1. Mashomack Preserve
(directions)
Known as the "Jewel of the Peconic," this 2,350-acre nature preserve is a wonderland for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers alike. The preserve offers four well-marked trails varying in length from 1.5 to 11 miles, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in tidal creeks, woodlands, and fresh marshes. Local tip: keep an eye out for ospreys, as Mashomack Preserve is one of the largest havens for them in New York. You can download a map of the preserve on the Nature Conservancy’s website.