It's a winter walk with a river view - at Wertheim National
Wildlife Refuge on this Road Trip: Close to Home.
The refuge in Shirley protects
over 2,500 acres of the Carmans River watershed.
There are over 6 miles of trails to hike or cross country
ski.
There are two main paths to pick from. For the more scenic route, follow the White Oak Trail.
Walk through woodlands, grasslands and a wide variety of
habitats.
"We have fish, frogs, reptiles, this is one of the few
natural areas that these animals can still call home on Long Island," says
Ann Marie Chapman, of Wertheim National Wildlife
Refuge.
Some paths are paved, but be
sure to wear boots while there's still snow. There are great spots to stop and
see some beautiful birds, including one of the
bald eagles who calls this home.
And if you are not up for a long hike, just a short walk
away from the parking lot you can enjoy nature on the observation deck.
In warmer weather, you can kayak up to the floating dock.
You can do the walk seven days a week all year round during
daylight hours.