Bozen Kill Preserve
Overview
A challenging woodland hike with stream views and wildlife, ideal for experienced hikers craving a longer, engaging outdoor workout and social vibe.
Details
Bozen Kill Preserve
Rating: B2C
Roundtrip Distance: 5.7 miles +/-
Elevation Gain: 500 +/-
This hike will cover about 5.7 miles and about 500 feet elevation gain. Hiking poles are suggested for a water crossing although it’s expected to be rather dry this time of the year. We will be hiking for 3 to 4 hours depending on our pace and number of stops. This is Not a beginner or slow-paced hike so please sign up according to your ability to do this hike.
The Bozen Kill Preserve offers easy stream-side walks to small waterfalls and a longer trail system for those looking for a more moderate walk in the woods. The preserve is located at the base of the Bozen Kill Ravine. In this area, known as the Bozen Kill Conservation Corridor, Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy (MHLC) protects nearly 700 acres. Many species of wildlife can be seen at the preserve on their way to and from this deeper wilderness area. The 225-acre Bond Road addition to the Bozen Kill Preserve opened to the public on December 22, 2024. The new addition expands the existing trail system to nearly 6 miles, making it MHLC's most extensive trail system. The new entrance to the (Upper) Bozen Kill Preserve is located just north of the Westfall Road entrance (Lower), at the end of Bond Road.
Directions to the meeting location:
This hike will begin at the lower entrance to the Preserve off of Westfall Road in the Village of Altamont. If you’re using Google Maps, enter BZK Nature Preserve and you can find directions to the Preserve.
The hike will take us on trails in the lower part of the ravine where we will have views of the carving done the Bozen Kill over many centuries. Then we will travel to the upper rim on the Bozen Kill ravine and see the extent of the carving from this waterbody. Many of the trails in the upper area were installed not too long ago. A large wetland is passed in the upper area. There are two stream crossings which can be tricky depending on the flow of water. So, hiking poles are recommended. From the upper part of the Preserve, we will travel down to the cars.
Make sure you bring microspikes or other traction for this hike. Snowshoes will probably not be necessary, but you might want to bring to practice using them. Temperatures will be in the teens so make sure you have the right winter clothing.
Please contact the leader if you have any questions.