Landis Arboretum(Esperance, Schoharie County)

Headed out to rural northeastern Schoharie County after work this afternoon to explore the George Landis Arboretum, which was established back in 1951 and offers up to 8 miles of hiking trails open to the public.  There are a variety of trails at the Arboretum, with a little bit of everything mixed in along the way.  There are two visitor parking areas along Lape Road, which is located just north of the village of Esperance and west of the Schoharie Creek.  Interestingly enough, the location of this property is actually very close to a three county convergence, with Montgomery County just north and Scenectady County just east.   

I parked at the lower parking area(Elevation 1090 feet) across from the Visitor Center and set out on a steamy spring day.

 Fragrant lilacs greeted me near the start of the Fred Lape Trail.

Spring blossoms in a clearing.

Plenty of wildflowers along the various trails as well.

There are a lot of trails, ranging in length, with none being terribly long.  With the summer like warmth taking hold, the shaded woodland trails were especially nice today.

There are trails on both the east and west sides of Lape Road, and I wandered around on many of these.  The Pioneer Trail passes through woods and open meadows in the NW corner of the property, with the sounds of bird songs filling the air.

 

This is my second visit here, and like my first time, the highlight of the hike was the expansive view from the clearing by the Great Oak, which was struck by lightning several years ago.  The view stretches far to the east into the rolling hills and nearby farmland.

 There are several small ponds and wetlands to observe wildlife along the way.

A unique feature of the Arboretum is the educational and informative aspect of the hike.  Mailboxes filled with tree, plant and flower identification are found along different sections of the trail(each tied into a specific location as well).

Hard to beat the view from Willow Pond, with a classic red barn making for a handsome backdrop.

With the mid day sun really beating down, I decided to take a quick break on the deck of the Meetinghouse, where you can soak in a nearly 180 degree view from the comfort of an Adirondack chair.

Stone walls and colorful spring blossoms are what the visitor here will find. 

I explored about 2.5 miles of trails and meadows before the hazy sunshine chased me back to my air conditioned car.  A scenic, off the beaten path gem that has much to offer.  I'll be back again, just hopefully under slightly more comfortable conditions.