The Southern portion of the Neck River Uplands, connects to the Northern portion of the Neck River Uplands.
The southern portion of the Neck River Uplands provide a shorter hiking route, but still the same difficulty level. This trail passes through a portion of wetlands via the trail and short bridge. Lookout of dens made out of rock outcroppings and those that dwell in the tiny homes. Tall tulip trees are mixed in the hardwood varieties in the forest and bloom beautiful yellow flowers in the springtime.
This 115 acre preserve lies in the geographic center of Madison, immediately west of Route 79. It contains two parcels, one lying north of Route 80, the other, south. The topography of the Uplands is determined by undulating bedrock, which forms very close ridges and plateaus oriented north-south.
These features influence the flora and fauna of these areas. The dry plateaus and rocky ridges have thin soil, so rainwater quickly drains downhill, leaving little moisture behind. But slow-growing chestnut and red oaks, along with some beech and red maples, create a lacy canopy overhead. The fruits of these trees offer a high calorie source of fats and carbohydrates that help deer put on weight as colder weather approaches.
Turkeys, chipmunks, squirrels and white-footed mice, who eat the acorns, and hickory and beech nuts, dropped from above, have been seen here. However, these birds and rodents fall prey to coyotes and their smaller relatives, the foxes. Numerous rocky overhangs offer ideal den sites for these canines.
Trees on the plateaus suffer from exposure and the dry conditions. The cavities created by the death of these trees for birds such as woodpeckers and chickadees. Fallen trees and logs provide dens for opossums and raccoons. Just below the trees, mountain laurel, witch hazel, and highbush blueberries make the most of any remaining moisture.
These inclines limit shrub growth and result in more open areas. The cracks and crevices of many rocky outcrops offer shelter for bats and snakes. Increased moisture gives rise to a greater variety of trees. The slopes afford them some protection, so fewer snags develop.
The recommended access to this parcel, is on the northern side of Opening Hill just west of Route 79. From the Route 80 circle take the exit south, towards Madison center. Past the church, turn right onto Opening Hill Road. The trail is located at 830 Opening Hill Road. Where the road bends left, parking and trail access is on your right.
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