Keleher Preserve Gulf Hill Rd · Voorheesville, NY
We ended up hiking just over 4 miles through the woods and old forest. It took us about 2 hours. The elevation gain was an easy 450 feet or so. It was a pleasant stroll to a small overlook in an amazing old growth forest. On the way there or back be sure to drive by the overlook on Thatcher Park road to see this post view of Albany and beyond.
The best view in the summer we found was on the slope of the hillside that wound around some crazy old trees to a sturdy bench to take a break on if you need one. It is an all-season hike but the views would be better in the late fall or winter months.
We saw quite a few animals, and managed to get this shot of a young fawn. She was just as curious about us as we enjoyed watching her.
The historic preserve is operated by the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy, so trails are clearly marked and extremely well maintained. There are features of the original farm that the land was used for from the 18th Century, including hand-thrown stone walls and an old logging road that cuts through the top of the hill. Great open spaces dot along the trails to stop for a picnic. Keep an eye out for porcupines sleeping in the trees during the day, and remember coyotes and black bears are a possibility in this environment. Easy parking and a trailhead with a ton of info and maps makes this great for everyone! You’re far enough out in rural Upstate, New York that the sounds of civilization are silenced. It’s wonderful.
Start at the Keleher Preserve, Gulf Hill Rd, Voorheesville, NY 12186.