The Binghamton University Nature Preserve: Binghamton's Best-Kept Secret

We have lived in Vestal less than five miles from Binghamton University for almost four years. Just last month, we discovered a very well-kept secret in the Binghamton University Nature Preserve. Originally designated for recreation and playing fields in 1969, BU students and faculty protested and won in their desire to keep the area in its natural state. The Nature Preserve now consists of almost 190 acres, with some 20 acres of that being wetlands. Both the university and the general public use this area for a multitude of activities all year long.

The Nature Preserve is used on many different levels by the university for everything from gym-related classes like hiking and outdoor survival training to biology-related classes like ecology and wildlife habitat studies. Research is also conducted by several professors at the university on the plant, insect and animal life that exists within the preserve. Wildlife ranges from white-tail deer to salamanders and Canada Geese. During the spring part of the Connector Road is even closed off so that the salamanders can migrate from the forest to the wetlands to breed. Students also use the area on their own time to take a hike or have a picnic and just hang out with friends.

As a member of the local community, I have no ties to the university, but all are welcome at the Nature Preserve. Most of the trails are flat, which makes for a relaxing afternoon of walking for those of us with little to no hiking experience, although there are steeper trails for those who like a challenge. We enjoy the Pond Trail which, shockingly, takes you to the wetlands. Having a small child, the wetlands offer ducks, geese, fish and other creatures readily available for viewing, ensuring that the tranquility remains intact. On our last trip we even kicked up a white tail doe in the underbrush. There is a bridge that spans the entire pond and from above you can look down on the tadpoles, salamanders and sunfish that are hoping that you will break the rules and toss in some cracker crumbs.

In the winter the trails are also open to snow-shoe hikers and cross-country skiing. Some of the hikes are guided, but there are also times when you can use the trails for free.

The Nature Preserve is maintained in part by a group of volunteers called the Friends of the Nature Preserve who keep the area clear of litter and keep the trails marked and in great shape. Even after a lot of melting snow and a day or two of rain, there was fresh mulch on the pathways. In some of the messier spots there are little wooden bridges and stepping stones to make the trail more passable. The area is very well taken care of and a pleasurable place to spend the afternoon.

That being said, I highly recommend that you invest in a pair of hiking boots that you do not mind getting dirty. This is, after all, a hilly region in its natural state and it can get a bit muddy in parts, especially since it tends to rain a bit more than normal in Binghamton.

So, grab your boots, backpack, a bottle of water and a friend and check out this hidden treasure. For trail maps go here.

And enjoy your hike!