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Location
Best time
Visit during summer months to see more active animals. Many animals hibernate or are away during other seasons, so plan your visit for warmer months to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
Visitor tip
Focus on native NY wildlife exhibits like coyotes, bobcats, beavers, bears, and bald eagles rather than expecting exotic animals. This educational approach helps visitors understand local ecosystem and biodiversity specific to the Hudson Highlands region.
Visitor tip
Combine your visit with hiking the Appalachian Trail section that runs through the property. Reviewers highlight the breathtaking Hudson River and Highlands views as a major draw—the natural scenery is part of the attraction.
About Trailside Museums & Zoo
Natural history museum & animal habitat. Exhibits exploring local geology & ecology, plus rescued & rehabilitated wild animals.
What visitors say
This is great educational experience. First you are walking on the Appalachian trail which is cool just by itself. Then you have the breathtaking views of the river and the Hudson Highlands. The animals are mostly rescues that likely…
LOVED IT! More of a sanctuary for wlidlife that fell on hard times and need love and attention. Loved seeing Sylvia the Bobcat, I wish I could pet her cute, soft looking fur. The museums are really cute with real artifacts and facts…
Such a beautiful and relaxing place. Perfect to go with your family and friends. It's well maintained and preserved.
From 634 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- The attraction features the Appalachian Trail running directly through its grounds, combining hiking on a major national trail with animal exhibits and museum education
- All animals on display are native to the New York State region, focusing on local wildlife rather than exotic species, creating a regionally-specific educational experience
- The zoo operates as a wildlife sanctuary and rehabilitation center, housing rescued and rehabilitated animals that would likely have been euthanized without the facility
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