, which features over 250 plant species.

Anyone in need of solitude and serenity might appreciate that the preserve is not heavily traveled. It’s a wonderful place to spend an afternoon walking in the forest and exploring the arboretum.

The trails are beautifully maintained and well-defined with printed educational plaques posted throughout and maps posted at major junctions, making it simple to navigate. I found it to be terrific, easy hiking, although the conditions could prove a bit challenging at some times of the year due to mud, tree roots, or uneven, rocky sections.

We are encouraged to look for wood frogs, spring peepers, yellow-throated vireos, rose-breasted grosbeaks, and wild turkeys.

Paul Zofnass, a Pound Ridge resident and member of the Westchester Land Trust’s Board of Directors, came up with the idea of creating a trail preserve here and over 10 years, put the project together. Paul and his family donated land, persuaded their neighbors to donate land, and created the impressive trail system. One of Paul Zofnass’ neighbors is Jane Pauley, after whom ‘Pauley’s Point’ was named. Another spot, ‘Trudeau’s Point of View,’ was named after her husband, cartoonist Garry Trudeau. They generously gave their land to the trust.

The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

There are two designated parking areas which can accommodate four to five cars each.

PERSONAL SAFETY PLUS AN UPDATE ON THE COUNTY TRAILWAYS

Any time you hike, it’s best to have a buddy with you. Whatever you decide, however, always bring a fully charged phone, plenty of water, snacks, and sun block.

Some good news for hikers using the North and South County Trailway and the Bronx River Pathway: Smart Signs with QR codes have been installed at trailheads and access points. The new mile markers with municipality names make it easier for trail users to relay where they are in case of an emergency. The signage includes a 9-1-1 locator sticker and a unique QR code for the trail, so emergency services can easily locate the person in need. Be sure to make a note of the mile marker information each time you pass an Emergency SOS 9-1-1 sign along the trails.

Calling All Nature Lovers

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One of the best things about living in the 914 is the bucolic beauty and fall is one of the best seasons to soak it all in. The Westchester Land Trust is holding several events this fall to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. A few of our favorites are:

Guided Autumn Bird Walk

Saturday, November 2, 2019
8:30am – 10:00 am

WLT’s Otter Creek Preserve Taylors Lane, Mamaroneck. Birds are on the move! Janelle Robbins, WLT Advisory Board Member and birder extraordinaire, will teach bird lovers and enthusiasts about the diversity of migrating birds that find food and shelter at this one-of-a-kind salt marsh. Bring binoculars! Rain date: Sunday, Nov 3, 8:30 am – 10:00 am.

Trek Turkey Mountain

Sunday, November 17, 2019
1:00pm – 3:00 pm

Turkey Mountain Preserve Trailhead, Locke Lane, Yorktown Heights. Celebrate National Hike Day on this moderate hike with spectacular views. This group hike is a great chance to enjoy the natural world and meet new people. Grab a buddy (and a snack) and head to Turkey Mountain. Rain or Shine.

 

 

WLT Volunteer Stewardship Day, Give Thanks to the Land  

Friday, Nov 22, 2019

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. WLT’s Frederick P. Rose Preserve and Rock Shelter Preserve, 193 N Salem Road, Cross River. Help preserve the trails you love!  Celebrate the season of giving by helping to expand a meadow and blueberry thicket to shelter birds and pollinators. Rain or Shine.

 

 

 

Holiday Tree ID Hike

Sunday, December 8, 2019

10:00 am – 12:00 pm.

WLT’s Westchester Wilderness Walk/ Zofnass Family Preserve, 258 Upper Shad Road, Pound Ridge. Explore the wintry landscape and learn techniques to identify trees during the winter months. This program is perfect for those looking to gain outdoor knowledge or those looking to get out outside for a fun winter walk!  Rain date: Sunday, Dec 15, 1-3 pm.

Westchester Land Trust works with public and private partners to preserve land in perpetuity, and to enhance the natural resources in Westchester and eastern Putnam counties. More information about these events and other fall events can be found at westchesterlandtrust.org.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exploring Wampus Pond: A Bucolic Beauty

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One sunny spring day last month, my family and I packed a light lunch and set out to explore the bucolic beauty of Wampus Pond in Armonk. The expansive pond is certainly the focal point of the park and the first thing you see as you enter. It’s amazing to think that right off one of the busiest roads in the area, such a peaceful enclave of nature exists. Wampus Pond is one of those hidden-in-plain-sight gems that you don’t want to miss. If you’ve never been, may I suggest a visit in the near future–you won’t be disappointed.

Located right on Route 128 in the Town of New Castle and the Town of North Castle, Wampus Pond is a breathtaking jewel of a park. The park offers an array of activities for all–whether you want a bit of an adventure or you just want to sit peacefully with a good book while enjoying nature.

Wampus Pond was named after the Indian from whom the land was originally bought in 1696. The name Wampus means “opossum” and the natural pond was formerly known as Wampus Lake Reservoir. Wampus Pond was once part of the New York City water supply and in 1963, Westchester County bought Wampus Pond and 93 acres from the City of New York.

Recently, a cultural resources inventory was performed which unearthed several Native American artifacts as well as remnants of historically significant residential developments in or near the park. The rich history of the land makes for a truly thought-provoking visit through Wampus Pond. You never know what you may come across or who may have walked the same path hundreds of years ago.

Activities All Year Long

Throughout the year, there are many things for visitors to do at Wampus Pond including ice skating, fishing, boating and bird-watching. Dogs are welcome in the park but must be on a leash at all times and are not permitted in the picnic areas. One activity that many anticipate in the warmer months is the opening of the pond for row-boating. Take a few hours to enjoy a peaceful sail across the pond or pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it.

Rowboat rentals are available on weekends and holidays, Memorial Day through Labor Day, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Visitors may rent the boats in the building situated between the parking lot and the water. Boat rentals can be purchased hourly or daily and the fee is discounted for those with a Westchester County Park Pass. Visitors may also choose to bring their own car-top boats but must have a permit.

In addition to the rowboats, there are picnic tables set up throughout the park so visitors may be able to relax and enjoy the serenity of the park’s natural surroundings. Wampus Pond makes for the perfect spot to enjoy a quick lunch-hour break, relaxing in its quiet serenity. Please note the park is a carry in/carry out facility.

As Westchester County Parks Deputy Commissioner Peter Tartaglia says, “Wampus Pond is a fantastic spot for a picnic, to study nature or take a few turns in a rowboat on a beautiful summer day. Its location on Route 128 between Armonk and Mount Kisco make it an easy spot to visit when you’re visiting either or both towns.”

Take some time to visit Wampus Pond throughout the year. In the spring, the buds on the trees start to come alive, while in the fall all of the gorgeous autumnal colors of the leaves frame the pond. Kids and adults alike will enjoy ice skating in the winter while summertime is made for boating. Wampus Pond is one of Westchester’s loveliest spots and it’s right here in Armonk. Plan your visit soon and prepare to be amazed with its splendor.

The Devil in a Day

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(L-R): Matt Chmielecki and Walter Staudenmaier

The Devil’s Path is considered one of the most difficult hikes in the country. Located in the Catskill Mountains about a two-hour drive north of Chappaqua; the trail is approximately 25 miles long with six peaks and 16,000 feet of elevation. For most brave adventurers who take on this challenge, it is tackled over the course of two to three days; but for the past four years an ambitious group of Dads from Chappaqua have partaken in what has become an annual tradition of completing the hike in one grueling 14-hour stretch.

When the weather starts to get warm, but before summer’s heat sets in, the men call in a personal day at work and forgo their usual train commute into the City. They pack their cars with supplies and convoy north to the Catskills.

Practice hikes take place in advance. Brian  Cook takes his training very seriously. To prepare for his inaugural hike he was often seen walking around town with a weighted backpack to simulate the supplies he would be carrying. Andy Shaiken, who has also completed the New York City marathon, considers the hike to be “more difficult and more rewarding” in comparison.

The men depart on a Thursday night. They leave one car full of supplies at the halfway point and another at the end. It is not an out and back trail, so they finish at a different point from where they start. They then check into the Kaatskill Mountain Club Hotel and attempt to go to bed early; but nerves prevent much sleep. At 4 a.m. they wake up and the long day begins.

Walter Staudenmaier, who will be hiking the Devil’s Path for the fourth year this Spring, packs seven bacon and banana sandwiches, fourteen GU energy gels and twelve liters of a 50/50 water and Gatorade mix as his personal fuel of choice.

They rendezvous in the parking lot and head to the trail for a 4:45 a.m. sharp departure. There is excited and nervous banter at the beginning. A brisk pace is set. It’s dark, so headlamps are needed for the first 45-minute gradual uphill climb. Putting one foot in front of the other, the monotony of the hike sets in and the first hill quickly disappears. A regimen is established; the hikers briefly stop every 45 minutes to take salt tablets and supplements to offset what their bodies are expending. Few additional stops are taken.

The first half of the hike consists of three intense peaks. “There is an incredibly steep descent to the halfway point of the trail that rattles your knees, your toes are banging into your boots at every step.” Recalls Staudenmaier.

At the halfway point, the men take a well-deserved 30-minute break. They get off their feet, massage their legs, change clothes, replenish supplies, use tiger balm to try to get muscles loose and prepare to set off again.

The second half begins with a torturous vertical climb and exhaustion quickly sets in. A third of the way into the second half the hikers feel extremely uncomfortable. The last four hours are “complete misery; every single step hurts.”

(L-R): Chappaqua Dads, Brian Cook, Andrew Skala, Andy Shaiken, Walter Staudenmaier, and Eric Rose

About halfway through the second half is the point of no return. Until then, the path is always no more than a couple of miles away from a put out; but towards the end that option is lost because it’s the same distance to finish as all other exit points. At about eleven hours in, with approximately three hours remaining, there is no way out except to finish.

“Hiking for 14+ hours straight is a whole lot easier when you are sharing the struggle with good friends.  It also helps to have a cooler full of beer at the end of the trail waiting for us.” Says Matt Chmielecki, a Cross Fit enthusiast who will be hiking the trail for the third year this Spring.

Overall, the first half of the hike is much more technical and challenging; there are a lot of rock ledges and obstacles. The second half is easier but exhaustion gets in the way of appreciating it. The fatigue gets so intense in the second half, the hikers don’t take many photos; only at the very end.

The journey shifts from struggle to relief once the hike is complete. A steak dinner at the hotel is the final reward, in addition to the satisfaction of having completed “the Devil” in a day.

PHOTOS courtesy of Sabra Staudenmaier

 

A Bucolic Westchester Jewel that’s Fit for a Rockefeller

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Tucked away in Sleepy Hollow, only 30 miles north of New York City, the beloved jewel known as the Rockefeller State Park Preserve is resplendent in the natural beauty for which Westchester is renowned. It is, however, distinguished by a storied history and the meticulous support of the Rockefeller family.

The property, formerly the Pocantico Hills and Rockwood Hall country estates of the John D. Rockefeller family and William Rockefeller, dates back to 1886. In 1983, the Rockefeller Family generously donated over 1425 acres to the State of New York to safeguard these lands for future generations.

Today, the Preserve is home to forests, fields, streams, and wetlands that support a high diversity of native species of resident and migratory birds, mammals, insects, amphibians, reptiles, fish and aquatic species. Managed by New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, the Preserve is open to the public year-round, sunrise to sunset.

Friends Who Are Family

In 1996, to provide additional support to protect the Preserve, George Gumina, established the Friends of the Rockefeller State Park Preserve. Serving as president and founder, Gumina is also a Rockefeller family member as his wife is the granddaughter of Nelson Rockefeller.

PHOTO BY JOE GOLDEN

Preserving the land is personal for him as he explains, “Since Uncle John donated the land to the state, Aunt Peggy acted as a steward of the land. It was her primary residence and she loved the land. When she passed, with the family’s support, I began the ‘Friends’ group in her honor.” The organization actively supports educational programs, major exhibits and maintaining the preserve’s unique system of its lovely carriage roads.

Those funds are instrumental in the upkeep of the extensive network of carriage roads that characterize the park. The well-engineered 16-foot-wide, crushed-stone, network of 65-mile carriage roads were designed by John D. Rockefeller Sr. and his son, John D. Jr., over a 40-plus year period from 1910 into the 1950s. The winding roads overlook stunning vistas and serve as the signature feature of the preserve.

Gumina adds, “The carriage roads are what bring everyone here. From Day One, these roads were built for the public to enjoy–they were never just for the family. They are ideal for runners, pedestrians, horseback and carriage riding. You could walk on wide, manicured roads for miles and bring your dogs without worrying about ticks.” Over 400,000 visitors concur and visit the roads from all around the world each year.

PHOTO BY JESSIKA CREEDON

Noble Endeavors

The Friends group hosts several fundraising events throughout the year, but the Peony Celebration, an annual cocktail event held in May, is one of the largest fundraisers. The peony garden was donated by a town in Shimane Prefecture, Japan following the tragedy of September 11th to express a gesture of healing and solidarity towards the United States. They sent a gift of 500 peonies, considered to be Japan’s “most noble of flowers.”

Planting this garden was a culmination of true partnership. The Friends initiated a major landscaping project around the park’s gateway to provide a worthy site for this generous gift, while gardeners from Japan came to plant the flowers and teach the preserve staff how to care for them. Each year, it serves as the stunning backdrop to raise funds for the Friends’ ongoing initiatives.

Gumina explains the importance of such events saying, “The state has an $8M endowment donated by the family that many parks do not enjoy that supplements budgetary needs, but maintaining the intricate details of this special property is costly. That’s why the family remains present to provide as much support as we can with four family members actively on the board. This year, we hope to raise enough funds to refurbish Brother’s Path, named for Uncle David and Uncle Laurance, which circles Swan Lake.”

PHOTO BY JESSIKA CREEDON

Preserving Beauty for Generations

Rockefeller State Park Preserve recently celebrated a major milestone! The New York State Historic Review Board unanimously designated it as a State National Registry of Historic Places listed in Washington D.C., in recognition of the unique beauty and character of the carriage roads.

According to Gumina, the accolade is well-earned, “I call it the Central Park of Westchester, although I think it’s much nicer than Central Park–I’ve been there. From the carriage roads to Swan Lake to the wonder of its natural setting, it’s just absolutely stunning. It’s a beautiful backdrop for being active as well as those who simply wish to sit and meditate. It’s quite magnificent.”