Get outdoors for fitness, fun and family time on this Road Trip: Close to Home to the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve in Merrick.

Hidden behind Merrick Road is a man-made park, and 52-acre preserve that serves as a plant and wildlife sanctuary.

It features three miles of groomed nature trails that was once a giant landfill.

You’ll be greeted by Nigerian dwarf goats. The goats work at the park - they are walked around the trails to control weed and brush overgrowth.

Walk to the water. A Peruvian hardwood fishing pier reaches 500 feet into Merrick Bay. If you have a kayak, bring it and go for a ride on the original Meadow Brook.

And if you want to get your workout on, and burn some extra calories, there are over a dozen exercise stations along the path. Save some energy for a short uphill trek. There are so many treats once you get to the top, including a human sundial.

You’ll also see a fully operational agricultural windmill.

The top is the highest point on Long Island's South Shore, there’s so much you can see from up there, including the Manhattan skyline.