Uplands Farm
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Uplands Farm Sanctuary

4.7
·73 reviews·Cold Spring Harbor, United States

A 97-acre sanctuary with diverse trails through forests and meadows, perfect for nature observation and peaceful hikes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Witness blooming wildflowers & active wildlife

CrowdLow
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Uplands Farm

Uplands Farm Sanctuary

Best Time

Spring mornings

Witness blooming wildflowers & active wildlife

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 97-acre sanctuary with diverse trails through forests and meadows, perfect for nature observation and peaceful hikes.

4.7
(73 reviews)

"Great place for a quiet hike. Just nature!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🛡️ Tick Protection is Crucial

Always use tick spray, even on mowed paths. Be prepared for potential detours around downed trees.

🗺️ Stay on Marked Trails

Trails connect to the Greenbelt; pay attention to signage to avoid getting lost.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Meadow Bird & Butterfly Watching

Meadow Bird & Butterfly Watching

Fields

Observe woodchucks, birds, and butterflies in open meadows. A vibrant ecosystem awaits!

Wooded Trail Serenity

Wooded Trail Serenity

Forests

Escape into peaceful wooded trails, perfect for a quiet hike and immersing yourself in nature.

Accessible Universal Trail

Accessible Universal Trail

Various locations

Explore nature on a brand new accessible trail, designed for everyone to enjoy the sanctuary's beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wild: Tick Awareness is Key

Uplands Farm Sanctuary boasts diverse environments, but ticks are present. Always use tick spray, even on mowed paths, and be mindful of potential downed trees requiring detours. Embrace the natural beauty, but come prepared for a wilder experience.

Trail Exploration: Connect and Discover

With numerous trails winding through forests and meadows, Uplands Farm Sanctuary offers varied exploration. Some paths connect to the larger Greenbelt trail, so pay attention to signage to stay on your intended route. Enjoy the quiet hikes and diverse natural settings.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Witness blooming wildflowers & active wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Enjoy cooler wooded trails
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Vibrant foliage and crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I had such a fun and grounding time preparing for @northshorelandalliance family picnic & environmental fair. While foraging for natural materials for my EcoArt activity @nature.ny Uplands Farm Sanctuary, it felt so good and aligned to only take what was needed, and to mindfully leave the rest. Remembering that everything we consume originates in an ecosystem, helps us adopt a more conscious, re...
morkeshetarttherapist
20 likes • 225 views

🛡️ Tick Protection is Crucial

Always use tick spray, even on mowed paths. Be prepared for potential detours around downed trees. Reddit

🗺️ Stay on Marked Trails

Trails connect to the Greenbelt; pay attention to signage to avoid getting lost. Reddit

WAKE UP TO WILDLIFE! With a morning trip to Saint John’s Pond Preserve, the fields at Uplands Farm Sanctuary, the Stillwell Woods Preserve grassland, and Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery tidal creek observation platform and public aquarium with NY native freshwater fish, reptiles, and amphibians on exhibit. BIRDERS AND NATURALISTS. Arrive at dawn when many of the easily seen birds will be young-of...
southshoreaudubon
20 likes • 509 views
Take a sneak peek at what’s happening at Uplands Farm Sanctuary in Cold Spring Harbor tomorrow on #NationalTrailsDay! Celebrate the beauty of our trails and the communities that care for them with guided hikes, easy-to-walk paths and special meet-and-greets with our incredible team—including Long Island Preserve Director Kevin Munroe. But don’t worry if you’re not nearby—we’ve got two more ...
nature.ny
128 likes • 3.7K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can have inclines and uneven terrain, especially in wooded areas. Reddit

💧 Bring Your Own Water

No public restrooms or services are available, so pack essentials. Reddit

We enjoyed the sweetest Earth Day outside with our big and little Semillitas at Uplands Farm Sanctuary! We learned about all the great work our pollinator friends—hummingbirds, bees, flies, and more—do to make sure we can all enjoy beautiful blooms and our delicious food. 🪶🐝🦋 To say thanks, we planted 1️⃣5️⃣0️⃣ native wildflower plugs, which will give our pollinators more food and safe homes as th...
latinooutdoors_nyc
38 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛡️ Tick Protection is Crucial

Always use tick spray, even on mowed paths. Be prepared for potential detours around downed trees. Reddit

🗺️ Stay on Marked Trails

Trails connect to the Greenbelt; pay attention to signage to avoid getting lost. Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can have inclines and uneven terrain, especially in wooded areas. Reddit

💧 Bring Your Own Water

No public restrooms or services are available, so pack essentials. Reddit

🦋 Pollinator Paradise

Visit during warmer months to see bees and butterflies actively pollinating wildflowers. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(73 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Uplands Farm Sanctuary for its diverse trails, offering peaceful wooded paths and open meadows ideal for wildlife observation. The new accessible trail is a welcome addition. While generally free and serene, be prepared for the lack of facilities and the presence of ticks.

"The wooded trails were a welcome relief on a warm, sunny day. Use tick spray, even when walkig in the center of the mowed trails. Some bushwhacking was need to avoid downed trees."

Bob Baxter

"I come here all the time. Plenty of different environments to explore. Trails around the fields, where you can bird and butterfly watch as well as see lots of woodchucks! There’s trails through the woods, and more trails toward the west that connect with the green belt trail.
Edit: came back after moving away in 2020 and it was still as I remembered! I look forward to next years visit"

Kandas L (Kandas Kathryn)

"Great place for a quiet hike. No publiv rest rooms. No services. No snacks or food. Just nature! Many many trails."

Suzala

What People Like

Diverse trails
Peaceful atmosphere
Wildlife viewing

What People Dislike

No restrooms
Tick presence

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Uplands Farm Sanctuary is located in Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island. While specific public transport details are scarce, driving is the most common method. Many visitors arrive by car and find parking available. Instagram

Yes, parking is available for visitors. It's recommended to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. Instagram

Information on direct public transport to Uplands Farm Sanctuary is limited. It's advisable to check local transit routes or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving. Instagram

Uplands Farm Sanctuary is near other natural areas like Saint John's Pond Preserve and Stillwell Woods Preserve, offering opportunities for extended nature exploration. Instagram

The sanctuary offers many trails. Using a trail map, if available, or a GPS app on your phone can be helpful, especially as some trails connect to the larger Greenbelt trail. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Uplands Farm Sanctuary is a preserve managed by The Nature Conservancy and often hosts events. Entry is generally free, but specific events may have associated fees or require registration. Instagram

As a nature preserve, Uplands Farm Sanctuary is typically open during daylight hours for visitors to explore the trails. Specific event hours will vary. Instagram

Generally, there is no admission fee to explore the trails at Uplands Farm Sanctuary. However, it's always a good idea to check for any special event ticketing information. Reddit

Uplands Farm Sanctuary is a natural space, so it's likely accessible on holidays during daylight hours. Check for any specific holiday event schedules. Instagram

Visitors are expected to respect the natural environment. Stick to marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and pack out everything you pack in. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The sanctuary features a variety of trails, including wooded paths, mowed trails through meadows, and an accessible universal trail. Some trails are 2.5 miles long and include inclines. InstagramReddit

No, there are no public restrooms available at Uplands Farm Sanctuary. Visitors should plan accordingly and use facilities before arriving. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in all sources, nature preserves often have leash laws for pets to protect wildlife. It's best to check with The Nature Conservancy or local regulations. Instagram

You can spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and woodchucks in the meadows. The wooded areas offer opportunities for observing forest-dwelling creatures. Instagram+1

Yes, Uplands Farm Sanctuary is excellent for birdwatching, especially in the meadow areas. Early mornings are often the best time to see a variety of avian species. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The meadows with wildflowers and wildlife, the serene wooded trails, and the newly accessible universal trail offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Capture the diverse ecosystems. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in nature preserves to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

Macro photography of insects and wildflowers in the meadows, landscape shots of the wooded areas, and wildlife photography are popular subjects. Instagram+1

Events like Earth Day celebrations often feature unique photo ops, such as planting wildflowers or butterfly releases. Instagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the best natural light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but shaded wooded trails are always an option. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Uplands Farm Sanctuary is a fantastic spot for families looking for an educational and engaging outdoor experience. The newly accessible universal trail makes it easy for everyone, including those with strollers or younger children, to explore the sanctuary's beauty.Instagram+1 Kids will love spotting woodchucks, birds, and butterflies in the meadows,InstagramReddit and events often include fun activities like planting wildflowers or butterfly releases, making learning about nature exciting.Instagram

Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on-site.Reddit Applying tick spray is essential for everyone's protection.Reddit The variety of trails, from open meadows to shaded woods, offers different sensory experiences for children, making it a well-rounded nature outing.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For those seeking a quiet escape, Uplands Farm Sanctuary offers numerous peaceful trails through forests and meadows.Reddit The diverse environments provide ample opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.Instagram+1 The sanctuary's extensive trail network, including connections to the Greenbelt, allows for personalized hiking experiences, whether you prefer a short, contemplative walk or a longer exploration.Reddit

It's crucial for solo hikers to be prepared. Always use tick spray Reddit and be mindful of trail markers, especially where trails connect to the Greenbelt.Reddit Since there are no services, carrying sufficient water and any personal necessities is vital for a comfortable and safe visit. The sanctuary's serene atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for reflection and reconnecting with the natural world.

🌿 Eco-Conscious Visitors

Uplands Farm Sanctuary is a testament to conservation efforts, making it a perfect destination for eco-conscious visitors. The planting of native wildflower plugs to support pollinators is a highlight, showcasing the sanctuary's commitment to biodiversity.Instagram The focus on preserving natural habitats means you can experience a thriving ecosystem, from the meadows buzzing with bees to the forests home to various bird species.Instagram+1

Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out everything you pack in and respecting the natural environment. The sanctuary's accessible trails also demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity in nature access, allowing more people to appreciate and connect with the environment. Engaging with the educational aspects of events can further deepen your understanding of local conservation challenges and successes.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails of Uplands Farm Sanctuary

Uplands Farm Sanctuary offers a network of trails catering to various preferences. You'll find mowed paths through open meadows, perfect for observing wildlife like woodchucks, birds, and butterflies.InstagramReddit These areas provide a sense of openness and are great for casual strolls. For a more immersive experience, the wooded trails offer shade and a quieter atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a peaceful hike.Reddit These paths can sometimes have inclines and uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.Reddit

A significant development is the creation of a brand new accessible universal trail, ensuring that more people can enjoy the sanctuary's natural beauty.Instagram+1 This trail is designed for ease of access, making it a welcoming option for families with strollers, individuals with mobility challenges, or anyone who prefers a smoother walking surface. Some trails at Uplands Farm Sanctuary also connect to the larger Greenbelt trail system, offering opportunities for longer excursions. It's important to be aware of signage to ensure you stay on your intended path, especially when venturing onto these connecting routes.Reddit

When exploring, remember that nature preserves can be home to ticks. Visitors consistently advise using tick spray as a preventative measure, even when walking in the center of mowed trails.Reddit Be prepared for the possibility of encountering downed trees that might require some bushwhacking or detouring to navigate around.Reddit Despite these minor challenges, the diverse environments and well-maintained paths make Uplands Farm Sanctuary a rewarding destination for nature lovers.

Wildlife Encounters and Conservation Efforts

Uplands Farm Sanctuary is a haven for local wildlife, with its diverse habitats supporting a rich ecosystem. The meadows are particularly vibrant, attracting a variety of bird species, buzzing bees, and even woodchucks scurrying across the grass.Instagram+1 These open spaces are ideal for birdwatching and butterfly observation, offering a chance to witness nature's delicate interactions firsthand. During events like Earth Day, the sanctuary actively engages in conservation efforts, such as planting native wildflower plugs to support pollinator populations.Instagram

The sanctuary also plays a role in educating visitors about the importance of these creatures. For instance, events have highlighted the crucial work of pollinators like hummingbirds and bees, emphasizing their role in both blooming flowers and food production.Instagram This educational aspect adds another layer to the visitor experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. The presence of these animals and the ongoing conservation initiatives underscore Uplands Farm Sanctuary's commitment to preserving local biodiversity.

While the focus is on observing wildlife in its natural habitat, visitors are reminded to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. The trails are designed to allow for viewing without intrusion, ensuring that both visitors and wildlife can coexist peacefully. The sanctuary's dedication to conservation makes it a valuable place for learning and experiencing the wonders of nature.

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