Lordsland Conservancy Preserve

Trails

Each of the two trails is about three-quarters of a mile long. The East Trail, with blue trail markers, starts out through a mixed forest, then turns downhill toward the beaver ponds and loops back to the starting point.

The West Trail, which has orange trail markers, crosses abandoned meadows as it goes down to the beaver ponds, then turns to the right, follows the ponds and then turns right again back to the entrance. Both trails can be wet underfoot, especially when the water level in the ponds is high.  The East Trail includes a short but rather steep climb.

What You'll See

A popular hunting ground with the Mohawk Indians, this land, except for the steep slopes, was cleared for agriculture in the early 1800s.  Some farming continued in the 1960s.  There are many reminders of former farming operations at this site, including old building foundations and unpruned apple trees.  The highest quality known stand in New York State of Jacob’s ladder (Polemonium van-bruntiae), a globally rare plant, is located here.  The mixed forest through which the East Trail makes its way is dominated by beech, sugar maple and hemlock.  Notice also the many small trees which have grown in what were open fields when the site was acquired. In May 1990, two birdwatchers identified 35 bird species within two hours.  Bring a bird guide and field glasses when you visit.

This preserve is located in the Town of Roseboom, Otsego County, about 55 miles west of Albany.