Located on the former Pocantico Hills and Rockwood Hall country estates of the Rockefeller family, this 1,771-acre (7.1 km2) park is known for its wildlife, carriage trails, and scenic vistas.
The park’s 55 miles of carriage roads allow visitors to view the various habitats of the park, including open meadows, dense forest, meandering brooks, wetlands, and 24-acre Swan Lake. Hiking and horseback riding are permitted on these trails. You’ll be glad you read this!
Walk the Carriage Roads
Rockefeller State Park Preserve is a great place to walk, jog, or horseback ride. You can enjoy beautiful scenic vistas of wooded and open meadows, meandering brooks, wetlands, and the 24-acre Swan Lake.
The park has over 45 miles of carriage roads or crushed stone trails. These paths lead through the various habitats and past natural and historical features like Swan Lake, the Pocantico River, and the old colonial stone walls and stone scapes of the area.
Thanks to the efforts of George Gumina, a former New York Governor’s son-in-law, the park’s trails are in the process of being nominated for the Historic Register of Places. You can get information and maps about the trails at the Preserve office, located in Pleasantville NY on Route 117.
Take a Hike
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, a hike can be a great way to relax and unwind. In New York State, there are a wide variety of hikes to choose from.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve is a great place to visit. It offers 45 miles of carriage roads designed for walking, running, and riding.
The trails are very well-maintained and easy to navigate. Even novice hikers and toddlers can take advantage of these trails.
The preserve also offers several trails that take you through wooded areas and along gurgling streams. There’s also a trail that circles Swan Lake, which features several preserved wooden and stone bridges and rock outcroppings. This article is worth reading.
Visit the Nature Center
A short drive from New York City, Rockefeller State Park Preserve is a great place to go for a hike. The trails are wide and easy to walk.
There is also a beautiful nature center here that has plenty of information about the park and its history. You can also see the tree peony garden and check out the art gallery.
Rockefeller State Park is an important resource for Westchester County as it provides a means to connect people with the natural world. It is a valuable tool for conservation, ecology, and agricultural education.
Enjoy a Picnic
A picnic at Rockefeller State Park Preserve is a perfect way to take a break from the city and enjoy some fresh air. With a lake and river, woodlands, and fields, the park is filled with gorgeous views that will have you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Aside from its many trails, the park also has a scenic picnic area located along Swan Lake and a scenic bridge overlooking the Pocantico River.
The park is also home to 45 miles of historic carriage roads designed by John D. Rockefeller Sr. & Jr. Traversing through woodlands, meadows & fields, the trails are easy to walk, ride or drive on and offer spectacular views of the Hudson River.
Take a Tour of Rockwood Hall
The Tour of Rockwood Hall is a great way to enjoy the Hudson River, while also getting a glimpse of William Rockefeller’s mansion. This portion of the park has been given to New York State by the Rockefeller Family since 1983 and is one of the most unique areas of the park.
This section of the park has a beautiful view of the Hudson River and the Tappan Zee Bridge, as well as massive rocks that surround the foundation of Rockwood Hall, once a 220-room estate. The park also has copper beeches and specimen trees that provide a beautiful backdrop to the area.
This is a fantastic area for hiking, especially in the spring or summer. You can find trails that lead to Swan Lake, Ferguson Lake, and Buttermilk Hill, all of which offer different opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, or other outdoor activities. Click here for the next blog post.
Driving directions from NestEdge Realty to Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Driving directions from Rockefeller State Park Preserve to Leonard Park
