Essex Quarry Trail and Nature Preserve

This network of hikes, part of the Champlain Area Trails network, provides historically and ecologically interesting walks to and around Essex Quarry. This old quarry, part of the overall 35-acre Essex Quarry Preserve, provided the materials necessary to construct not only locally-important buildings, but also major landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 1.5 total miles of trail, with multiple loop options
• Elevation gain: Varies

Hiking at Essex Quarry

Distances and elevation gains vary based on which out-and-back or loop you choose. A kiosk with a map at the trailhead can help you determine which short loops you want to connect.

The Bluestone Trail (blue markers) takes you to and circles the quarry. The Red Trail is a woodland loop trail beginning on the west side of the quarry. It leads to and then makes a circle which takes you back to the Bluestone Trail or you can branch off it and get on the Green Trail or Yellow Trail. The Green Trail leads you through the forest to and along the northern property line where you’ll look out over farmland and end up back on the Bluestone Trail. The Yellow Trail is a short loop trail that spurs off the Green Trail. It goes through the forest and along an old stone wall.

Essex Quarry in the winter

This network is open in the winter, but hikers should be careful around the edges of the quarry and around frozen water. Be prepared for all winter conditions.

How to get there

Essex Quarry Nature Preserve is 1/2 mile south of the blinking light in Essex. Park in the preserve or better yet, park at the Essex Ferry and go on a Bluestone Tour of Essex on your way to the quarry.