Scenic Hudson Offers Summer Tours at Popular Parks

(HUDSON VALLEY) - Connect with the Hudson River, hike to a mountaintop or explore a natural area rich in wildlife -- these and more experiences are being offered free by Scenic Hudson during a series of summer hikes. With weekend and weekday evening scheduling, these hikes are a great chance for working adults to unwind and kids on summer vacation to have fun and learn about nature and biology at the same time.

To join a hike, please RSVP online or call 845 473 4440, ext. 210.

Heart of America's Industrial Revolution
" West Point Foundry Preserve, 87 acres along the Hudson, Cold Spring, Putnam County
" Saturday, July 15, and Sunday, July 16, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
" The foundry was a technological and economy-building powerhouse from 1818 to 1884. It produced steam engines, massive pipes for NYC's water system and a cannon that helped win the Civil War. See remains of the foundry, wildlife and a beautiful marsh that was environmentally restored from toxic pollution.
" Less formal tours will be offered every Friday this summer from 3-5 p.m.

Historic Mountaintop
" Mount Beacon/Fishkill Ridge, 1,887 acres, Beacon, Dutchess County
" Monday, July 17, and Monday, July 31, from 4-7 p.m.
" Mount Beacon's 1,500-foot summit was the site of signal fires that General George Washington used to warn of British troop movements. For most of the 19th century the mountain and its impressive incline railway as well as a hotel and restaurant were the valley's most popular day-trip destinations. See remains of the railway, and after a challenging one-mile climb, enjoy stunning panoramic views. Also learn about endangered species that make their home on Mount Beacon.

Creek and Marsh are Biological Treasures
" Madam Brett Park, 13 acres along the Fishkill Creek, Beacon, Dutchess County
" Monday, July 24, and Monday, Aug. 7, from 4-6 p.m.
" Bordering a former hat factory, this park features a rushing waterfall and a tidal marsh filled with natural wonders. Learn how a marsh helps clean the creek's waters before they reach the Hudson River. Birding opportunities are strong. History buffs will enjoy hearing about Catharyna Rombout Brett, Beacon's founder.

Bird and Fish Haven with 3-story Observation Tower
" RamsHorn-Livingston Sanctuary, 480 acres along the Hudson, Catskill, Greene County.
" Monday, Aug. 7, at 6 p.m.
" Think visiting a swamp isn't fun? This property includes the Hudson's largest tidal swamp. Three miles of trails and a 28-foot observation tower offer great opportunities to see birds, waterfowl and wildlife.

Bluffs Rising Powerfully at the River's Shore
" Franny Reese Preserve, 250 acres along the Hudson, Lloyd, Ulster County.
" Wednesday, Aug. 9, at 6 p.m.
" Those crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge have long appreciated the rising bluffs and impressive ridgeline immediately to the south along the river's western shore. Enjoy touring this rugged landscape, which boasts commanding views along trails that were once used for carriages. Learn about Franny Reese, one of Scenic Hudson's founders who greatly shaped work the group did for four decades. Birders also will enjoy visiting this site.