D & H Canal Trail - Bashakill Wildlife Management Area

The Bashakill Wildlife Management Area is located on the Orange County-Sullivan County border just south of Wurtsboro, New York. It consists of over 3,000 acres of wetlands and uplands which were acquired by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) with funds from the 1972 Bond Act. The landscape offers scenic views and an unmatched natural setting for hiking, canoeing, birdwatching and fishing. Above all, it is a place to breathe deeply, to feel the beauty and peace of a unique, unspoiled place in nature. Within the boundaries of Bashakill you'll come across remnants of the old Delaware and Hudson Canal and New York, Ontario and Western Railway's Port Jervis to Kingston branch. The former towpath is suitable for walking, cross country skiing, and bicycling. However, the old railroad bed has not been graded nor have railroad ties been removed. Therefore, some walkers and bicyclists might have difficulty negotiating much of it. Operating any motorized vehicle within the Wildlife Management Area except on access roads and designated parking areas is prohibited. The NY State Department of Environmental Conservation may eject any person from the Wildlife Management Area for behavior that endangers the general safety of persons on the Area or interferes with the management and use of the Area's natural resources. Printed information about the Area may be obtained from the NY State DEC Bureau of Wildlife, Region 3 Office, 21 South Putt Corners, New Paltz, NY 12561.

Take NY State Route 17/Interstate Route 86 east or west to exit 113. Take Route 209 traveling south (in the direction of Port Jervis). When you see the Moose Lodge on your left, make a left onto Haven Road. There are some parking spots here, and you can hike along the Basha Kill in both directions. Or, continue on Haven Road until it intersects with South Road. Make a right turn onto South Road and proceed to the first of four boat launch areas.