The Peach Lake Natural Area consists of three connecting preserves and a scenic trail system.
Paul Fitchen Preserve
The Paul Fitchen Preserve is part of the Peach Lake Natural Area. Acquired from Putnam County, 1990. Consists of 48 acres of wooded wetland, low slope, and wet meadow communities.
From Brewster, take Rt. 6 east and turn right onto Starr Ridge Rd. Go 0.5 mile and turn left onto Cobb Rd. Go 0.2 mile, see Paul Fitchen sign on right.
Birdwood Preserve
The Birdwood Preserve is part of the Peach Lake Natural Area. The property was a gift of the National Audubon Society in 1986. It comprises 31 acres of woods and wetlands.
From Brewster, take Rt. 6 east and turn right onto Starr Ridge Rd. Go 0.5 mile and turn left onto Cobb Rd. Go 0.2 mile, see the Paul Fitchen Preserve sign on right. Birdwood is 0.2 mile further on right. Cedar Swamp is accessed via a bridge in Birdwood.
Cedar Swamp Preserve
Acquired from Putnam County. Its 59 acres include a fern glen which is home to a variety of ferns, mosses, and sweet pepper bush. From Brewster, take Rt. 6 east and turn right onto Starr Ridge Rd. Go 0.5 mile and turn left onto Cobb Rd. Go 0.2 mile, see Paul Fitchen sign on right. Birdwood is 0.2 mile further on right. Cedar Swamp Preserve is accessed via a bridge in Birdwood Preserve.