Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Saw Mill River Reservation is a linear park and green space that follows the course of the Saw Mill River through a portion of Westchester County, New York. The reservation serves as an important urban natural area that combines ecological restoration, recreation, and historical preservation along the river corridor. The park features walking and biking trails that provide scenic views of the Saw Mill River, one of the first urban river daylighting projects in the United States, where portions of the river were diverted from underground culverts back to an open river channel. This restoration has enhanced habitat for aquatic species and improved water quality while revitalizing the riverfront landscape for public use. The area includes wetlands, riparian hardwood forests, and native plant communities supporting local wildlife such as herons, kingfishers, and small mammals. Recreational activities focus predominantly on walking, jogging, birdwatching, and fishing. The reservation also highlights the region’s industrial and environmental history, particularly showcasing efforts to reconcile urban development with natural river ecosystems. Its proximity to residential and commercial neighborhoods makes it a valuable green space for local communities seeking outdoor recreation. Notable features include the river’s daylighted sections, pedestrian bridges, and educational signage about the river’s restoration. Saw Mill River Reservation offers a relatively calm but engaging outdoor experience, combining urban accessibility with ecological interest.
