The Leon M. Steves Big Bay Preserve in Queensbury gets its name from a bay on the Hudson River.

Cooper the dog enjoys the pine needle-strewn trail at Big Bay Preserve.

Cindi and I have been friends since middle school, which means we have been getting outdoors together for close to 40 years. We’ve climbed mountains, paddled kayaks and explored countless nature trails together.

Cindi moved from Halfmoon to Glens Falls several years ago, a relocation that made our local get-togethers a little more challenging. Sometimes we meet in the middle for lunch or to explore a trail we’ve hiked before — Saratoga Spa State Park is a favorite. Other times, I drive farther up the Northway and Cindi shows me a trail she’s discovered since her move.

Both preserves are open dawn to dusk and permit non-motorized recreation, including mountain biking. Dogs must be leashed.

Leon M. Steves Big Bay Preserve

Where: Division Road, Queensbury

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