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Constitution Marsh
Audubon Center and Sanctuary
One of the more serene and unique areas to visit in
Philipstown is the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary,
located off of Indian Brook Road, just south of Cold Spring via Route 9D.
A five-minute walk from the parking area, a short but
steep woodlands trail begins at the nature center building, and ends at the sanctuary’s
700-foot long boardwalk through one of the few remaining Hudson River
tidal marshes.
The boardwalk, which is dedicated to the late Jim
Rod, a former Director, loops through a large section of the marsh.
It was completely rebuilt and expanded in 2000.
The boardwalk’s unique design affords the experience of virtually
walking on water through the marsh, offering incredible Hudson River
vistas, as well as close-up views of plants and wildlife.
Visitors can relax on the boardwalk’s wooden benches, hearing
only the sounds of birds, the Hudson River, and the occasional whistle of
a distant train.
During the warmer months, visitors can take part in
guided canoe trips through the marsh.
This must be arranged with the center in advance, and only a
limited number of visitors can be accommodated.
The Constitution Marsh
nature center will soon become a year-round facility, once again offering live
exhibits and interpretive displays related to the sanctuary’s various
habitats. Education programs
for schools and other public groups are available on and off-site.
The sanctuary can only accommodate eight visitors’
vehicles at any one time, says Assistant Director Richard Anderson.
He advises those encountering a ‘Full’ sign at the parking area
to return later, as visitors generally do not spend more than a few hours
touring the sanctuary. Parking
elsewhere on Indian Brook Road is strictly prohibited.
Those planning a visit to Constitution Marsh should
be aware that the walking trail to the river boardwalk is extremely rocky
and steep in some sections. Mr.
Anderson says that there are plans to accommodate handicapped visitors in
the near future by ferrying them to a dock area on the walkway, but at
present, one should expect a vigorous short hike – wear comfortable
shoes, and of course bring a camera and some binoculars for bird watching!
The Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary
is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during Daylight Savings Time, and from 9
a.m. to 5 p.m. the rest of the year.
For more information, call the office at (845) 265-2601. The Director of the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and
Sanctuary is Eric Lind, and the Program Director is Connie Mayer.
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