The Blue Cut Nature Center is a lovely 40-acre nature preserve located just outside Lyons, New York. Although it is called a nature center, it is actually more of a nature preserve. The only buildings are two picnic pavilions. We had driven past this place on numerous occasions without giving it much thought, simply because it looked more like a rest area or picnic area from the parking lot. Recently, we decided to give it a closer look, and we weren’t disappointed.
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Trails
There are several trails in this preserve (about 2 miles in totality) that travel through hardwood forests, towering pines, and wetlands. You must follow the mowed path from the parking lot to get to the trails. The trails can be muddy and slippery after it rains, especially on the park’s north end, where the trails are steeper. While not well marked, the paths are fairly open, so there is no danger of getting lost in this preserve.
While I wouldn’t call this an endurance hike, the topography is not flat, but honestly, that just adds to the preserve’s beauty as the trail twists and turns through the hills. This preserve is quite alluring regardless of the weather. We visited just before a downpour and enjoyed ourselves, despite the heavy rain. If you visit in the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted. Dogs are permitted but must be on a leash, and you need to pick up after them. Bikes are prohibited on the trails.
Wildlife
This preserve is lovely. Walking under the cathedral of pine trees that line one of the trails is amazing. It is incredible how small these enormous trees can make you feel. The animal life in this preserve is abundant between the forest and the wetlands. As we walked, we saw a large assortment of birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and deer. They were fairly active regardless of the rain.
Trains
The Blue Cut Nature Center is named for the Vernon Shale, which is bluish in color, and was exposed during the mid-1800s during the construction of the adjacent railroad. This is a great place for train lovers who can observe trains passing as they walk the trails.
Getting to Blue Cut
Blue Cut Nature Center is pretty easy to get to. Located on Route 31 between Newark and Lyons. It comes up quickly and looks like a parking area with picnic tables for all intents and purposes.
Google Maps Link
Have you visited Blue Cut Nature Center? Did we miss anything? We would love to hear your thoughts about Blue Cut Nature Center. Please leave us a comment below.