Hiking cranberry lake preserve - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in cranberry lake preserve: trails, map and practical info

Hudson Valley • New York

4.7 Appreciated by 31 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2013Updated 26/05/2026
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
5 km
Duration
1h15
Max altitude
183 ft
Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore cranberry lake preserve? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

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Trail description

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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
1609 Old Orchard St, West Harrison, NY 10604, USA
GPS coordinates
41.0791591, -73.7557171
Phone
(914) 428-1005

Starting Point

The trails at the cranberry lake preserve can be accessed from the parking lot on Route 3.

The trails at the Cranberry Lake Preserve in Hudson Valley can be accessed from Route 9W.

When?

Opening hours
Monday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMTuesday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMWednesday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMThursday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMFriday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMSaturday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMSunday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
  • Hiking shoes Essential
  • Layered clothing Essential
  • Rain jacket Essential
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
41.0791591, -73.7557171
Center
(914) 428-1005

Hikers' opinions

4.7
10 Reviews
L
Lisa
Jan 18, 2026
Absolutely beautiful preserve that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle. The trails wind around a gorgeous lake with plenty of photo opportunities. The quarry area provides stunning county views after a short scramble. Perfect for a quick nature fix when time is limited. The visitor center has helpful displays about local wildlife and history.
D
David
Dec 3, 2025
Excellent winter hiking destination with well-groomed paths. The preserve offers a great variety of habitats from woodland to marshland. The historical elements, including old stone-cutting sheds and quarry ruins, make it educational as well as scenic. Takes about 1.5 hours to complete the full loop at a leisurely pace. Parking fee applies but facilities are clean.
S
Sarah
Nov 15, 2025
Perfect spot for a peaceful nature walk close to the city. The trails are well-maintained and easy to follow, making it ideal for families. The quarry area is fascinating with its historical significance from the Kensico Dam construction. Only downside is the parking fee, but the experience is worth it. Definitely recommend bringing bug spray during warmer months.
S
Sarah
Nov 12, 2025
A wonderful family-friendly hike through the Hudson Valley with well-maintained trails perfect for beginners. The flat terrain makes it accessible for all fitness levels, and the natural surroundings are peaceful and scenic. Just be aware that parking requires a fee and dogs aren't permitted on the preserve.
R
Robert
Oct 14, 2025
Great family-friendly destination with easy terrain throughout. The preserve showcases diverse ecosystems including vernal pools and mixed hardwood forest. Wildlife viewing opportunities are excellent - we spotted turtles and various bird species. The only drawback is that some trail sections can get muddy after rain. Overall, a wonderful place for nature education and relaxation.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
183.00
Monday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMTuesday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMWednesday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMThursday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMFriday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMSaturday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PMSunday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
1h15
No
No
Yes, Cranberry Lake Preserve is rated as Easy difficulty, making it an excellent choice for beginners and families. The 5 km trail with no elevation gain (0 m) can be completed in approximately 1h15, allowing visitors of all fitness levels to enjoy the preserve comfortably.
The trail at Cranberry Lake Preserve takes approximately 1h15 to complete. The 5 km distance with no elevation change makes it a manageable outing for most visitors.
No, dogs are not permitted on the trails at Cranberry Lake Preserve. Please leave your pets at home or arrange alternative care before your visit.
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Update : June 2026