Ferncliff Forest — Attraction in Town of Rhinebeck

Today on Mother’s Day 2021, I hiked the Ferncliff Forest located in Rhinebeck, NY. It was a great hike as there were so many different trails and paths all within the forest itself. I hiked as many of them as I could. Some paths were obviously major highways in the forest while others were barely trafficked at all. There were many bodies of waters, including: lake, swamp, and a few small ponds all in different areas of the forest. The Ferncliff Forest is very well maintained. There was nothing blocking the trails, there was no poisonous plants or animals that I was aware of. Some sections of the forest were a little muddy but not too bad where the path would be impassible. I came across a harmless snake, so watch where you step to avoid stepping on them! The birds were lively and I was able to get them to make some noise by whistling. There were plenty of people on the trail including children of all ages. The watch tower offered a swell view of the Hudson River as well as local land surrounding the forest in Rhinebeck. The terrain was rough and rugged very natural and forest like. Evidence of caretaking is not really visible even though the forest is obviously very well maintained. It’s maintained in a way that preserves it and makes it look completely natural and untouched aside from the paths and trails. This is an excellent place to go hiking as the forest is pretty large and covers an expansive area. The swamp there just looks absolutely magical and absolutely untouched. Other hikers are respectful to the local ecology. There are a few rough cabins where people can rest and unpack a lunch. There are bathrooms at the entrance. This is a very family, kids, and dog friendly place. I definitely plan on returning here to do this hike again. Also, I’ve found a new travel partner and she’s very pretty so hopefully you’ll soon see her featured in...

I’ve walked here many times over the years. It’s a great place to take a hike, run or mountain bike ride. Just minutes from Rhinebeck it’s easy to get to. They have doubled the size of the parking lot fixing what was an issue on busy summer weekends.

The trails are easy to follow. If it’s your first time here go on the Yellow trail. It’s under two miles for the full loop trail with the fire tower being at the .6 mile mark. While the fire tower is the highlight of the park, the marked and unmarked trails is what makes this park 5 Stars.

There is a Porta Potty by the lake under a quarter mile from the parking lot. There are a few leantos that needs to be booked to stay at. A couple of large pavilions including a larger new one is available to reserve for group events.

This is a great park for a short walk to the lake or a few mile...

Plenty of parking . Excellent facilities . Trails are plentiful . Room for social distancing at all times . Just about everyone wearing masks and/or have them readily available . I’m not afraid of heights but the tower climb; I had to stop & pause . Climb it , it’s worth it & you’ll see what I mean . Wasps up there can be crazy just move slowly ! I only did the yellow trail but would love to come back & explore !! Yellow can be completed easily in