It’s no secret that we are almost spoiled for choice in Westchester County when it comes to finding a favorite hiking trail. These days with the kids in tow, I find that no diaper bag is big enough for the amount of snacks a rock scramble or daylong outing would require. At this season in our lives, we seek out locations with lots of nature bathing variety, plus exhibits and events that are accessible and engaging to a mix of ages.
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This past weekend, we explored Teatown Lake Preserve as a family and with friends. We’ve heard about the hot commodity Teatown is for camp aged children and have even spent a few summers on the waitlist, and we were so pleased to discover for ourselves all that it has to offer year round. If you are looking for a family friendly hike in the Rivertowns region of Westchester County, here are three ways to enjoy Teatown Lake Preserve:
- Indoor and outdoor exhibits including an animal sanctuary: There is just something about an exceptionally large bunny that can bring a smile to even the most tired of toddlers. Teatown is home to a variety of feathered, furry, and cold-blooded creatures that have been rescued and rehabilitated. Although they can no longer live independently in the wild, they are cared for with love and help visitors to understand firsthand the biodiversity of our area. The gallery also hosts rotating art exhibitions, and the Wildflower Woods serve as an outdoor classroom. The Nature Center also has a thoughtfully curated gift shop.
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- Nature programs for all ages: On this recent visit, a Winter Tree Walk was just kicking off and included groups of families and friends, as well as single naturalists enjoying the community these events offer. Some events are suitable for targeted ages and others are open to all.
- Trails, trails, and more trails: Over 15 miles of trails ramble through 1,000 acres of protected land. Easy, moderate, and strenuous hiking trails are managed and maintained year round for visitor use. Trails range from just under a mile (for all levels) to the strenuous Three Lakes Loop that comes in at 3.8 miles. The Lakeside Loop trail is considered easy and at 1.5 miles is great for varied ability hikers. It is not stroller accessible, but many parts are flat and all parts are scenic. There are a number of places to sit, sometimes on beautifully carved wooden benches, and stone steps for the steeper parts. Our toddler to tween family members all enjoyed this trail. It feels like a “real” hike because of the twisty paths and roots to watch out for, and there are also bridges to “trip trap” over and endless discoveries to make.
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We recommend you take a look for yourself! Teatown Lake Preserve is a beautiful place to visit any time of year.
More information: Visitor Center - Teatown
Address:
1600 Spring Valley Road
Ossining, NY 10562
Hours: Dawn-to-dusk daily
