Just south of the Walkway Over the Hudson lies Franny Reese State Park, a 251-acre sanctuary brimming with history, scenic trails, and breathtaking river views. Named after local conservation hero Franny Reese, this park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Whether you’re an avid hiker, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Franny Reese State Park has something to offer. Explore the remnants of the opulent Cedar Glen estate, marvel at the panoramic views of the Mid-Hudson Bridge, and discover the legacy of a woman who dedicated her life to preserving the Hudson Valley’s natural treasures.
Journey through time as you hike the trails of Franny Reese State Park. These paths, once carriage roads winding through the 19th-century Cedar Glen estate, whisper tales of a bygone era. Remnants of the estate, including weathered stone walls and foundations, intertwine with the park’s natural beauty, creating a truly unique hiking experience. Imagine horse-drawn carriages gliding along these very paths, offering glimpses of the opulent estate.
Breathtaking Hudson Valley Views
Prepare to be captivated by the stunning vistas that unfold from Franny Reese State Park. Sweeping views of the majestic Hudson River, the iconic Mid-Hudson Bridge, and the charming city of Poughkeepsie create a picturesque panorama. A newly constructed overlook, opened in 2009, offers an even more dramatic perspective. Don’t forget your camera to capture these breathtaking moments.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There & Parking
Located in Lloyd, New York (Ulster County), near Poughkeepsie, the park’s official address is 286 Haviland Rd, Highland, NY 12528. Parking can be limited, especially on weekends, so carpooling or arriving early is recommended.
Trails & Activities
Franny Reese State Park boasts 2.5 miles of trails perfect for hiking and biking. These trails cater to various fitness levels. During the winter months, the trails transform into a winter wonderland, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
What to See & Do
Explore the remnants of the historic Cedar Glen estate, imagining the lives of those who once resided there. Take advantage of the multiple viewpoints throughout the park, each offering a unique perspective on the Hudson River. Consider visiting the nearby Walkway Over the Hudson for even more spectacular views.
Tips for Visitors
Check the park’s website for updates before your visit. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and wear comfortable footwear. Remember your camera to capture the stunning scenery!
This park’s history is a captivating blend of opulence, decline, and rebirth. In the mid-1800s, Charles H. Roberts, a pioneer of painless dentistry, built the lavish Cedar Glen estate. Following his death, probable inheritance disputes led to the estate’s decline, leaving nature to reclaim the land. Decades later, Frances “Franny” Reese, a champion of environmental preservation, spearheaded the fight against a proposed power plant on Storm King Mountain in 1963. This victory established a crucial legal precedent for citizen involvement in environmental decisions and solidified Reese’s reputation as the “mother of the modern environmental movement.” In 2003, Scenic Hudson, co-founded by Reese, acquired the abandoned Cedar Glen estate. With a partnership between Scenic Hudson and New York State, Franny Reese State Park opened to the public in 2009, preserving the land and honoring Reese’s legacy. The park is part of the Palisades Interstate Park System and is managed in conjunction with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Exploring Today
Today, visitors can explore the remnants of Cedar Glen, hike along former carriage roads, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Hudson River. The park offers a unique blend of history, nature, and human endeavor, reminding us of the importance of preserving our natural heritage.
New York’s State Park Giants
Allegany vs. Adirondack: Unraveling the Size Debate
New York State boasts an array of parks, but which one claims the title of “largest”? The answer often depends on how “park” is defined. Allegany State Park, a sprawling 65,000-acre wilderness near Salamanca on the Pennsylvania border, is the largest designated state park. However, the Adirondack and Catskill Parks, classified as “Forever Wild” Forest Preserves, significantly surpass Allegany in size. The Adirondack Park covers over six million acres, while the Catskill Park boasts around 700,000 acres. This distinction stems from their “Forever Wild” status under Article 14 of the New York Constitution and their management by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), unlike other state parks managed by the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP).
Honoring a Legacy: Franny Reese
While Allegany is vast, Franny Reese State Park, though smaller at 251 acres, holds immense significance. Named after Frances “Franny” Reese, a key figure in the 1963 fight against a power plant on Storm King Mountain – a turning point in environmental activism – this park commemorates her legacy and provides a space for visitors to connect with nature and history.
Feature
Allegany State Park
Adirondack Park
Catskill Park
Franny Reese State Park
Size (Acres)
65,000
6,000,000+
700,000
251
Designation
State Park
Forever Wild Forest Preserve
Forever Wild Forest Preserve
State Park
Managing Agency
OPRHP
DEC
DEC
OPRHP
Key Features
Old-growth forests, wetlands, meadows
Mountains, lakes, rivers
Mountains, forests, rivers
Hudson River views, historic estate, trails
Discover more about Craftworks Restaurants & Breweries Inc and their unique offerings, or explore the historical significance of Fort Foster Kittery Maine. While our understanding of New York’s park system continues to evolve, these natural treasures offer diverse experiences waiting to be explored.
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