We like to check out a variety of local hikes, and I have been wanting to check out Limestone Rise Preserve for a while now because of its unique rock formations.

You can download a trail map here.

From nature.org:

Route 146, which bisects the preserve, is thought to be the old “Palantine Road,” built by Palatine Germans in the early eighteenth century to connect their settlements in the Schoharie Valley with Albany. The area north of Route 146 was abandoned as pasture land more than 50 years ago. The southern area of the preserve was probably never farmed but only used for logging.

A 1.3-mile trail is blazed orange and has a few short but steep climbs.

This preserve is easy to find, and the trails are only about a mile, so it makes for a leisurely trip.

There were several signs for the preserve, and we parked along the road without any issues.  There is no trailhead kiosk or pull off area for parking, but the road is wide enough that I was comfortable parking.

We took the orange trail (currently the only trail there), which was easy to follow.

There is a small marshy area between the trail and the road, where we saw some ducks and a beaver dam.

After taking the first part of the trail, we crossed Route 146.  While there was not much traffic, the cars on this road seemed to be going very fast, so be careful especially with younger kids.  And while there were only a few muddy spots in mid-March, the muddiest part was right before crossing the road.

The Nature.org preserve website notes that,

After you cross the road and enter the southern section, use special care to avoid stepping into deep crevices and holes in the limestone, especially in winter or after the leaves have fallen, when the crevices may be hidden. Allow about one hour to complete the circuit. (website)

There are lots of crevices, from spots where you can walk down in, to small holes.

Watch your step so that you don’t get caught up on a gap, especially if it has leaves or snow on it.

Overall, a short, easy hike with some interesting rock formations.  Good for kids, just be careful crossing Route 146.

Be sure to check for ticks afterwards – we did find several on us like this deer tick I found on my leg.

Check out the other local hikes in the area we have visited:

Albany Pine Bush, NY
Bozenkill Preserve, Altamont, NY (review coming soon)
Christman Sanctuary, Duanesburg, NY 
Hannacroix Ravine Preserve, Voorheesville, NY 
Hyuck Preserve, Rensselaerville, NY
Indian Kill Preserve, Schenectady, NY 
Landis Arboretum, Esperance, NY 
Moccasin Kill Sanctuary, Schenectady, NY 
Thacher Park Indian Ladder Trail, Voorheesville, NY 
Vosburgh Trails, Guilderland, NY
Wolf Creek Falls Preserve, Altamont/Knox, NY 
Woodlawn Nature Preserve, Schenectady, NY