The Great Swamp

The Great Swamp Collection

The Great Swamp is one of the largest freshwater wetlands in New York State, dividing in Pawling into a north and south flow. It's beautiful, diverse and serene, despite it's proximity to road and rail. The easiest accessible area is a 3/4 mile long boardwalk described as a 1/3 mile viaduct over the Swamp River, located by the Appalachian Trail railway halt just off Route 22 to the north of Pawling. It’s a very special place and I’ve spent many a morning there just listening and looking as the world comes alive. When you leave the road behind and cross over the railway tracks onto the Boardwalk you are quickly swallowed up by the Swamp, becoming immersed in the sights and sounds of another world. It's so close but can feel so remote, until the whistle of a train pulls you back to reality!

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