Upstate New York is a completely different world from downstate, otherwise known as the space of cities and towns between Long Island and the Lower Hudson Valley (although it's highly debated). With that being said, it's not always necessary to drive all the way Upstate to find some tranquility from those living or vacationing in New York City. In fact, a peaceful quiet trail may only be a short day trip away from the city - such as this one.

Located not far from White Plains in Westchester Country is a nature preserve that offers just that. With short, manageable hiking trails and beautiful scenery, it's anyone's guess as to why it's not one of the top summer spots for hikers from New York City.

The Short Day Trip To Cranberry Lake Preserve & Quarry

Located in West Harrison, New York, Cranberry Lake once served a crucial part in the construction of the Kenisco Dam. The dam itself was completed in 1917 and is located not far from the preserve, and much of the stones and materials used to build it can also be found throughout the park. Not only is Cranberry Lake a preserve teeming with wildlife and scenic Westchester views, but it's also one that's historically central to the area, as well. Those who wish to learn more about the history of the lake and its quarry usage can also follow the Cranberry Lake History Trail, which leads hikers to the remains of a 19th-century farmhouse, as well as a 20th-century mining operation.

On weekends, the Cranberry Lake Preserve Nature Centers also offer interactive nature programs, as well as live animal demonstrations.

Getting To Cranberry Lake Preserve

Those traveling by car from New York City or Long Island can follow the Sprain-Brook Parkway before changing course to go east to White Plains and West Harrison. Another option is to take the Hutchinson River Parkway to the east side of West Harrison, before heading northwest to get to Cranberry Lake.

Those taking the train from New York City will need to leave from Grand Central and take the train from Harlem (125th Street) to White Plains. From there, they'll need to catch the bus from White Plains to Port Chester before getting off at Westchester Ave. & S. Kenisco - from there, the walk is roughly 20 minutes, or one can take an Uber or taxi. Obviously, the trip is much easier if one is driving or renting a car!

Related: Why The Thousand Islands Is A Surprisingly Underrated Destination In Upstate New York

Hiking The Trails In Cranberry Lake Preserve

The Cranberry Lake Preserve spans 190 acres throughout Westchester. The land was purchased and protected in 1967 and has remained very much the same way since, with the addition of some hiking trails. It's a great, easy park for novice hikers and experienced hikers alike who have an appreciation for wildlife, and it's not a park that's easy to get lost in.

Those visiting for the flora and fauna will be happy to know that the preserve is a safe haven for:

  • Migratory birds
  • Turtles
  • Various species of dragonfly
  • Mixed hardwood forest
  • Vernal Pools
  • Swampland

All of these can be seen by simply walking around the four-acre lake and short cliffs that create such a diverse and interesting landscape.

*Note: Biking, fishing, and dogs are prohibited in order to protect the park's fragile ecosystem.

The History Trail

Cranberry Lake's History Trail is an easy loop that goes all the way around the lake as well as to the upper-level forested areas. It's a great way to see the park as a whole without veering off other trails, and it's the perfect option for history buffs who wish to learn more about the area. This trail would work perfectly in tandem with those who also plan on stopping by the Kenisco Dam to explore the second half of Cranberry Lake's history in West Harrison.

The artifacts left from the 19th and 20th centuries speak to the 1,500 workers who helped to construct the Kenisco Dam. This area once had 17 miles of railroad tracks to its name and not much else until the dam, which helped to expand the town and provide electricity for future generations to come. Along the way, hikers will see:

  • Cranberry Lake. Formed by glaciers more than 18,000 years ago, it's considered to be an 'ancient' natural lake that's fed by an underground spring. And yes, cranberries do grow here!
  • Stone Cutting Shed. The remains of the building and machinery used to cut stones for the dam, which can be found on 'stump walkway.'
  • Quarry Territory. When the trail becomes rocky with cliffs rising in the distance, hikers have found their way into quarry territory - this is now home to a diverse number of animal species, thanks to low organic, high mineral soil content. Some of the rocks in this area may still bear dynamite scars.
  • Abandoned Cars. Deeper into the trail, hikers might notice cars that have been abandoned from a different decade. In late May, flowers called Pink Lady Slippers are in full bloom here, making for quite a sight.
  • Quarry. In 1913, the first blast was made in the quarry, which resulted in 179 million pounds of stone over the course of one year. Today, the quarry and its waterway are the places to observe turtles and dragonflies.

Additional things hikers will see on this historic trail include:

  • Quarry ponds
  • Derrick anchors from mining
  • The foundation for the crusher used to build the dam
  • Trestle remains (ten, to be exact)
  • Dynamite magazine (located ~25 feet behind the stone wall across from the Bent Bridge)
  • Stone farmer's walls
  • Bedrock near Kenisco Reservoir
  • Kenisco Reservoir-Watershed

Those looking for a day trip from New York City or Long Island will be pleasantly surprised by this short, easy hiking trip. It's full of surprises, history, and scenery that one might not expect from such a small, lesser-known corner of Westchester. Just be sure to bring a camera!

Next: Saratoga Springs Combines History & Culture In Upstate NY