Ferncliff Forest and The VPo Man

VPo in the Hudson Valley!

Nearing the tower

VPo on the tower

Not a bad sunset

The VPo Man made his way back to the Hudson Valley fresh off his trip from Argentina and Chile, hiking volcanos and walking amongst penguins.

Today he'd have to settle for a bit less.  We took a nice little stroll to the fire tower to watch the sunset.  The VPo man pointed out how the northeast doesn't provide the best sunsets.  I'd have to agree.  Some of the best I've seen were out west, although I have seen a few sunrises in the past year on my way to work that were extraordinary.  Tonight's sunset was great.  The sun setting over the Catskills and hanging out with an old, great friend cannot be beat.

Esopus Meadows Preserve

So, it's about 150 miles from Albany to NYC

Looking north at Kaaterskill High Peak

Mills Mansion

Swampy area

Looking south

Esopus Lighthouse

Lovely trails here

It's only March, but the snakes are out

This is another gem of a park of Scenic Hudson.  Located less than 20 minutes away, this would be my first visit.  It's amazing what is found in my own backyard.

Esopus Meadows is located just south of Port Ewen.  The drive along River Road provides outstanding views of the Hudson.  I envy those that have houses on the road.  They get these views on a daily basis.

The parking lot sits along the river.  One doesn't even have to leave their vehicle to enjoy the views.  But as most places, it's always better to get out.  The walk provided some wonderful views across the river to Mills Mansion, the Esopus Lighthouse and some great views of the Catskills.  Spring also seems to have arrived.  Some early spring colors were to be had.  Trees were already budding and the cool breeze off the river made you glad to be outside.  

Falling Waters Preserve

I can go for that!

Looking south

Irene did some real damage here

The Dominican Sisters help preserve some of this land

Falling waters

Tivoli

The Saugerties Lighthouse

Located in Saugerties, this little preserve is protected by Scenic Hudson.  Only recently have I discovered these sweet, little preserves that Scenic Hudson protects.  Falling Waters is just an excellent place for an easy stroll.  The three trails total roughly 2.5 miles.  The trails follow some old farmland passing a few waterfalls.  Two of the trails walk along the Hudson River affording great views of the Saugerties Lighthouse, Tivoli Bays, some large estates and the Village of Tivoli across the way.