Hawthorne-Stempler Preserve

Preserve Rules and Policies

  • 77 acres
  • Conserved 1979
    • Woodland Trails
    • Wetland Trails
  • 1.35 miles of trails
    • Easy Terrain

Activities

  • Dog Walking
  • Hiking

Trail Description

Hawthorne-Stempler Preserve offers a scenic and peaceful walk through wetlands and forest. The preserve can be accessed from both Bogtown Road or David Drive, with more parking available at the David Drive entrance. From there, follow the 0.25-mile Yellow Trail across boardwalks winding through beautiful wetlands until it connects with the 1.1-mile Orange Trail. The Orange Trail forms a loop back to the Yellow Trail and also features a spur to the Bogtown Road entrance. Along the way, enjoy additional boardwalks and a charming stream crossing bridge that highlight the preserve’s natural beauty.

Parking

Hawthorne
North Salem, NY 10560
41°18'46.2"N 73°37'42.5"W

Location in Google Maps

Stempler
38 Bogtown Rd
North Salem, NY 10560
41°19'13.1"N 73°37'31.8"W

Location in Google Maps

Over the years, a remarkable stretch of protected land has grown here through the generosity of our community. It began in 1979, when a 34-acre parcel was donated as part of the Hawthorne Lake development. Dominated by a New York State–designated wetland, its marshy expanse offers a haven for wildlife and unusual plants, even if it’s not easily explored on foot.

In 2006, longtime North Salem resident Stephen Stempler expanded this natural sanctuary with 44 acres along Bogtown Road—home to forests, mature oak stands, wetlands, and open fields.

The most recent addition came in 2023, when the Hanna family gifted 4.3 acres of primarily wetland. With its natural basin, this land quietly filters stormwater and replenishes groundwater, sustaining a rich variety of native flora and fauna. Together, these parcels form a thriving habitat that will remain a refuge for nature for generations to come.

We are dedicated to preserving the character and natural beauty of the town of North Salem, NY and the area around it by establishing land areas free from exploitation, development, and deterioration and by maintaining the environmental and ecological integrity of the area.

Become a Member