3.4
(21)
31
hikers
00:59
3.85km
10m
Hiking
Explore the Tackapausha Preserve Trail, an easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) hike that takes about 58 minutes to complete. You'll gain only 33 feet (10 metres) in elevation, making it a gentle walk through nature. The path winds through an 84-acre sanctuary, often feeling like a tunnel of trees. Look for…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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653 m
Tackapausha Pond
Lake
2.30 km
Tackapausha Preserve
Nature Reserve
3.85 km
End point
Place Of Worship
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.83 km
753 m
188 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
1.92 km
852 m
843 m
123 m
122 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 27 May
26°C
16°C
53 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Parking is generally available near the Tackapausha Museum and Preserve, located at 2225 Washington Avenue. This provides convenient access to the trail system.
No, pets are not permitted on the trails within the Tackapausha Preserve. Please leave your furry friends at home when visiting.
Fall is particularly recommended for hiking the preserve due to the beautiful colors of the leaves. However, the trails offer a pleasant experience in spring and summer, and are even open for cross-country skiing in winter.
There is no indication of required permits or entrance fees for accessing the trails at Tackapausha Preserve. It is generally open to the public.
The trail meanders through a sanctuary of oak forests, ponds, and streams. Paths are marked with white blazes and are generally considered easy to moderate, with no significant elevation changes. You'll find dense growth creating 'tunnels of trees' in some areas, and the southern section features a swamp and Atlantic white cedar trees.
Tackapausha Preserve is a renowned spot for birdwatching, home to over 170 bird species, including ruby-throated hummingbirds. You might also spot various waterfowl and amphibians around the secluded 'Duck Pond' in the central section.
Yes, the trails are generally considered easy to moderate, making them suitable for nature walks and exploration by various fitness levels, including families. The Tackapausha Museum also offers interactive activities for children.
Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover a unique graffiti-filled underpass of the Long Island Rail Road and a train tunnel in the central section. The preserve also boasts the largest stand of Atlantic white cedar trees in Nassau County.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Northern Section, Southern Section, and Central Section trails within the preserve.
Hikers can typically complete a loop on the trails in about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on their pace and how much they explore.
Yes, the 3,000-square-foot Tackapausha Museum is a significant attraction within the preserve. It offers displays on local ecology, animal exhibits, and interactive activities for children, making it a great addition to your visit.