Twin Lakes Preserve
Location:
Wantagh, NY
Size:
58 acres
Date
of hike: Oct. 8, 2017
Twin Lakes Preserve is a small parcel of land that features five freshwater ponds surrounded by hiking trails just north of Sunrise Highway (NY Route 27). I passed the preserve when I went to a recent concert at Mulcahy's Pub and Concert Hall,
which is just a few blocks away. Having hiked a lot of trails lately in
Suffolk County, it felt like the right time for an afternoon in Nassau County. And, as someone who likes lakes, it's hard to pass up a preserve called Twin
Lakes.
Prior to hiking, I familiarized myself with the history and habitats of Twin Lakes Preserve. The property, which is under the jurisdiction of the Town of Hempstead, features extensive sections of freshwater wetlands and transitional stage woodlands along with the five ponds. "Twin Lakes Preserve is dedicated to the understanding, preservation and the enjoyment of Long Island's natural environment," the town's website said. "In the picturesque and serene setting, area residents can partake in outdoor activities such as birdwatching, sports fishing, or hiking along a trail system." As for the lake's names, the northernmost body of water by the elementary school is Forest Lake, the southernmost body of water by Sunrise Highway is Wantagh Pond, and the widest body of water just north of Park Avenue is Seaman Pond, according to Google Maps. The waterway to the west of the latter pond is Bellmore Creek. The website LongIsland.com also said there is a 10-acre "Lower Twin Lake" and a 20-acre "Upper Twin Lake," but it was unclear which are those lakes. Lastly, no dogs are allowed.
The preserve's most convenient entrance is located on Park Avenue between Old Mill Road and Wantagh State Parkway. There are also numerous access points along its perimeter, including one behind Forest Lake Elementary School on Beltagh Avenue. I parked along Park Avenue, which is a two-lane road that goes between Seaman and Wantagh ponds, according to Google Maps. I began by tackling the small section south of Park Avenue, which features a white-blazed trail that surrounds Wantagh Pond, and then the trail that surrounds Seamans Pond on the north side of Park Avenue. The preserve had frequent openings in the trees that offered killer views of the lakes and ponds, as well some cool concrete structures and bridges. I didn't see a trail map at any of the entrances, but the preserve has a 1.5-mile loop path that's good for all skill levels, according to AllTrails.com.
The hike's highlights for me were the views of the lakes (or ponds) and the diverse wildlife, including a timid turtle that tucked itself inside its shell as I tried to talk to him. I also saw swans, egrets and mallard ducks, but look for other feathered friends like northern shovlers, green-winged teals or great blue heron. You might also spot ospreys. "The wet woodlands can offer good birding during the fall and spring migrations," stated DiscoverLongIsland.com, with Newsday saying: "The different species of birds in the area make the preserve ideal for birdwatching." As for trees, there's everything from dogwoods to red maples to
sassafras.
Meanwhile, fish consist of bass, bluegills
and bullheads, according to
LongIsland.com.
It's important to note this might not be a quiet hike since the property is bordered by both Sunrise Highway and Wantagh State Parkway. In fact, cars can pass just a few feet from hikers on the opposite side of a fence at times. There are also homes just a stone's throw away on Old Mill Road. To drown out the road noise, I listened to a little progressive metal on my beloved iPod. To my delight, the first tune on shuffle was Dream Theater's "Scarred," which is one of my favorite songs from their 1994 album, Awake. Commence headbanging!
In summary, I'd definitely recommend Twin Lakes Preserve for
a cozy stroll with water views. It's a nice escape from the hustle and bustle that surrounds it. Sure, seclusion and silence
might be lacking due to the proximity of neighboring roadways, but beauty is in abundance. And we all need more beauty in our lives. So, get yours from these five freshwater ponds!
(Updated: Oct. 24, 2020)
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