BREIA (Black River Environmental Improvement Association)

Photo by Jess Grant

The Adirondack Land Trust and Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust each hold conservation easements at BREIA to ensure perpetual conservation of its beautiful forests and streams. With over 30 miles of maintained trails (many of which are accessible to people with limited mobility), this is one of the best places in New York State for cross-country skiing as well as hiking, mountain biking and snowshoeing.

The property also boasts gorgeous warming huts for skiers and snowshoers, and educational campuses for its sister organization, the Black River Outdoor Education Program. Through this program, kids learn about biology, ecology, geology and history in outdoor settings, gear provided. To top it off, you can visit the Potato Hill Farm to meet the alpacas, Welsh black mountain sheep, goats and donkeys, and (depending on the time of year) you can take a carriage or sleigh ride. All of BREIA’s amenities are available free of charge, thanks to the generosity of the owner.