Evans Preserve/Highlands Ridge Loop

You can typically find parking at Highlands Ridge Park, which is part of the larger preserve system. This area was formerly the Bell Labs property, offering convenient access to the trail network.

While the trail is generally welcoming to dogs, it's always best to keep your furry friend on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

The trail offers diverse scenery throughout the year. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant for hiking, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. On a clear day, especially in cooler months, you might even catch a glimpse of the New York skyline from certain points.

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to hike the Evans Preserve/Highlands Ridge Loop. It is municipally owned public parkland, making it freely accessible for recreation.

The terrain is quite varied, featuring a mix of well-worn footpaths, some of which parallel a stream, and mowed paths through open fields. You'll encounter wooded sections, native grasslands, and some gentle hills. Be aware that some areas still show signs of past natural events, like downed trees from Hurricane Sandy.

The diverse habitats of the preserve, including grasslands and wooded areas, support various wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds of prey such as kestrels and sharp-shinned hawks, especially in the open grassland sections.

Yes, the trail has several unique features. You'll pass an old earthen dam that has been breached and a footbridge that was bowed into a curved shape by floodwaters from Hurricane Irene. The route also takes you up Seward's Hill and through a grassland habitat managed by the National Resource Conservation Service.

The hike is generally considered to have 'some hills to climb but nothing terribly difficult,' making it suitable for most hikers, including beginners and families. Its moderate length and varied scenery offer an enjoyable experience without being overly strenuous.

The route incorporates various marked trails, including Red, Blue, and Yellow trails, along with some unmarked gravel or mowed paths through fields. While some sections are unmarked, the overall route is not described as particularly hard to follow.

Yes, as the name suggests, the Evans Preserve/Highlands Ridge Loop is a circular trail, bringing you back to your starting point without needing to retrace your steps.

On a clear day, one of the notable scenic highlights is the possibility of viewing the New York skyline, which is nearly 40 miles to the east, from certain vantage points along the trail.