These beautiful trails are closer than you think!  Each one is near where people live, work, go to school, and shop. Enjoy them as part of everyday life. They are also a great added attraction for visitors. We challenge you to check out all of them this Fall/Winter.

Combine a Walk with a Bite to Eat & Local Shopping

Parksville Rail Trail, Parksville

Just off Rt. 17, this 1.3-mile stretch of O&W Rail Trail leads you close to a beautiful section of the Little Beaverkill. The quiet stream opens up to a sequence of waterfalls that vary in size with the rainfall. Several welcoming benches and picnic tables invite visitors to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of this intimate river valley. What a treasure right off the highway. Parking area on Main Street, at intersection with Short Ave. Nearby eateries include Cabernet Frank’s and Parksville Pizza (tucked inside the Mobil station).

Walnut Mountain, Liberty

This town park has many miles of trails so it is easy to find a route that fits your abilities. The old carriage roads are wide, well signed and lead to two overlook spots with views. Mountain Overlook trails is a favorite. There are also miles of single track trails traversing the woods and fields, enjoyed by mountain bikers and hikers (snowshoeing in winter). Two kiosks show a large trail map. Take a photo of it or download one. Parking area at end of Walnut Mountain Road, Liberty.  Take Rt. 55 to North Main Street for many spots to eat and shop.

Mountaindale Rail Trail, Mountaindale 

Tucked away yet in the middle of town, this 2.1-mile section of O&W Rail Trail is a delightful getaway for walking, running, and biking. Cinder Track Bicycles has rentals on fall weekends. The wooded trail begins at far end of parking area on Railroad Avenue with Sandburg Creek meandering alongside. Benches to rest and beautiful gardens along the way. Good birding along peaceful Silver Lake. A small uphill grade heading out offers a noticeable glide on the way back if you’re on a bike or cross-country skis. Park next to the Visitors Center on Railroad Avenue, which is modeled after an O&W station. Nearby eateries include Ba & Me (winter weekends) on Main Street.

Winter Note: All of these trails are great for snowshoeing once there’s a snow base. The three below are also wonderful for cross-country skiing or pulling a small child on a sled. It’s super neighborly if walkers stay on one side of the trail and leave the other for cross-country skiers.

– Written by Lisa Lyons, Morgan Outdoors