Lenoir Preserve

A Hillside Haven with River Views

Perched on a slope overlooking the Hudson River in Yonkers, Lenoir Preserve feels like a secret escape from city life. This 40-acre woodland sits right next to the Old Croton Aqueduct, with excellent views of the Hudson and the dramatic Palisades on the opposite shore.

A Glimpse into the Gilded Age

Walking through the preserve, you'll notice the stately Lenoir Mansion standing proudly atop a hill overlooking the meadow. Built between 1850 and 1870 for Samuel J. Tilden (who later ran for president), this architectural structure is one of two original Hudson River estates that once occupied these grounds. While you can't go inside the mansion, it makes for a pretty impressive backdrop during your nature walk.

Trees from Around the World

Plant lovers will appreciate the preserve's impressive collection of trees. It's like a global arboretum, featuring magnificent copper beeches from Europe standing alongside gingko trees from Asia and towering Douglas firs from the Pacific Northwest. These international transplants mingle with native sugar maples, red oaks, hemlocks, and soaring tulip trees, creating natural shelters for woodpeckers, owls, and bats.

A Bird Watcher's Paradise

If you're into birding, Lenoir is a good spot, especially during spring and fall migrations when hawks soar overhead in impressive numbers. Grab a bench (placed throughout the preserve) and keep your eyes on the skies. You might even catch official raptor counting sessions in progress, where you can learn to identify different species by their unique flight patterns and silhouettes.

Trails and Nature Center

The preserve offers about 2 miles of trails, a mix of natural paths and paved walkways that are well-maintained and easy to navigate. For those interested in learning more about local ecology, the Nature Center housed in a historic carriage house features educational exhibits about local wildlife. They also run seasonal programs covering everything from beekeeping to local ecology. And yes, there's a connection to the longer Old Croton Aqueduct trail if you're looking to extend your adventure.

Lesser-Known Parks

Make sure to visit the Butterfly Garden, especially during warmer months when it becomes a fluttering canvas of color. It's a peaceful spot to observe these delicate pollinators up close. If you happen to visit in late winter, you might catch one of their Maple Syrup Demonstrations, where you can learn about the fascinating process of tapping trees and turning sap into sweet syrup.

Good to Know

Lenoir Preserve is free to visit and has plenty of parking available. There are portable toilets near the parking area for when nature calls. The preserve welcomes four-legged friends too - just keep them leashed and use the waste stations provided at the entrance. Pack a lunch if you like; several picnic tables scattered across the grounds offer the perfect spot to refuel while surrounded by nature.