With 63% of New York State covered in beautiful forests, we’re incredibly lucky to have our home full of so many amazing places to explore. You might be used to adventuring through our forests in more secluded areas of our state, but what if I were to tell you that one of the most unique ecosystems in the world is right here in the heart of the Capital Region?

If this sounds too good to be true, don’t worry – it’s not! Keep reading to discover where this enchanted forest is hiding away.

Home to one of the largest pine barrens in the world, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is hiding away in one of the most unusual places.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve/Facebook
Right in the heart of the Capital Region off of New Karner Road, there are only roughly 20 other pine barrens in the entire world like this one.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve/Facebook
Covering 3,2000 acres, Albany Pine Bush was officially made a National Natural Landmark back in 2014.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve/Facebook
The preserve features a multi-use trail system that's open to the public and has over 18-miles of trails for you to explore.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve/Facebook

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Well-marked trails that are easy for all ages to navigate, you'll get the chance to walk through the forest, by ponds and to spot wildlife while you're here.
040304/TripAdvisor
If you look at the Albany Pine Bush Events Calendar, you'll see that all throughout the year they host exciting nature walks and outdoor events.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve/Facebook
On the calendar, you'll find exciting things like Frog and Bumble Bee Watches as well as Birding Days where you'll get the chance to look for all the amazing species of wildlife that call this ecosystem their home.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve/Facebook
Out of all the events that Albany Pine Bush hosts, one of our favorites is their Full Moon Firefly Walks - with the next one approaching on June 28th!
Albany Pine Bush Preserve/Facebook
With their trail system open to the public 24/7, it's always a great time to pay a visit to the Albany Pine Bush Preserve.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve/Facebook
Did you realize this unique hiking spot and outdoors center was right here in the heart of one of our state's biggest cities? The preserve is also one of the only spots in the region where you can see the federally endangered Karner Blue Butterflies.

Another thing to keep in mind? The Albany Pine Bush Preserve isn’t just an outdoor adventure to enjoy, they also have a fun Discover Center that you can visit! Open every day of the week, admission to the center is free and gives visitors of all ages the chance to learn more about this wonderful environment and why it’s so important and special to our state.
To find out more information, click here.

How to get here:
195 New Karner Road
Albany, NY 12205

Need another excuse to head outdoors? Then read about how This Beautiful Boardwalk Trail In New York Is One Of The Most Unique Hikes Around!

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