Albany Pine Bush Preserve
The Albany Pine Bush Preserve (often referred as Pine Bush), is a 3,200-acre (1,290 ha) inland pine barren ecosystem, located midway between the cities of Albany and Schenectady. The inland pine barren was formed thousands of years ago from the drainage of Glacial Lake Albany that existed between 13,000 and 15,000 years ago. It is one of the largest in the world and the last remaining portion of an inland pine barren that once covered an area of 26,000 acres (10,000 ha).
Albany Pine Bush Preserve by UpstateNYer Pine Bush is situated on high grounds ranging from 260 feet (79 meters) to 360 feet (110 meters) above sea level. The preserve not only includes pine barren but also areas of grasslands, forests, ravines, and wetlands. Other vegetation found, besides pitch pine, includes tall shrubs (such as bear oak and dwarf chestnut oak) and low shrubs (such as black huckleberry and sweet fern). Pine Bush is also home to various species of small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, moths, and the rare Karner Blue butterfly.
Within the preserve is the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, located near the intersection of Old State Road and New Karner Road. The Discovery Center is centrally located in Pine Bush and housed in a former State Employees Federal Credit Union (SEFCU) branch building. Here visitors will find interesting exhibits explaining about Pine Bush. From the back door of the Discovery Center, there are several trails through the preserve ranging from the easy to moderate.
Location: 195 New Karner Road Suite 1, Albany, NY 12203
Website: Albany Pine Bush
Tel: 518-456-0655
English