Iona Island Component Hudson River National Estuarine Research R

Even from 202, this outcropping is a sight to behold. Nestled in the valley, Iona Island preserves the land's natural beauty as well as diverse ecology. I drove in (when the road was not flooded) to see a thorough posterboard of the wildlife and diversity in the preserve. Railroad tracks run under an old Naval ammunition center (closed to the public. I didn't do a ton of exploring, but the map indicated there are some trails to hike around the island. A huge number of songbirds and hunting birds (including the bald eagle!) nest and make homes here. I wish I could share sounds as well as pictures, as there was an orchestra of birdsong the whole time I was there.

Beautiful little preserve...I recommend you come with little expectation and just enjoy the serenity and the birds.

Hh