Fuller Mountain Preserve

Warwick (Orange County)

Why we love it

The Orange County Land Trust, which protected and maintains this 255-acre preserve, calls it “one of Orange County’s best kept secrets.” Actually, it belongs on any short list of the Hudson Valley’s “hidden” gems, well worth a drive to explore its myriad rock formations and, especially, to enjoy the 180-degree view at the Orange Trail’s apex. This vista encompasses the distant Catskills, Shawangunks and Hudson Highlands, with farm fields and a few outlier summits in the foreground. It takes a moderate uphill walk of less than a mile to reach this scenic nirvana, making it a great pre- or post-lunch outing for all ages.

More to explore

Warwick’s quaint, stroll-able Main Street features a bounty of restaurants and interesting shops. Masker Orchards grows a dozen varieties of u-pick apples, while Pennings Farm Market features its own fruits and veggies as well as produce from other local farms. And for an increasingly rare opportunity to catch a movie on the BIG screen under the stars, head to the Warwick Drive-In.

Highlights

• More than 2 miles of trails
• Superb scenery along trails — extraordinary view

Directions, hours, etc.: https://www.oclt.org/our-preserves/fuller-mountain/