August 17 and 18, 2024.

This unique inland pine barrens is located adjacent to I-90 within Albany. 3400 acres are accessible to the public with 20-miles of loop and out-and-back trails. I was able to hike all the trails over two days for a total 26+ miles since I had to double back a few times. I did them all carrying a fully loaded thru-hiking backpack since I am training for the Ice Age Trail.

The preserve is akin to coastal pine barrens found on Cape Cod and Long Island. While walking the well-maintained trails, one can forget that one is actually far inland, next to a major interstate highway, and within New York’s capital city.

From the Albany Pine Bush Preserve’s website:
“It was formed at the end of the last ice age—20,000 years ago. As a mile high glacier melted, a giant lake formed here. Scientists refer to this lake as Glacial Lake Albany.

Glacial Lake Albany eventually drained and the sandy deposits on the lake floor (laid down by the ancient Mohawk River) were blown into sand dunes which were ultimately colonized by plants.

The Pine Bush once covered over 25,000 acres. Now there are only 6,000 acres remaining; 3,400 of which are protected by the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission.”

The ecosystem supports a large variety of species including the endangered Karner blue butterfly.

After each hike I’d have sand in my shoes, like I had been walking along the beach.

There’s a Discovery Center, but after each hike I was soaking wet from rain and sweat so I did not go inside. I may visit it later this week.