We are all still learning
the ins and outs of the new normal. It’s been six weeks. The weather is
starting to become nicer and people are itching to emerge from isolation. The
good news is, that families can still adventure outdoors with proper guidelines.
If it’s crowded, move on. I thought the Vanderbilt Mansion
National Historic Site in Hyde Park was
completely shutdown since the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic
Site is, as well as several other Hyde Park locations for outdoor fun. In fact,
I stopped to get a nifty photo of the park's closed sign and even though I was
super quick, I had a park ranger flashing his lights at me and honking
repeatedly. He even followed me down the road. I wasn’t even in the closed
park.

But Vanderbilt was a
social-distancing nightmare and there wasn't a park ranger in sight. Cars were
parked bumper-to-bumper down Route 9 and there were whole families, some of
which I counted with at least five people, with picnic supplies, sporting equipment,
etc. They were going through the small open door and a path up the road a bit.
It was complete insanity. If you see a spot you want to go that has this many
cars, move on. There are plenty of other options in the area even with the few
shutdown parks. If you are on the trail and it gets crowded, step to the side
if you can. If the trail is too narrow, pull up your mask before passing.

Don’t touch. I see a lot of parents on the trails giving their children a
science lesson. Picking everything up. Turning things over. It’s super-awesome
that you are exposing your children to nature, however, don’t pluck it from the
earth or disrupt it. If everyone does this, it’s going to have a ripple effect
and really hurt the ecosystem. I’m guilty of letting my child carry a stick or
a small rock. But, it’s when people start uprooting things and making a mess that it becomes an issue and most places don’t take policy. There are
plenty of cool apps that help people identify things in
nature without harming it. Also, some places have interactive forests with
small plaques explaining what different trees and other items found in nature.
Carry out what you carry
in. This is should be common sense. However, we have seen an influx of
trash and items left behind items. Everything from someone’s reading glasses to
underwear to dirty toilet paper. If you need to go number two, go off the trail,
dig a hole, and bury everything. Otherwise, if you can, wait until you can find
a bathroom. Keep in mind, that the bathrooms in many parks currently are closed.
Even food scraps can be harmful. Yogi doesn’t need your leftover peanut butter
and jelly. Besides, giving wildlife your food can not only hurt them
physically, but it can also get them desensitized towards humans. Sadly, if a
bear or other animal starts approaching humans on the trail, the outcome might
not be so good for that animal. Carry out everything you carry in.

Play it safe. I have seen way too many
people who clearly were not experienced on trails that were way above their
skill level. My daughter and I watched a family of about five try and navigate
a difficult rock scramble descent. The one daughter panicked and was trapped on
the side of the mountain. This isn’t your average playground. Rocks can come
loose, panicking can cause a poor judgment call, a misstep can become deadly and not just for you. This particular scramble even caught us a little off guard even though we scramble fairly often. However, we made our points of contact and talked our
way through it.

We try to list hikes for
all levels. Stick to what you are comfortable with and don’t go off what looks
fun or the level even we are at because we are not standard to age level.
Final thoughts. With proper distancing and
common sense, the woods can still be an awesome escape. For trail suggestions,
please head over to Abby Girl’s Trail Review. It’s also updated regularly.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. Also, find Adventures of
Abby Girl and follow on all social media platforms. We also are on Youtube!
Trail
suggestion: Taconic Hereford Multi-Use Area
Other posts by this this blogger
Dec 14, 2020
There is so much happening this time of year even with a pandemic looming in the air. These local picks, will truly bring back the family Christmas cheer
Nov 30, 2020
Free of hunters and very tranquil, Fred Dill Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to take the family for a lovely fall walk
Nov 17, 2020
Did you know that there are a lot of places to adventure with your four-legged child in the Hudson Valley? Read the places we have gone so far!
Nov 9, 2020
There are a million ways to adventure at home now without going anywhere. Whatever your child's passion is, there seems to be a virtual option now!
Nov 2, 2020
There are so many cool opportunities for homeschoolers right in the Hudson Valley. Read Abby Girl's top recommendations for social interaction!
Oct 19, 2020
Kesicke Farm and Rose Hill Farm are both great according to Abby Girl and family. However, each is unique in their own way. Learn more!
Oct 12, 2020
Hi spunky families looking for easier trails with some length to them! Read about three that are great hiking in Beacon NY that are all connected.
Oct 5, 2020
Kingston Point Rail Trail is a great place for families to take a stroll and enjoy in the views of the Hudson River.
Sep 3, 2020
Olana State Historic Site in Hudson is an awesome place for a couple reasons. Also, let's follow some awesome ideas about what we should do while outdoors on a hike.
Aug 6, 2020
Wappinger Greenway Trail System in Dutchess County is a great way to explore this area whether it's a historical place or a trail through nature. Read more!
Aug 6, 2020
The Cary Institute is a great place for everyone to enjoy and little ones to explore. Read to learn more and changes that have been made since COVID.
Aug 6, 2020
The Harlem Valley Trail is really nice. There is so much to see along the trail and plenty to do afterwards.
Aug 6, 2020
There are endless places to dip the toes in the water in the Hudson Valley and surrounding areas. In fact, too many to share in one post. Abby and I have visited each of these places that I write about. .
Aug 6, 2020
We love hikes that have lot's to see and do and that have a true story behind them. So read all about the latest location Adventures of Abby Girl Found
Aug 6, 2020
An awesome hike with lot's of wow factor. Highly recommend this trail in the corner of three states! Read all about our adventure
Aug 6, 2020
This family friendly hike has lot's of rolling hills and varying scenery. When all done with hike, go stop in for some awesome smoked food at Big W's!
Aug 6, 2020
When you are out for a drive it's alright to go grab takeout or support a local farmer's market. So go ahead, think local with these recommendations
Aug 6, 2020
Besides the initial uphill at High Banks Preserve, the hike is fairly easy. The best part is the reward at the end of the trail!
Aug 6, 2020
There are so many amazing resources during this time that make it a lot easier to stay home. Here are some great resources to adventure from home
Aug 6, 2020
We can still support local businesses during this time. However, it's just in different ways now. Here are three local companies to look at during this time
Aug 6, 2020
The Shawangunk Grasslands Wildlife Refuge is an amazing place for families to stretch their legs and be with the birds for miles of grassland wandering
Aug 6, 2020
It is hard being stuck in the house. We must social distance and isolate ourselves. However, there is no rule saying we still can't adventure in our car
Aug 6, 2020
Hyde Park has an awesome trail system. Families that feel spunky can even explore multiple locations in one day!
Aug 6, 2020
Hyde Park has an awesome trail system. Families that feel spunky can even explore multiple locations in one day!
Aug 6, 2020
This week learn of an easy hike and one more moderate hike. Both awesome and totally different. Go explore
Aug 6, 2020
Go visit Saratoga Spa State Park. There is something for everyone and something for every season. Find out about our adventure and what the park has to offer!
Aug 6, 2020
If families are seeking an outdoor store that offers so much more right down to an amazing educational experience, then travel to Cabela's in East Hartford Connecticut
Aug 6, 2020
Abby glides on ice at McCann Ice Arena where she got to try ice skating once again. Her first time, she barely got off ice. Read all about the experience!
Aug 6, 2020
Adventures of Abby Girl is always seeking out cool new things. So how about a program spent with llamas and books! Find out where you can both and more
Aug 6, 2020
Feel beautiful at Ell Beauty Bar in Poughkeepsie New York. They have many services available and are awesome with children. Read all about Abby girl's experience!
Aug 6, 2020
There's no place like home. Read this article to discover fun activities to do while staying home! You can have an awesome adventure without leaving your front yard. The key is keep them occupied!
Aug 6, 2020
Head to the Danbury Fair Mall. They have great affordable clothing finds at stores such as Primark. The food court has many options and their are several fun activities too
Jul 31, 2020
Abby girl loves attending area home school meetups. In fact, there are several to pick from and all offer a specialized experiences. Perhaps you will find one you like too!
Jun 24, 2020
Standing on the tip of the summit known as Anthony's nose feels very rewarding. A great moderate hike in the HudsonValley
Jun 23, 2020
The weather has been wacky. Not knowing what March has in store, Abby Girl is recommending an inside and outside activity this week
Jun 8, 2020
Have fun on a family adventure in the car. See the beautiful scenery of the Valley, stop for a bite or a quick walk.
Dec 28, 2019
Abby had an awesome horse experience at Ridge Runner Ranch. She recently attended their winter break horse camp and had a blast.
Dec 22, 2019
PM Pediatrics in Hopewell New York is an urgent care that just caters to children. This time of year with all the sniffles going around, it's a great place to know about
Dec 15, 2019
Tymor Park is in Lagrangeville New York and has so much to offer at any point of the year
Dec 7, 2019
Winter Hiking at Shaupeneak is a whole lot of fun and there are many acres to explore. Just remember to follow a couple rules when setting out in the winter months.
Dec 2, 2019
Take the Children to Create at the Nest and they will have an opportunity for their minds to explore and create.
Nov 22, 2019
Go visit the Hudson River Maritime Museum to learn all about the rich history of the river, all the science of the river and items and life that are found there.
Nov 18, 2019
The holidays are fast upon us. Now is the time to find out how to relax in the Hudson Valley before the holiday festivities begin. Read where in this article
Nov 11, 2019
Cornish Estates and Little Stony Point are perfect places to explore with your families. The best part is that there is so much to see between the deep woodlands, to ruins to the beach
Nov 3, 2019
Louisa Pond is a wonderful place to get creative whether picking new routes to wander or drawing a picture. Louisa Pond in Esopus is an awesome family destination to get inspired
Oct 28, 2019
Vassar Farm and Ecological Preserve is a great place right on the outskirts of the city of Poughkeepsie to get back to nature with your family
Oct 18, 2019
The Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center is a great place for people of all ages to view wonderful art and take part in great programming
Oct 11, 2019
Making Memories at Minard's Family Farm with so much to see and do, you will definitely need a few hours to do everything. Oh and the apples are delicious!
Oct 4, 2019
Back to Harmony Garden School of Music where the new school year brings lots of exciting things for this awesome music studio
Sep 29, 2019
Horses for a Change is a great place to have your child ride a horse no matter your level.
Sep 20, 2019
Go to Dennings Point for a great family hike in a peaceful setting surrounded by the Hudson River and ruins from the old Brick Works.
Sep 7, 2019
Hurds Family Farm in Modena New York is a great family destination with so many activities to do.
Aug 31, 2019
Read to the Animals at the Dutchess County SPCA is a wonderful program with so many benefits. Read the details in the article to learn more.
Aug 24, 2019
We have so many different types of places that we go, that we couldn't fit them all in one article! Here are some recommendations
Aug 19, 2019
Adventures of Abby Girl, week after week, talks about places to go, see and do. However, what are our top picks?
Aug 9, 2019
Bower Park in Pleasant Valley New York is a little hidden gem. It's not too big. There are trails too and it never seems that crowded. Great for little ones.
Aug 4, 2019
Dinosaur Place at Nature Art Village is an awesome place for families to take their children. Awesome for preschoolers who love dinosaurs. The perfect day trip!
Jul 26, 2019
The Appalachian Trail has it all! Check out day hikes, section hikes, thru-hikes, tough hikes, easy strolls and scenic views.
Jul 19, 2019
Penny's Party Place is an adorable, fun venue to have your next party.
Jul 12, 2019
This week, we go beyond the general activities at Pine Ridge Dude Ranch and tried to highlight everything that made this trip so awesome!
Jul 8, 2019
Great Family Summer Getaway-Pine Ridge Dude Ranch; Part 1 discusses all the cool activities Abby Girl and family got to try. Stay tuned for Part 2 next week
Jun 30, 2019
Franklin Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum is a a great eductional experience for people of all ages located right in Hyde Park, NY
Jun 21, 2019
Abby Girl Recommends Easy Trails in Hudson Valley. The nice weather is here and many people have been asking, where are the easy trails to walk.
Jun 14, 2019
Abby Goes to Great Warm Weather Park, Bowdoin Park. A lot to do at this park. Abby loves having many adventures here. Read to find out what they have
Jun 2, 2019
Franny Reese State Park in Highland, NY has a lot to offer. There are several different terrains to traverse. Also, there are ruins.
May 25, 2019
Go Hike Fishkill Ridge to Lambs Hill for awesome views and a really good workout. Lot's of different terrain too. Great for more experienced adults and children.
May 18, 2019
Forsyth Nature Center, Kingston NY is a great place to explore and learn. There are also walking trails, a field and a pavilion and playground right there.
May 10, 2019
Fairy tale Setting at Dover Stone Church. Magical setting with so much to see and explore. It's also good for many abilitites
May 3, 2019
Go Wander in Clarence Fahnestock State Park. We have done several trails in Fahnestock and have many more to explore
Apr 26, 2019
Get Fit Challenge is Back with so many locations to explore! We are ambassadors for this awesome six week fitness challenge and want everyone to join
Apr 19, 2019
Abby goes to Little Woods at Freedom Park. Great interactive trail for little ones in Dutchess County, NY. Great for the tiny, free-spirited Adventurers
Apr 12, 2019
Cafe Arts in Highland, NY is a unique shop with a true old fashioned feel. Cafe Arts has everything from vintage clothes to locally created art & more
Apr 5, 2019
Abby Girl has an awesome wardrobe. Most is picked out by her and is very unique. We shop on a major budget and find some awesome stuff.
Mar 29, 2019
Hopeland Trails, Staatsburg NY around the lake. We are very excited for spring. Abby girl, Noodles and I explored a loop around the pond and jumped in puddles despite the 45 degree weather.
Mar 23, 2019
Abby Girl goes to Pleasant Valley Library. Abby goes to several different libraries. Every library has something unique to offer.
Mar 15, 2019
James Baird State Park Turtle Playground is an awesome fairly new playground that was gaining a lot of buzz last year. It's not just fun but educational too!
Mar 8, 2019
Sprout Creek Farm and Kid Season (AKA Baby Goats). It is that time of the year again when many little kids are born at Sprout Creek Farm in Poughkeepsie, NY and you can be apart of it!
Mar 1, 2019
Abby Girl goes to Mindful Yoga with Liz. Abby is constantly out seeking new adventures and experiences. This week, she had a nice calm experience at Mindful Yoga with Liz
Feb 22, 2019
Adriance Memorial Library, Poughkeepsie NY has tons of free programs happening for your little ones to keep them busy.
Feb 15, 2019
Abby Goes to Harmony Garden School of Music which is a kindermusik studio located in Hopewell JCT, NY. She has been attending various level of classes since four months of age and now is just over 3.
Feb 8, 2019
Muscoot Farm is a great farm to take children of all ages. There are buildings to explore, animals and farm items from long ago, hiking and more
Feb 1, 2019
Snowed in and having fun at Pine Ridge Dude Ranch. There is still plenty to do. We didn't even get through half we wanted to do! We were constantly doing something fun. Activities for whole family at this all inclusive ranch resort
Jan 25, 2019
Pine Ridge Dude Ranch, Kerhonkson, NY. What was old is made new at the now Pine Ridge Dude Ranch. But some things remain, an awesome experience and down home feeling at this Catskill all inclusive Resort.
Jan 18, 2019
First time ice skating at McCann Ice Arena in Poughkeepsie, NY with a 3 three old can only go one of two ways-excellent or epic fail. We started out super excited and ended in epic fail.
Jan 12, 2019
Cold Weather Hiking-Bald Mountain Via Bear Mountain State Park, NY didn't go as planned. Yet, it was still and adventure and an accomplishment for this mom hiker and daughter.
Jan 5, 2019
The Dutchess County Rail Trail is a great place to walk, run, ride bikes, rollerblade and just let out some of the winter energy
Dec 21, 2018
Peach hill Park in Poughkeepsie, NY is located in the Hudson Valley. It is a hidden gem and very family friendly either for a hike, stroll or picnic.It is also located in a former apple orchard.
Dec 14, 2018
First great place to hike with children when the leaves fall