Black Rock Forest hiking , Hudson Valley, New York, United States

Why hike at Black Rock Forest ?

Black Rock Forest is a 3,830-acre (1,550 ha) privately owned nature preserve in the western Hudson Highlands region of the U.S. state of New York. It is in Orange County, mostly in the town of Cornwall, with the southern fringe overlapping into the neighboring town of Highlands. It is managed for educational, recreational and scientific purposes by The Black Rock Forest Consortium, a group of similarly oriented organizations. First established by a local resident in 1928, the forest was the property of Harvard University until 1989. The consortium has invested heavily in facilities to not only improve its research and educational missions but promote sustainability, erecting several green buildings in the middle of the forest with guest facilities, classrooms and laboratories. Its educational facilities are used by groups at every level, from the primary elementary grades to college undergraduates. Over 400 papers have been published from research done in the forest. The Black Rock Forest is a 3,827 acre preserve located in the Hudson Highlands of New York. The forest is named for the black rock outcroppings that are found throughout the preserve. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, bobcats, and coyotes. There are also a variety of birds that can be found in the forest, including hawks, owls, and woodpeckers. The forest is open to the public for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. In addition to its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, Black Rock Forest is part of a larger network supported by institutions like Columbia University and funded by organizations such as the National Science Foundation. This collaboration enhances research opportunities across various disciplines. Visitors can explore trails like the Blue Trail which offers stunning views of landmarks such as Storm King Mountain and the Hudson River. The area surrounding Black Rock Forest includes notable locations such as Continental Road and Hill of Pines which provide additional scenic routes for exploration. Nearby New York City residents often visit this serene escape from urban life. Prominent figures like William Golden have contributed to conservation efforts here while individuals like Kevin Griffin advocate for sustainable practices within New York State's natural reserves. Tech giants like Google have shown interest in supporting environmental initiatives within regions like these due to their significant ecological value.

---