Lets Hike Bennett Hill

Bennett Hill is one of Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy more popular preserves. This 155 acre property was a gift of Dr. Jerry Bilinski of North Chatham in 1998. The hill towers over Clarksville, and stands only a short distance from the base of the Helderberg Escarpment. Although the top of the hill is only 400 feet above the surrounding land, it offers views of the Helderbergs to the north and west, and Albany to the east.
The top of the Hill is a relatively flat plateau, the northern edge of the plateau is at an elevation of about 1120 feet; In the middle of the plateau is a small wetland at an elevation of 1100 feet. South of the wetland, the highest point on the Hill is at 1135 feet. The total height of the Hill is about 400 feet.
This hike should take us about two hours and is an easy “out and back” type of hike with some steep sections. We will climb the hill to the top of the plateau, circle around on the perimeter trail and then back down the same trail. The North end has limited views (better if the leaves are down) and will be a good spot to rest and have a snack.
Link to trail map: http://www.mohawkhudson.org/Images/BennettMap1.jpg
Things to be prepared for: This hike has some steep grades, and may be slippery with wet leaves you’ll want to be sure you have footwear with good traction and hiking poles will help if you have them. This area has deer ticks so gaiters are a good thing.
Minimum age is 8 (8-15 yrs must have a participating adult with them, 16-17 yrs must have a parent/guardian sign participant agreement but do not need to attend)
 Please be dressed for the weather, we will go rain or shine.
 Dress in layers
 Wear appropriate hiking footwear.
 Please bring water, snacks and any personal medicines you may need.
 Sunscreen, rain gear, day pack.
 Camera and binoculars if you would like.

Directions: From Albany - take Delaware Avenue (443) west through Clarksville. Make a left onto Clarksville S. Road (312).Bear left onto Bennett Hill Road (this is a quick left!) and continue for approximately .5 of a mile. The Preserve entrance is on the right and is marked by a small sign. Drive down the grass road and park in the lot. My car is a gold Forester, if you have trouble finding us call or text me @ 269-1242.