Roy H Park Preserve - South Trail 996 Irish Settlement Road, Freeville, NY 13068

Welcome to Roy H. Park Preserve - South Trail

Nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, the Roy H. Park Preserve offers an enchanting escape into nature's embrace. Located at 996 Irish Settlement Road in Freeville, New York, this breathtaking 241-acre preserve is a mere drive from Ithaca and serves as a vital connector within a sprawling network of over 8,000 acres of protected lands. It is part of the "Emerald Necklace," an ambitious initiative by the Finger Lakes Land Trust to interlink 50,000 acres of public open spaces around Ithaca.

Explore Diverse Landscapes

The preserve is a mosaic of natural beauty, featuring lush forests, rolling meadows, serene wetlands, and the rugged terrain of Six Mile Creek—a crucial water source for Ithaca and the Cayuga Lake watershed. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll on the Baldwin Tract's meandering trail, accessible from the south parking area. This path winds through a meadow encircling a picturesque evergreen plantation, leading to a mature forest, a hemlock-studded gorge, and captivating waterfalls along the creek.

Wildlife and Birdwatching Haven

Roy H. Park Preserve is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. The diverse habitats, including open wetlands, mixed hardwood forests, and vernal pools, provide a refuge for a variety of species. Listen for the calls of spotted salamanders, wood frogs, and the vibrant songs of breeding birds like the Winter Wren and Hermit Thrush. The preserve is also home to a heron rookery and an expansive beaver pond, offering ample opportunities for wildlife observation.

Recreational Access and Connectivity

A universally accessible boardwalk at the north parking area invites visitors to explore the wetlands and connects to over 20 miles of multi-use trails at Hammond Hill State Forest. While hunting is prohibited within the preserve, it is permitted in the adjacent state forest areas.

A Legacy of Conservation

The creation of Roy H. Park Preserve was made possible through the generosity of donors and conservation advocates, including a significant contribution from the daughter of Roy H. Park. The preserve's establishment honors Park's legacy of commitment to education, public broadcasting, and environmental stewardship.

Visitor Information

- Pet Policy: All dogs must be on a leash and under control at all times.

- Directions: From Ithaca, take Rt. 13 North towards Dryden. Turn right on Irish Settlement Rd and follow the signs to the north and south parking areas.

- Interactive Map: Explore more outdoor adventures in the region with the Go Finger Lakes website, featuring over 50 destinations for hiking, biking, paddling, and skiing.

Preserving Cultural Heritage

We acknowledge that our preserves exist on the ancestral lands of the Haudenosaunee people. The Finger Lakes Land Trust is committed to honoring their enduring relationship with these lands by conserving these wild places for generations to come.

For more information on public use policies, recreational activities, and nature conservation in the Finger Lakes, please visit our website. Join us in protecting these cherished landscapes and enjoy a serene escape at Roy H. Park Preserve.