Hike the Marshlands Conservancy Loop

Located along the Long Island Sound, this 147-acre conservancy is home to a plethora of different birds, including marsh wrens, seaside sparrows, and American woodcocks. The conservancy has 3 miles of trails, all easy to navigate.

Starting out from the visitor's center, take the trail to the right to reach the meadow. After crossing a small bridge, you will turn left, and pass by a Greek Revival mansion, the childhood home of the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, John Jay. The mansion's grand columns are hard to miss and it's the only house spotted on the property. 

At the far end of the meadow, to the left, a side trail leads to the marshlands and osprey nest platform. After doing some birding in these areas, head back to the meadow and turn left, downhill, crossing through the salt marshes onto Marie's Neck. Take a right at the fork and follow this short loop, which will give you views of the Long Island Sound. You can and should walk along the beach and admire the sight of the calm, blue waters. In the distance, you might spot a cluster of sailboats depending on the day's conditions. Wear appropriate shoes for some muddy areas. 

Back at the meadow, take the first right into the forest, then turn left at the second junction to return to the visitor's center. Though there is a decently sized parking lot, it can become quite overcrowded on the weekends. For the most solitude, visit on a weekday. 

The trails are easy, making it a great spot for family members of all ages. Pets, however, are not allowed. The marshland reeds are quite beautiful to walk through and it's the perfect spot if you live in Westchester and need a little time by the ocean, but don't want to travel great lengths.