Esopus Bend Loop

This full route through Esopus Bend Nature Preserve begins at the Sterley Avenue trailhead and heads north on the South Trail, closely following Esopus Creek. After a short distance, stay left onto the Schroeder Trail and continue until it connects with the Wetlands Trail. From here, follow the boardwalks and raised paths through marshy terrain to reach the Meadow Paths, which wind through open fields and offer views of seasonal wildflowers and grassland wildlife. Loop back to the Wetlands Trail, then turn left onto the East Trail to loop around through mature forest and back to theSchroeder Trail via Wetlands Trail. The route can be easily shortened by cutting out the Meadow Paths segment or retracing from the Wetlands Trail. Markers are clear throughout, and the mix of habitats makes this one of the best nature walks near Saugerties for wildlife viewing and varied scenery.