ANANDAKRISHNAN N

4 out of 5 stars★★★★☆

Had a nice experience visiting this place. Unfortunately, the live bear wasn't there because they told us it had passed away, but they mentioned they're planning to bring another one this year. Even so, it was interesting to see and even touch a real stuffed bear skin, which was a unique experience. The staff were incredibly kind, polite, and friendly, making us feel very welcome. Overall, it was a good visit, and I'd love to come back once the new bear arrives.

Kaiyuan Xu

5 out of 5 stars★★★★★

Sadly a few animals passed away in 2025 and 2026, including the bears and the coyote, but don’t get too disappointed, the zoo and the museums are still really cool for anyone to stop by if you are near. As its name suggests, think about it as a hiking trail with museums and animals spreading out along the way. It was a fun self guided 1-hour tour for our family. Paved trails throughout the area, very much doable with a baby stroller. Will visit again if we go up north.

Judy Cheung

5 out of 5 stars★★★★★

The little museums on the trailside exceeded my expectations. I thought there would not be too much to see but there was enough to see the zoo was small and the animals are limited but still very nicely arranged with a hilly trail. It's clean and nice there. My kid had a great time running up and down the hill and seeing all the animals.

Sian

4 out of 5 stars★★★★☆

The zoo is free to enter with a recommended donation. The staff are very friendly and knowledgable. I’d definitely recommend visiting during summer months as many of the larger sections (reptiles, fish, etc.) were closed during the winter months. At this time there are also no bears or coyotes at the zoo for visitors to see. I’d definitely recommend going up the geology trail for amazing views of the river and bridge!

William Pataky

5 out of 5 stars★★★★★

This is great educational experience. First you are walking on the Appalachian trail which is cool just by itself. Then you have the breathtaking views of the river and the Hudson Highlands. The animals are mostly rescues that likely would have been out down of they werent able to live at Trailside so I thank them for the work they do. I like that the animals that you can see are native to the area which makes it a more local experience. The museum buildings are very cool and very educational. The west redoubt of fort Clinton is amazing to see. At that moment you are standing on a piece of history where men taught and died for this country to be free from the tyranny of England. The plantings are beautiful and the zoo is constantly being updated. There is only a suggested entry fee which is also amazing. This place is a hidden gem and is worth the visit.