The Neversink River Unique Area

A shaded forest path full of pine trees and beautiful mountain laurels leads the way down to the water at the Neversink River Unique Area in Sullivan County. This state area is a beautiful place to hike and fish, only a few hours from New York City in the town of Thompson. Its 4881 acres consist of varied forest habitat along the Neversink river, including jungle like sections of mountain laurel that have beautiful blooms in the late spring, tall pine forests, and birch trees dotting the riverside.

 
The river is a popular destination for fly fishermen. Fairly wide and swift, the best spot is to wade out in the middle, but there are also plenty of spots to fish from the shore. Wander down the mossy banks and you’ll come across huge, impressive rock formations, as well as old mossy rock walls formed long ago. The sunny banks are full of butterflies, and a wide array of songbirds call through the trees.

The easiest access point is the small parking area at the end of Katrina Falls Road. There is a bit of a hike to get down to the river, along a rocky downhill path. There are several connecting trails that are marked through the woods, with plenty of areas to explore. The Mullet Brook trail will bring you to a beautiful waterfall. There is no camping allowed, so don’t expect to stay overnight. The fishing is catch and release only, and they want you to use only artificial lures.

The Neversink Area is a small hidden treasure near the Catskills. Its location and many acres ensure that it’s never too crowded. If you are looking for a peaceful forest hike, or some excellent trout fishing, this is the perfect spot!

For more information, visit: http://www.trailkeeper.org/trail/neversink-unique-area/ 

Arwen - Arwen Designs

Let's Visit: The Basha Kill Wildlife Management Area

We love living in the Hudson Valley! In addition to sharing the goings-on with the group, we'd like to also share some of our favorite places to visit in the area for fun, inspiration, and exploring.  Today we start with Arwen from Arwen Designs with a visit to The Basha Kill Wildlife Management Area.

Sullivan County is home to thousands of acres of beautiful woodlands, parks, and nature preserves. Only a few hours from New York City, it is a great place to get away for a weekend and discover what nature has to offer.

The Basha Kill Wildlife Management Area is nestled between the Shawagunk and Catskill Mountains, and consists of over 3000 acres of wetlands. It is a natural wetlands, restored in the 1970’s by the DEC. It offers a wide range of scenery and activities. You can park on Haven Rd for an amazing view of the wide expanse of water surrounded by mountain ranges, or you can hike down one of the many trails through lush forests and waterside promenades full of wildflowers. Bring a canoe or kayak to explore places only accessible by water. The Catskill region is known for excellent trout fishing, but there are also over 30 species of fish in the water, and acres of shoreline to fish from, although the best spots are in a boat.

The Basha Kill is a haven for bird watchers, and there are small tours available. Over 220 species of birds have been sighted, including the great blue heron, eagles, ducks, hawks, and numerous songbirds. The area is also home to at least 200 species of native wildflowers.

 

One of the best things about the Basha Kill is that it is never too crowded. It is one of the lesser known wildlife areas, and combined with the vast area to explore, you can often hike an entire trail only meeting one or two people.

If quiet nature trips are something you enjoy, consider a visit to the Basha Kill region of New York State!
For more information, visit: www.thebashakill.org

Arwen / Arwen Designs