Public Access to the Wilbur Uplands

We’re taking big steps toward public access to the Wilbur Uplands. 

Donate to help us reach the peak! 

In 2023, we built a trailhead parking lot off Wilbur Ave and the first phase of a trail system. Thanks to donations for this first phase, Tahawus Trails with some volunteer support, built two trails that allow visitors to get to the quarry (including one that meets USFS accessibility guidelines), where we built a stage / shelter that we will also harvest rainwater off of (see separate campaign for this project: https://donorbox.org/set-the-stage-for-public-access-to-the-wilbur-preserve). NOW, we need to raise an additional $30,000 to $40,000 to continue the trail construction in 2024, allowing visitors to continue from the quarry community space immersed in nature, past unique geological features (Salamander Cave), and up to an inspiring lookout over the Wilbur uplands and the Twaalfskill and Rondout Creeks. 

In order to build the next sections of trail in 2024, we need to raise $30,000 from the community by the end of the summer. Please help us make this unique preserve and community gathering space accessible to the public! Donations will be matched dollar for dollar by a Hudson River Valley Greenway Conservancy Trail grant that we received this summer.

The entire trail network that we hope to build with your support

photo taken from trail built in first phase that meets USFS accessibility guidelines, showing lower section of gradual trail and driveway/parking 

KLT land stewards carry lumber up the more direct trail route from the first phase
Members of Tahawus Trails building stone steps, the beginning of the second phase of trailwork that we aim to extend with your support

With your support, we'll be able to build a safe trail to this viewpoint overlooking Red Fox RavineCurrently, only the most intrepid and physically able community members can get to the viewpoint (which is ONLY allowed with close supervision during organized events with the KLT)

Related Press:

1) August 3rd, 2022 (Hudson Valley One).  “Kingston Land Trust launches fundraising campaign for “teeny Yosemite” 

2) May 25, 2021 (The River Newsroom). Kingston Hamlet Offers Test Case for Conservation Amid Gentrification. Article written by Wilbur resident. 

Articles published in the press following KLT’s initial press release:

3) Nov 13, 2020 (Daily Freeman): Kingston Land Trust buys, protects 6 acres in Wilbur section of city

4) Nov 25, 2020 (Hudson Valley One): Kingston Land Trust protects Wilbur uplands. Written by Rondout (Kingston) resident. 

5) Dec 6th, 2020 (Kingston Wire): Land Trust Protects Wilburs Patch of Eden