Huge thank you to Ranger Scott. He was the most generous guide and gave us the beautiful history of this nature trail. Impeccably dressed in his dri fit Ranger gear, he upheld the brand of Avalon Preserve. It was my father's bday, RIP, and we got to honor him with postcards at the Sphere for a spiritual send off. Thanks Scott. You added so much to our visit read more

Avalon Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Stony Brook, New York

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Spectacular preserve Absolutely tremendous Lots of acreage No bathrooms Prepare to walk a lot! Some ground was dicey for a 75 year old to trek while other paths were mowed grass and easy to walk on Free entry and parking Shep Jones Rd is best parking Lots of areas being maintained so not open read more

Avalon Nature Preserve is a nice place to go hiking. I've always enjoyed being outdoors, taking in the scenery, listening to the birds, and meeting others who share my love for mini adventures. Upon arriving, my husband and I parked in the Forest parking lot, which had ample parking spaces and a map, laying out available trail options. We began with the Hilltop Meadow, which we completed fairly quickly. After, we thought we'd challenge ourselves a bit more by taking on the Forest Sanctuary. We enjoyed this trail, although we sometimes had to look over our shoulders to investigate the noises around us. Everything kept us on our toes, from squirrels to deer, chipmunks, and other wildlife. The terrain may be difficult for some, due to the tree roots and the uphill climbs, but other than that, it was manageable. We appreciated that there were several signs posted throughout the park, helping us to keep track of our location. Additionally, there were warning signs reminding us of the possibility of tick exposure. One thing is for sure: we kept it moving and thoroughly checked our clothing afterwards. My favorite trail of the day was The Mill Pond. I loved the well-paved paths and the overall layout. I could've spent hours here. I highly recommend this park for those who enjoy the outdoors. read more

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What a beautiful and peaceful sanctuary, in spite of the loud and obnoxious couple talking behind us, who we let pass us. This lovely Park and Preserve is so nicely designed and affords places to sit and ponder or look out for turtles and birds and all sorts of things. We visited on a beautiful day during the week and it wasn't very crowded. I can imagine this place is probably pretty popular and might not be as tranquil but I'm so glad I came when I did. Plus, dogs are allowed! That was a huge bonus for me. I would absolutely recommend and come back. It's not a difficult hike but there are a set of stairs which might be challenging for some. There was also a cool stone path labyrinth and Zen garden. read more

Avalon Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Stony Brook, New York

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Gorgeous place! Lot's of cool trails to go through and has so many separate areas! First you have the lake area, then the meadow, then the forest...etc Avalon has lot's of variety! read more

You absolutely have to visit this place--it's amazing! The lake is beautiful, and I saw so many frogs. The trails, though small, offer a great workout with just a few laps. The "maze" is an actual maze, and I even got lost in it! It's a fantastic spot for families, offering fun and adventure for everyone. read more

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Came out here on a weekday afternoon for a post-telework workout. Locals say that the entire trail has been closed since March for construction but should reopen by Summer. So I just stood before the lake and took photos of the two swans who were floating in the water. Word has it that their newborn cygnets have not been seen for three weeks. Locals suspect that the cygnets did not survive the early Spring due to heavy rain and strong winds. Passersby were friendly to me, and that is why I will be back in the Summer to walk the trail. read more

Avalon Nature Preserve - Swan on the lake - Parks Near Me - Stony Brook, New York

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Avalon Park is a great spot for an easy hike/walk in the woods. I was thoroughly impressed that there's a great (and free!) park like this hidden on Long Island. The website directed us to park our car on the street, and we luckily found a spot right away. The boardwalk entrance is currently closed for construction so we just followed a line of people walking towards Rhododendron Drive, and eventually found the entrance to the red trail. This did involve a bit of walking on a trafficked road, so just be careful and look out for cars. The section that we walked around was more forest than park. We mostly stayed on the yellow trail, which was doable for my parents who are not the most exercise-inclined people. There were some gentle slopes and stairs here and there, but overall easy enough for me to walk in sandals (which I definitely do not recommend - my feet kicked up a ton of dirt). It was surprisingly quite secluded for most of our hour-long walk, although many of the people we did see were not wearing masks. I'd love to come back here once the boardwalk construction is done, and in the fall for the foliage. read more

Avalon Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Stony Brook, New York

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Avalon Park & Preserve is magical! I am visiting the area for 9/11, so stress levels are high. This was the perfect place to go in Stony Brook, New York to rejuvenate and be at one with nature. The thoughtfulness and design of the preserve made me feel so peaceful and happy. Parking is easy and free, and entrance is also no charge, so it is accessible to everyone. The trails are well marked and maintained. There is signage warning of ticks, and we stayed on the main trails where we enjoyed almost 4 miles of hiking including a little extra going to the farm stand at Birdsfoot Farm that is owned by Avalon. The place feels safe as there are cameras and nowhere is so remote that you are completely on your own. There was at least one water fountain there, and it included a bowl for pets. We saw several sweet dogs along the trail, as well as kind humans including some friendly park people who do such a beautiful job making sure the park is safe and well-maintained. It was not at all crowded, and the park is spacious. We also saw a beautiful young deer who seemed to know that we meant no harm, so she just stood there and looked at us as we looked at her. It was a very special moment! Some of my favorite elements of the park were the Cartas al Cielo sphere and the Labyrinth. At the Cartas al Cielo, there are postcards where you can write something to those who have passed. The sign says, "Visitors are encouraged to send messages beyond our earthly realm, mailing them through this poetic vessel." At the Labyrinth, there is a beautiful tribute to Paul Simons, dedicating the park and preserve to his memory, and a spectacular sculpture by Jod Laurie. Every part of the preserve was wonderful. There is a duck pond and a frog pond near the entrance, a hilltop meadow at the top, and lots of cool things in between. There are no restrooms at the preserve, no picnic areas, and no trash cans. Everything is carry in and carry out. Their motto is Protect, Restore, Inspire...and that is absolutely perfect! I highly recommend this lovely sanctuary. read more

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This spot really was one of my favorites that I visited this summer. It was very quiet for being next to the road and not very crowded at all. Aleah and I had such a nice time painting here right by the water and just enjoying the scenery. read more

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So I was by myself on a workday in Long Island and a friend of mine recommended this place. My cousin went up taking off from work and she came with me. I loved the labyrinth. It's not what you would typically think of a labyrinth but more of stones on the ground that you have to stare at and follow them because if you don't keep your eyes on them you'll miss a turn but I found it quite soothing. There was a woman who was riding around on a bicycle and I asked her if there was anything that we needed to know or that we needed to see As we have never been there before. She had a map and she showed us where to go for a globe that you could send letters to heaven. The fact that I was in New York for a celebration of life made this a perfect coincidence. There was one area with a bunch of big rocks that someone was getting a massage in that area of the park. It definitely is a great place for meditation. I wish things were marked a little better because we did wind up out on the road and I have Verizon wireless and I had no service and we walked the wrong way on the road for quite a while. Other than that it's a great place to go. read more

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You can tell this park is well maintained just by the entrance. There's a duck pond and grist mill, and you can just park on the street. No entrance fee, which is great. The front half of the park is cement walkways and small ponds, several benches and overlooks to view the wildlife on the main pond. Swans, wood ducks, cormorants, mallards, gulls. Interestingly, if you want to explore the whole park, you have to cross streets and open manual wooden gates (?) to get to the other areas. It's much larger than it looks, and the hikes are graduated up and down so it's not super physically challenging. Lots of things to see - statues, fields, sculptures. I loved that the woods were singing with birds. Cardinals, wrens, robins. Felt very alive. We even saw a large red tailed hawk having lunch. Loads of other people on the trails so it didn't feel dangerous or desolate. All in all, very nice and well maintained park. Interesting things to see and feels safe. Great hike and something for everyone. Plus, once you're done with your hike, you can walk across the street to shop or eat in the historic village center. read more

I visit this park often and never get tired of it. There's always something new to see. There is limited street parking, but you can also park across the street at the shops. read more

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We've been to this park numerous times, and it's still one of our favorites. Well maintained, gorgeous setting, mostly easy but fun hikes. Feeding the ducks, geese, swans is a lot of fun for the kids. Afterwards, stony brook village shops are nearby with some good cafes and restaurants to refuel. read more

Whether you're looking for a place to share with a friend and/or family member, or simply take a walk/hike in solitude, Avalon is THE place to visit. As a lifelong learner and lover of nature and beauty, I have watched Avalon continually transform over the many many years I have frequented this uniquely, special place. With its own ongoing transformation, I have witnessed not only mine, but my family's transformation as well. I have had the absolute pleasure of bringing my loved ones (including my pet dog) here, where the park & preserve has given us so many memories and much joy. With it, we grew too! My now-grown children watched wondered and learned in Avalon with its many diverse trails, the fro pond, the labyrinth, the wild flower field, the Cartas Al Cielo sculpture and so much more. Because of it, we have a greater appreciation & love for nature and it's endless facets of beauty. EVERYONE should experience Avalon!! It should be on everyone's bucket list of places to visit!!! read more

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You can put a fence around a patch of grass and call it a park, but is it really a park? Eh, let's talk about some real parks okay? Like Avalon. Now that is a park. A few weeks ago my girlfriend and I wanted to get a little more in touch with nature and so she took to Yelp to find a spot that wasn't a patch of grass. We wanted some trails, some fields, and perhaps a little water to round out the earthy experience. Avalon looked like a winner (and it was). To start, the parking seemed a little sporadic, but we snagged a spot quickly (plus it's a park so I'm not gonna really factor parking in too much). From there you'll first get the water. A nice lake area with scenic spots to stop and sit. Keep it going and you'll enter through Avalon's gate, like you're in the Secret Garden or something. Not that you can totally count theming in a natural spot, but this kind of plays into that realm. The trails then lead up and all over with plenty of views of the aforementioned water as well as scenic wood areas, flat grassy land, a silver orb that looks like something from The Terminator (check it out, it's anything but) and the labyrinth. That last one sounded cool when I first read it on the park map, though it wasn't as elaborate as you might think...unless we need the ghost of David Bowie to make things work. Overall, Avalon Park is a real, true park that gives you just about everything you want. There are some deep trails that my girlfriend and I want to check out in the future (a bit cold that day and a bathroom was semi-needed) so we'll be back. And with said next trip it might solidify that final star, but for now just know it's a spot way better than any fenced in grass, that's for sure. read more

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Very pretty. I couldn't find the trails or a sign to where they are. But got a lot of great pics of the mill pond. read more

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My kids and I have been coming to this park it seems like forever. When it was finished and they built the paths, the labyrinth as well as the decking, it feels like your hiking in upstate New York. Question, who lives in that beautiful house across from the Grist Mill? Imagine waking up and bringing a cuppa kawfee on your deck and seeing people snapping pictures? The foot traffic after a few years would make me a little nutty. When the weather changes and the leaves turn golden brown it is truly spectacular. This isn't a small park, you can spend a few hours walking and exploring. And its dog friendly! My dog loves to trout up the steps. There are lots of ducks to feed, bring your babies, bring your family but come to Avalon Park and explore the area. There are lots of restaurants and shopping to see across the street. Its a nice family friendly town that should be explored. I am the Yelp Duke of Avalon Park & Preserve and I approve of this message read more

In Celtic lore, "Avalon" is known to be a bit of a paradise. Well, the same goes for Stonybrook's Avalon park. If you happen to be driving by, you may see the pond and not realize there's actually quite the sanctuary amidst the woods. This place is perfect when you want to go for a quick walk with the pup, a longer hike through a couple miles of trails, or just a magical little jaunt through this awesome wildlife preserve. A few entrances will lead you in, starting your journey to various spots such as the field of milkweed which always attracts some butterflies, or try to find the labyrinth; no matter what you do you'll find something interesting. You've gotta check it out. Great during the spring and fall! Best of all, it's free to explore. read more

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Favorite park on the island! Always a great trip. Very clean & well kept! They have friendly security walking around as well as a number to call if you need help. I usually see some turtles, fish, chipmunks and deer every trip. Worth the trip! read more

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Lovely park, very nicely built up esp near the pond. The trails further out are not as developed, which is a good thing. Don't let the crowds near the pond scare you off, keep hiking, the crowds thin the further you go. Keep in mind that this is Stony Brook, so good-weather weekends are going to have a lot of people, with all of their cars. If parking can't be found on the east side of the park, there are other small lots around the park perimeter that you can use. Some say that the trails are closed for construction, that may be true, work is being done in phases. But we were there in I think April (or maybe May?) and most of the trails were open. Definitely worth a stretch of the legs if you're in the area, just be patient because it can get crowded. read more

I really like this park. It has nice walking trails and lots of wildlife to see. It was recently remodeled as well.

Fun for people and dogs! Surprisingly few bugs. Everyone seems to be appropriately social distancing and such.

This is a BEAUTIFUL park. Unfortunately due to storm damage we were only able to enjoy one side of the park. Will DEFINITELY return for the full experience. Had a GREAT time with the family hiking and walking the trails. read more

Avalon Nature Preserve - Trails - Parks Near Me - Stony Brook, New York

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After a recent visit to Long Island to visit my daughter, we stopped by this lovely park/preserve on our way to Port Jefferson. Port Jefferson to me was nice, but Avalon Park & Preserve really stole my heart. It was peaceful, beautiful, scenic, relaxing, and one of the many things to make me think, "I really wish I could live here." Here, meaning, New York, Long Island, the North Shore. There is such beauty up on the North Shore. Fell in love with it. I'm just sorry I didn't explore more of Avalon when I was there. It is a nice home for all the "duckies," and I would really love to see the reflection of the changing Autumn leaves on the trees outlining the pond. Wow ! Heaven on earth. read more

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These park has some nice hidden trails! If you start at Grist duck pond entrance, you have walk up the wood plank trail along pond and hit the Red Trail. Don't turn back when you see the gates, you can cross them. Posterior to the Grist mill entrance, there are maps showing all the trails (yellow, blue, green). The yellow is the longest at 2.2 miles. Blue is approximately 0.8 miles. Highly recommend these trails for some light hiking or trail running. The trails are entertaining enough to double back around. If you do the yellow 2x and start at the Grist mill, it's about 6.0 miles of exercise. read more

Nice park for hiking. Trails well marked with colored direction arrows on posts along the way. Was able to complete a quick circuit on the yellow trail on first try. Would come back some other time to do it again. Small lots for parking, so it would make sense that it'd get crowded on good day. Not that many people on the trail, casual walkers, dog walkers, couples on stroll etc. Most importantly, its all nature and its free. read more

This park is huge & beautiful! We love this place! Great place to hike, jog, walk your dog, hang out with friends, or do a romantic walk with your date. The entrance can be pretty hard to find if this is your first time visiting the park. When you're driving on a Main street going north, you'll see a lake on your left, that's the park. Just park your car, walk to the Harbor Rd along the side of the lake & you'll find the entrance there. Definitely worth visiting even if you're not from the area. Wish there's a public restroom inside... We'll definitely go back! read more

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I really enjoy going to this location and I'm happy to have found this place! I enjoy the lake with all of the animals and I love how they have trails with all cool spots to hangout and take pictures:) this nature walk a very nice and will definitely keep coming here. read more

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Whether you feel like taking a snow laden hike in the middle of winter, taking in the aromas of the wild flower fields during the summer, enjoying the cool of sunset, or just taking a breather from work, Avalon Park & Preserve does it all. It is rather easy to get lost, but I personally do not mind that, esp. if I am there to unwind. But enough of this: I'll let my pictures do the talking. read more

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It's the place for a walks in nature period trails ca be a little uneven but that's okay. Better than Central Park by far. Hear yourself think. Heat yourself be quiet. Get away from Covid. read more

It's a pretty well kept park great for pictures. Enjoy the visit and go back again as the seasons change.

Very nice park. Great for a nice stroll, it's a large enough path that really helps increase your steps for the day. Always lots of activity

A beautiful place with lots of trails. We walked 5 miles.I loved the flower field that lead to the sphere. Send a message to heaven, I did, it was very emotional. Beware of ticks. I found several ticks on my dog after we got home. read more

Avalon Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Stony Brook, New York

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This is a great place to breath and take in the fresh air. So many wonderful trails and natural beauty and animals.

This spot has been a favorite of mine for years. The park is a really beautifully kept spot to walk, hike, run, and even bring your dog. There have been various installations at this park over the years and I feel fortunate to live so close to such a cool outdoor spot. The wildlife here is amazing, and the more recent time I visited I spotted two deer pretty close. The parking situation can be iffy if it's crowded, but usually you can find a spot on the street. Inside the park they have a water fountain and a lowered fountain for pets. One thing I will recommend is to bring bug spray, especially if you're going hiking in the preserve. The bugs can be a bit overwhelming! Definitely visit this spot if you've never been before, it's totally worth your while. read more

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Beautiful place for a serene hike! They have a spot where you can write a letter to those who are in heaven, and a beautiful field of flowers you walk thru on one trail. Highly recommend for the outdoor enthusiast, nature lover, or for those who just want to get some air and try somewhere new. I would not take very young children unless they are in a carrier, or they don't mind walking. It is not very stroller friendly in some spots from what I remember the few times going. However, you can take different trails and decide how much walking you would like to do. There is also a nice pond to feed the ducks and swans after if you do take kids. It is also not far from the restaurants and shops in the village area. read more

Avalon Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Stony Brook, New York

Been coming to this peaceful park spanning from Stony Brook to Head of the Harbor for years and it's perfect to come on a hot day. The trees provide plenty of shade and in the fall, autumn flowers add to the landscape. Unfortunately, the rhododendrons in "rhododendron valley" haven't bloomed once in nine years. Also, it's pretty hilly and you'll need to watch your step due to exposed tree roots on the trails. Be extra careful of poison ivy as well. If you like peace and quiet, this is a great park to visit. read more

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Avalon park is such a beautiful place and is a nice place to bring your kids or go on a date. They have a nice trail to walk/run and ends up leading a woodsy area if you want a longer hike. Be mindful not to get lost in the woods as there aren't lots of signs to designate the trail. This is also a pretty place to take pictures. read more

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One-of-a-kind wildlife preserve on Long Island. Acres and acres of some of the most pricey real estate preserved for nature lovers and active people. If you haven't entered thru the duck pond entrance (across from the Grist Mill) you should definitely check it out, but for the true nature lover/ hiker make the left on Harbor Rd and continue about .3 miles, turn left onto Shep Jones Lane which is a rutted dirt road; there is a parking area about 100 yards from the turn. From this parking area you can explore the entire preserve with over two miles of trails, many hills, various terrains, meadows and old growth trees. Hiking can get a little harrowing in the fall due to heavy leaf cover. No charge. A magnificent place. read more

Avalon Nature Preserve - park map - Parks Near Me - Stony Brook, New York

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