Butterflies and oak leaves flutter while hikers oooh and ahhh at unparalleled vistas.

by Contributor

The Scene
The Albany Pine Bush is a set of undeveloped areas between Albany and Schenectady. Once contiguous, the Pine Bush has been divided by roads and other developments, but there still are areas that provide miles of good hiking.

The Experience
The sandy soil of the Pine Bush supports vegetation dominated by scrub oak and pitch pine. It is also home to the rare Karner blue butterfly, which is something of a celebrity among local nature lovers. For a somewhat strenuous hike through diverse habitats, the East Hungerkill-Great Dune area at the end of Washington Avenue Extension is best. The Karner Dune Field, to the north of the New York State Thruway, offers good views from the tops of the larger dunes. Unfortunately, it's near a landfill that can get smelly in the summer months.

10/16/04

Albany Pine Bush Trail Signs

by yijungwu

It is a great place for taking a walk. However, the trail signs are kind confusing and you are not able to find out how far you still have left for the trail. Sometimes you feel that you are in a maze. So plan plenty time for your walk so that you can get out of there before the sky gets dark.

• Pros: Convenient location

03/07/03

An Excellent Family Outing!

by blairwitch39

It's true, there are no tiolet facilities, so go before you come, then come and explore the gorgeous Albany Pine Bush! A maze of bright sandy trails weave through the pines. Log in your party at the entrance and grab the free map before you enter. Next time we go I'm taking my compass! The reserve is a narrow strip so getting permanently lost is difficult, but temporarily losing your way is one of the fun parts! Beatiful undisturbed vistas just minutes away from the state capitol. The few hills encountered are gentle slopes.

• Pros: Ample parking