
John Burroughs Slabsides
Explore the rustic cabin and woodland trails of naturalist John Burroughs, a serene retreat in the Hudson Valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant temps

John Burroughs Slabsides
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the rustic cabin and woodland trails of naturalist John Burroughs, a serene retreat in the Hudson Valley.
"Mosquitoes and poison ivy are prevalent, but the natural beauty and historic cabin make it worthwhile!"

🦟 Bring Serious Bug Spray
Mosquitoes are intense! Long pants & sleeves are a must.
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Signage can be tricky. Use AllTrails for navigation.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

John Burroughs' Slabsides
Log Cabin
Step into the rustic cabin where the famed naturalist wrote. Imagine his life surrounded by nature's tranquility.

Woodland Trails
Various trails
Explore diverse terrain, from flat carriage paths to rocky ascents, through beautiful Northeast forest.

Pond Views
Overlooking the pond
Enjoy a peaceful moment by the pond, a perfect spot for a packed lunch amidst serene surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bug Spray is Non-Negotiable
Trail Navigation & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Spending next week in Highland and would love some recommendations!
🦟 Bring Serious Bug Spray
Mosquitoes are intense! Long pants & sleeves are a must.
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Signage can be tricky. Use AllTrails for navigation.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails have rocks, roots, and soft spots. Boots are better than sneakers.
💧 No Restrooms Available
Plan ahead before you arrive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Bring Serious Bug Spray
Mosquitoes are intense! Long pants & sleeves are a must.
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Signage can be tricky. Use AllTrails for navigation.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails have rocks, roots, and soft spots. Boots are better than sneakers.
💧 No Restrooms Available
Plan ahead before you arrive.
🏞️ Explore Beyond Slabsides
Check out Middle Falls Trail for waterfalls!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise John Burroughs Slabsides for its beautiful natural setting and the historical charm of the writer's cabin. The varied hiking trails offer a pleasant outdoor experience. However, many reviewers strongly caution about the prevalence of mosquitoes and poison ivy, emphasizing the need for ample bug spray and protective clothing. Inconsistent trail signage is also a recurring point of feedback, with some finding it difficult to navigate.
"A beautiful setting for a writer. Signage is not good! You go up the steep, winding road until you come to a wide spot on the right. At the far end on the right there's a gravel path with a chain. Beyond that it's about a 5 minute beautiful walk, with mosquitoes!"
John Sgammato
"The hiking trails are not well marked and it was very buggy (make sure you bring bug spray!)"
Allison Dudek
"The John Burroughs Nature Sanctuary is a local gem in the Hudson Valley region. It's beautiful North East region forest in its natural state. The trails were very easy to follow and well marked which is different than some reviewers remarked so I was prepared for inconsistent blazing and poor signage but such was not the case. Slabsides is lovely...I wish we could have gone inside. Please note that a small mouse is living in the visitor log box so dont be afraid when you open it. The trail had a great deal of poison ivy along its edges and the mosquitos were TERRIBLE!!!! For these reasons, I would encourage long pants and covered skin. I even needed the hood on my sweat shirt to keep them off my neck. Dont try it without bug spray!!!!! Its also best done in hiking boots vs sneakers because there are soft areas and some rocks/ roots in places. No restrooms so plan accordingly. AllTrails has a nice map that was very accurate with a 4.4 mile loop but I also recommend hopping down to the second parking lot and walking the Middle Falls Trail. Its not alot more mileage and the 3 waterfalls are very worth it! Water was flowing nice today and mushrooms were amazing! A great trail! Parking is limited but its not heavily traveled either."
Ingrid Hill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point involves driving up a steep, winding road. Look for a wide spot on the right with a gravel path and a chain at the far end. Parking is limited.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Slabsides due to its rural location. Driving is the most practical method.
While some visitors find the trails well-marked, others suggest using a trail map app like AllTrails, as signage can be inconsistent.
Consider visiting the nearby Middle Falls Trail for its waterfalls, which adds minimal mileage to your outing.
The road is described as steep and winding. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for this approach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no explicit mention of an entrance fee for Slabsides. It's generally considered a nature sanctuary accessible to visitors.
Specific operating hours are not always clearly defined. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Visitors can see the exterior of John Burroughs' Slabsides cabin, a historic log structure. Access inside may be limited or by special arrangement.
No advance booking is typically required for Slabsides. It operates as a natural area for exploration.
Be mindful of the natural environment. Stick to marked trails, pack out what you pack in, and be aware of poison ivy and insects.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The trails offer varied terrain, including flat carriage paths, stone steps, and some rocky sections. It's a mix of easy and moderate hiking.
While beautiful, the trails can be challenging for very young children due to uneven terrain and potential for insects. Parental supervision is key.
As a nature sanctuary, you might encounter various woodland creatures. Keep an eye out for birds and other small animals.
No, there are no restrooms available at Slabsides. Visitors should plan accordingly before their visit.
Take your time to explore the trails, enjoy the peaceful pond, and appreciate the rustic charm of the historic cabin.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities at Slabsides. It is a natural area focused on the outdoors.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. Many visitors enjoy lunch on the rocks overlooking the pond.
It's recommended to pack all your food and drinks, as there are no services available.
The surrounding Hudson Valley region offers various dining options in nearby towns. Research local restaurants for post-hike meals.
Absolutely not. Visitors are expected to pack out all trash and leave the area as they found it.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the rustic charm of the Slabsides cabin, the serene pond views, and the natural beauty of the woodland trails.
Yes, the diverse forest environment, pond, and potential for wildlife make it a good spot for nature photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for photography, especially around the pond.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check local regulations or contact the managing authority before flying a drone.
A versatile lens for landscapes and close-ups, along with a wide-angle lens for the cabin and pond, would be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails of Slabsides
Be prepared for the natural elements. The trails are often bordered by poison ivy, and mosquitoes can be particularly intense, especially during warmer months. Wearing long pants, long sleeves, and using a strong insect repellent are crucial for a comfortable experience. For footwear, hiking boots are generally preferred over sneakers due to the presence of soft ground, rocks, and roots in certain areas. Remember that there are no restrooms on-site, so plan accordingly before you embark on your hike.
The Historic Slabsides Cabin
While you can explore the exterior and the immediate surroundings of the cabin, access inside may be limited. The visitor log box is a small detail that adds a touch of charm, though be aware of its tiny resident! The area around the cabin and the adjacent pond provides a tranquil setting, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or a picnic lunch. It’s a place where the history of American nature writing feels palpable, offering a peaceful escape into the past and the present natural world.






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