Hemlock Brook Preserve

For New Yorkers seeking a tranquil escape from the daily grind, a hidden gem awaits in Yorktown Heights: Hemlock Brook Preserve. This beautiful, 14-acre nature preserve, managed by the Westchester Land Trust, offers a remarkably peaceful and scenic retreat that feels far removed from the hustle and bustle, yet is conveniently located right in your backyard. It's the kind of place locals cherish for its quiet charm and untouched natural beauty, a perfect spot to relax, unwind, and reconnect with the simple pleasures of the outdoors.

Hemlock Brook Preserve is characterized by a deep, hemlock-lined ravine through which a small, babbling brook gently flows. This unique geological feature, combined with a mixed hardwood forest, creates an atmosphere reminiscent of the Adirondacks, right here in the lower Hudson Valley. Visitors often speak of its serene ambiance and the opportunity to experience nature in a raw, untouched form. Adding to its unique character, the preserve holds a touch of history, with an old stone fireplace and foundation hinting at past human activity. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a quiet moment by the water, or a chance to spot local wildlife, Hemlock Brook Preserve provides a truly special experience for anyone in the New York region.

Hemlock Brook Preserve is located in Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA, with access points near Underhill Avenue and Baptist Church Road. The preserve is a part of the network of properties managed by the Westchester Land Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting open spaces. For visitors planning to drive, the primary access point and parking information are crucial to note. Limited parking is available in the road shoulder on the north side of Baptist Church Road. It is important for visitors to be mindful and avoid blocking the gate to the aqueduct when parking.

The trailhead for Hemlock Brook Preserve is located approximately 100 feet downhill from this shoulder parking area, situated across the road on the south side of Baptist Church Road. Look for a large green preserve sign to identify the entrance. While the preserve offers a more rustic and natural hiking experience, its trails are generally considered manageable for those able to navigate uneven terrain. The focus here is on preserving the natural environment, so extensive paved paths or facilities like restrooms may not be available. Visitors are encouraged to prepare for a natural walking experience and observe "Leave No Trace" principles to help maintain the preserve's pristine condition. Its location, close to the Croton Reservoir, also underscores its ecological importance in protecting water quality for the region.

As a nature preserve, Hemlock Brook Preserve prioritizes the protection of its natural environment and offers services primarily centered around allowing visitors to experience this preserved landscape. These include:

• Designated Hiking Trails: The preserve features trails that wind through the hemlock-lined ravine and mixed hardwood forest, offering peaceful walking and hiking opportunities. In June 2010, volunteers from Swiss Re in Armonk helped create a new loop trail within the preserve, enhancing the visitor experience.
• Nature Observation: The diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife, including great-horned owls, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing local fauna in their natural habitat.
• Stream Access: A small stream, Hemlock Brook, flows through the ravine, providing a serene backdrop and opportunities for quiet enjoyment by the water. Some areas may permit fishing, subject to New York State fishing regulations and any specific preserve guidelines, which typically emphasize catch-and-release and adherence to licenses.
• Historical Interest: The presence of an old stone fireplace and foundation near the brook adds a unique historical element to the preserve, inviting contemplation about its past.
• Year-Round Access: The preserve is generally open year-round from dawn to dusk, allowing visitors to experience its beauty across all seasons.
• Environmental Conservation: Managed by the Westchester Land Trust, the preserve's primary "service" is its dedication to conserving this vital natural space, which also plays a role in protecting the water quality of the nearby Croton Reservoir.

Hemlock Brook Preserve offers several distinct features and highlights that make it a truly special place for New Yorkers:

• The Hemlock-Lined Ravine: The preserve's namesake feature, this deep ravine creates a unique microclimate and a striking natural landscape that feels surprisingly remote, drawing comparisons to more northern wilderness areas like the Adirondacks.
• The Babbling Brook: The small stream, Hemlock Brook, runs through the heart of the preserve, providing a constant soothing sound and a focal point for much of the walking experience. Its clear, flowing water adds to the serene atmosphere.
• Historic Remnants: The discovery of an old stone chimney and foundation within the preserve offers a fascinating glimpse into its past, sparking curiosity and providing a unique point of interest along the trails. This unexpected historical touch adds character to the natural setting.
• Abundant Wildlife: The preserve's undisturbed nature makes it a haven for various wildlife, including sightings of great-horned owls, offering excellent opportunities for nature photography and wildlife observation.
• Mixed Hardwood Forest: Surrounding the hemlock ravine is a lush mixed hardwood forest, contributing to the preserve's biodiversity and offering beautiful foliage throughout the changing seasons.
• Peaceful and Secluded Atmosphere: One of the most frequently praised aspects of Hemlock Brook Preserve is its profound sense of peace and seclusion. It's often described as a "little gem" that many people don't know about, allowing for a truly quiet and undisturbed experience.
• Water Quality Protection: Its proximity to the Croton Reservoir and its role in protecting the watershed adds a layer of ecological significance to the preserve, highlighting its importance beyond just recreation.

As a nature preserve managed by the Westchester Land Trust, Hemlock Brook Preserve does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Its primary value to the public lies in its free and open access to a protected natural environment. However, there are ways that visitors can engage with and support the preserve, which can be seen as a form of community benefit:

• Free Public Access: The preserve is open to the public without an entrance fee, providing an accessible outdoor experience for everyone in the New York region.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The Westchester Land Trust, which manages the preserve, frequently organizes volunteer workdays for trail maintenance, invasive species removal, and other stewardship activities. Participating in these events is a fantastic way to connect with the preserve and contribute to its upkeep. While not a "promotion," it offers a unique and rewarding experience.
• Educational Events: While specific events at Hemlock Brook Preserve might be limited, the Westchester Land Trust periodically hosts educational programs, guided nature walks, or community clean-up days across its network of preserves. Locals interested in learning more about local ecology or conservation can look for these opportunities through the Land Trust's official website.
• Membership Benefits: Becoming a member of the Westchester Land Trust can offer members-only events, updates, and the satisfaction of supporting local land conservation efforts. While not a direct "promotion" for visiting the preserve, it contributes to its ongoing maintenance and accessibility.

The core "offer" of Hemlock Brook Preserve remains its serene and beautiful natural environment, freely available for all to enjoy responsibly.

For more information about Hemlock Brook Preserve and its management, you can refer to the details provided by the Westchester Land Trust:

Address: Underhill Ave, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA (Note: Specific access is often from Baptist Church Road as detailed in the Location block)

As a nature preserve, there isn't a direct phone number for the preserve itself. For inquiries related to the preserve, trail conditions, or to learn more about the Westchester Land Trust, you can typically find contact information for the Westchester Land Trust through their official website. They are the managing entity and the best source for authoritative information.

Westchester Land Trust Contact Information (general, for inquiries about their preserves):

Phone: (914) 234-6992

Website: westchesterlandtrust.org (Look for their "Preserves" section for details on Hemlock Brook Preserve)

It is always recommended to check the Westchester Land Trust's official website for the most up-to-date information on visiting guidelines, parking, and any potential alerts regarding trail conditions or closures.

Hemlock Brook Preserve is an exceptionally suitable destination for New York locals, especially those in the Westchester County area, offering a unique and precious connection to nature that feels both wild and accessible. Its status as a "little gem" known mostly to locals speaks to its undisturbed charm and tranquil atmosphere, providing a much-needed sanctuary from the fast pace of urban and suburban life. For residents, it's an easily reachable haven where one can truly relax and immerse themselves in natural beauty without the need for extensive travel.

The preserve's appeal lies in its simplicity and profound natural elements: the soothing sound of the babbling brook, the serene hemlock-lined ravine, and the peaceful mixed hardwood forest. These features create an ideal environment for quiet contemplation, gentle walks, and low-impact outdoor activities. The historical remnants, like the old chimney and foundation, add an intriguing layer to the experience, inviting visitors to ponder the past. While parking may be limited, this only adds to its secluded feel, ensuring that the preserve remains a peaceful retreat. Hemlock Brook Preserve is more than just a place to visit; it’s a vital natural asset for the community, offering a free, engaging, and deeply restorative outdoor experience that perfectly caters to the needs of New Yorkers seeking a genuine connection with their local environment.

Hemlock Brook Preserve

Underhill Ave, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA