Trailside Nature Museum at Pound Ridge
Box 461
Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
Routes 35 and 121
Cross River, NY 10518
(914) 864-7322
Official Website

At 4,700 acres, Ward Pound Ridge is one of Westchester County's most beautiful parks. It includes more than 35 miles of hiking trails, with several Self-Guided Nature Trails, as well as Camping Facilities (open-faced lean-tos), Horse Trails (BYOH -- bring your own horse), a beautiful Wildflower Garden, and winter activities such as Cross-Country Skiing Trails and slopes for sled and ski.

The Trailside Museum, in operation since 1938, features Displays and Programs that introduce visitors to the natural environment and human history of the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation and the Cross River Area. Exhibits include Taxidermic Mounts of local wildlife, a Weather Station, Historical Relics, and Indian Artifacts intermixed with a variety of Seasonal Displays. During summer months visitors can enjoy live flora and fauna, as well as a Demonstration Bee-Hive.

Throughout the year a variety of Family Programs are offered, including Bird Walks, Guided Hikes, Cross-Country Ski Workshops, Children's Activities, Stargazing Sessions, and other great activities. Call for a schedule. Other services include a Children's Summer Ecology Program, Career Consultation, and an extensive Delaware Indian Resource Center for in-depth studies.

School and other Groups can participate in a number of inter-active educational programs. Past programs have included Stream Life: students explore a section of stream and discover algae, liverworts, sponges, crayfish, mussels, and other animals; Indian Lore: includes a visit to a replicated wigwam as a vivid introduction to the lives of Native Americans; and The Old Leatherman: an interesting examination of the life of a colorful hermit who wandered the area in the late 19th century, including a visit to one of Leatherman's caves. These and other programs are available for Elementary School children. Maximum class size is 30.