If you are looking for a place to enjoy nature and see some amazing wildlife, you might want to visit the Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge in Ulster County, New York. This refuge is one of the top 10 areas in the state for grassland-dependent migratory birds, and it offers stunning views of the Shawangunk Ridge. Here are some tips and highlights for planning your trip to this beautiful and diverse habitat.
What to Expect
The refuge covers 597 acres of former military airport, which was transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1999. The grasslands provide nesting, wintering and stopover habitat for many species of birds, including endangered, threatened and special concern ones. Some of the birds you might see are:
- Short-eared Owl
- Northern Harrier
- Upland Sandpiper
- Henslowā€™s Sparrow
- Grasshopper Sparrow
- Vesper Sparrow
- Horned Lark
- Bobolink
You might also spot other wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, spotted turtles, butterflies and dragonflies.
The refuge is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and there is no entrance fee. There are two kiosks at the main entrance that provide general information and orientation. There are also five wildlife observation/photography blinds along the trails that you can use to get a closer look at the animals.
The refuge has 3.6 miles of trails that are unimproved and of minimal difficulty. However, they may be seasonally wet, so wear appropriate footwear. The trails are also open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.
There is a public restroom at the refuge, but no potable water sources. Please bring your own water and snacks, and remember to pack out what you pack in. Pets are not allowed on the refuge, and neither are bikes or motorized vehicles. Please respect the wildlife and stay on the maintained trails.
How to Get There
The refuge is located on Hoagerburgh Road in Wallkill, NY, about 75 miles north of New York City. You can get there by car or by public transportation.
By car: From I-87, take exit 17 for NY-17K toward Newburgh/Montgomery. Turn left onto NY-17K E/Breunig Rd. Turn right onto NY-208 N. Turn left onto NY-52 E/State Rte 52 E. Turn right onto Hoagerburgh Rd. The refuge entrance will be on your left.
By public transportation: From New York City, take Metro-North Railroadā€™s Hudson Line to Beacon Station. From there, take the Leprechaun Lines bus #1 to Newburgh Bus Terminal. From there, take the Ulster County Area Transit bus #50 to Wallkill Hannaford Plaza. From there, walk or bike about 2 miles to the refuge entrance on Hoagerburgh Rd.
For more information, visit the refuge website.
Why Visit
The Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge is a unique and valuable place for conservation and recreation. It is one of the few sites in New York that can support the entire assemblage of northeastern grassland birds, many of which are declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation. By visiting the refuge, you can help raise awareness and appreciation for these birds and their habitat.
The refuge is also a great place to enjoy nature and relax. You can admire the scenic views of the Shawangunk Ridge, listen to the songs of the birds, watch the sun set over the grasslands, or gaze at the stars at night. You can also learn more about the history of the site, which was once a military airport used during World War II and the Cold War.
Whether you are a birdwatcher, a hiker, a photographer, or just a nature lover, you will find something to enjoy at the Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge. It is a hidden gem in Ulster County that deserves your visit.