Van Dyke Preserve

One of many Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy "pocket preserves" in Albany's suburbs, the Van Dyke Preserve offers a 1-mile loop through the woods, with much of the trail going alongside the Philippin Kill. The trailhead is found just south of the Bethlehem Central High School off Van Dyke Road. A large gravel lot provides ample parking for several cars.

Note that the trail officially starts close to the entrance to the parking area (a short distance closer to the road than where the large sign showcases trail details). Signage and frequent markers makee the trail easy to follow. You'll walk into the woods on the initial trail for a short distance, until you see arrows marking the start of the loop. You can then go either way around the loop to cover about a mile total once you're back to your car. A lack of additional intersections and a well-worn track make this trail easy to follow.

Several boardwalks and a couple of bridges help walkers traverse spots that are uneven or potentially muddy. Overall, the terrain is relatively easy for walking, although when I was there on a frozen late winter day, ice coverered the trails. A bench early on in the trail offers a spot to relax and watch any wildlife that may appear in the woords.

Since this trail is short, you can easily combine a trek to this preserve with a visit to the nearby Phillipin Kill Preserve or Five Rivers Environmental Education Center. Get outside and enjoy the many wonderful nature trails the Capital Region has to offer!