How does one beat 94 degree weather during summer in New York state? Going for a nice walk under a canopy of trees along a fast-flowing creek works really well! That’s what we did when we recently visited the Wolf Creek Falls Preserve in Knox, New York.
Wolf Creek Falls Preserve
This is a relatively new preserve, having just opened in 2007 as part of the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy. Previously, it was privately owned by Stephen and Patricia Brown, local professors. This parcel of land was gifted to the state of New York after the death of Mrs. Brown.
We’re big fans of the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy. They provide public access to beautiful pieces of land that really let you get close to nature. Other places we visited include Normans Kill Preserve West and Keleher Preserve.
Hiking
This nature preserve offers several different hiking trails to choose from. These trails were originally created by the Browns. Each trail is labeled after a different color (white, green, blue, gold, green, red). The trails intersect and intertwine with each other both north and south of Bozenkill Road.
The Sights at Wolf Creek Falls Preserve
There is plenty to see along this network of trails. Obviously, the highlight of the hiking here centers around Wolf Creek itself, and the many falls located within the creek. Generally, the trails that pass over the Creek rely on large flat stones to get you across. However, there is one lovely bridge that crosses Wolf Creek which offers a nice, relaxing place to stop and take in the view.
There are several stretches of old stone walls that can be seen along the trail running roughly north-south on either side of Bonzekill Road. These stone walls date back to the 1800s and were originally used to contain sheep.
North of Bonzekill Road, there is a little picnic area at the intersection of several trails. Here you can find a bird box, which was vacant during our visit except for a birds nest, and several picnic benches (one adult-size and one child-sized).
Where is it located?
Wolf Creek Falls Preserve is located off of Bozenkill Road in the town of Knox, New York, not far from Altamont. The parking are for the preserve is on the south side of Bonzekill Road.
Map
A map for the trail can be found here at the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy page.