Butler-Huntington Woods Loop

The Butler-Huntington Woods Trail begins at a small parking area off Fifty Acre Road near St. James, New York. This short route winds through a quiet forest preserve managed by The Nature Conservancy, showcasing the rolling terrain of the Harbor Hill Moraine — a glacial formation of hills and swales left from the last Ice Age. Starting from the trailhead, the route climbs gently onto a forested ridge, then loops through a mix of oak, beech, and hickory trees. Watch for forks and unsigned side trails — stay on the main tread to complete the route. Along the way, hikers pass through shady stands of mountain laurel and may spot white-tailed deer, songbirds, and small mammals. Some sections may be narrow or overgrown depending on the season, and leaf-covered slopes can be slick after rain. Limited parking and seasonal overgrowth mean early arrival is recommended. This is a great choice for a quick, low-effort walk that still offers a peaceful woodland escape with glimpses of Long Island’s glacial past.