In the Dutchess County Spotlight

Become part of an exciting regional event -- the Hudson River Valley Ramble. Now in its 13th year, the Ramble is host to a variety of walks, hikes, paddles, biking tours and other events spanning 13 counties. The Ramble showcases the scenic, natural, historic and cultural resources of the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area. Events are led by naturalists, ecologists, historians, geologists and trained volunteers. This year, the Ramble is held on four weekends: September 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30, 2012. More than 160 events are hosted by 150 organizations throughout the Hudson River Valley. Last year more than 120,000 people participated in Ramble events.

Staatsburgh State Historic Site offers a landscape tour entitled, What You See and What You Don't See on September 9 and 16, both at 1pm. In a leisurely hour and a half stroll around the estate's grounds, the guide points out how Staatsburgh's landscape architect designed the landscape at the country home of Ogden and Ruth Livingston Mills on the Hudson River: to showcase the good life in the Gilded Age, while deliberately concealing the technology and labor that made a turn-of-the-century estate run. The walk features comparisons of the current landscape with historic photos of the grounds and views of the Hudson River and Esopus Meadows lighthouse. Staatsburgh is located on Old Post Road, off of Route 9 in the hamlet of Staatsburg. For information call (845) 889-8851 x 338.

The Vanderbilt's Hyde Park Landscape Walk and Free Concert is set for 9/23.During this 90-minute one mile hike, a ranger chronicles 200 hundred years of landscape history at the Vanderbilts' Hyde Park country place. Learn about earlier estate owners and future plans. Frederick W Vanderbilt Garden Association volunteers conduct a walking tour of the formal garden. The group Mamalama performs in the gardens when the tour concludes.

History buffs won't want to miss the re-enactors at the Revolutionary War Encampment Weekend 9/15-16 at Fishkill's Van Wyck Homestead Museum, which served as Officers Headquarters during the American Revolution. The homestead museum offer tours and demonstrations of Colonial crafts on the other September weekend as well.

Norrie Point Kayak Tour follows the Hudson River from Norrie Point to visit nearby spots such as Esopus Island, Bard Rock and Black Creek Preserve on 9/8 and 9/9 at 11:30am. Perfect for beginners, this trip includes use of a sea kayak and all gear. Experienced guides help participants improve their paddling skills. The route features wildlife, scenic vistas and historic sites along the way.

Paddlers also get out on the Hudson River with the Denning's Point Paddle. In 1781, with the Revolution raging, Alexander Hamilton stayed on Denning's Point and formed his vision for our future as an independent nation. His "Federalist Papers" became part of the foundation of our nation. Today it's part of the Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries.

Cyclists will enjoy the Historic Bicycle Tour of Olde Fishkill and the Farmland Cycling Tour

Serious hikers will be rewarded with spectacular view on the The Historic Mt Beacon Fire Tower Hike on 9/15-16.

Other events include fairs such as the 12th Annual Tivoli Street Painting Festival on 9/29-30 and One River, Many Streams Folk Festival in Beacon on 9/30.

Experience Hudson River history as Bannerman's Island hosts a slew of events full of adventure. Every September weekend (except Sunday, 9/16) you can board the Pollepel for a short boat ride for the Bannerman Island Cruise and Walking Tour. Upon reaching the island you're given an escorted tour of the island. You'll hear about the island's history and have a chance to take photographs. Sadly, during the winter of 2010, the southeasterly corner of Bannerman's Arsenal collapsed; to support the preservation efforts, half of your ticket purchase goes to the Bannerman Castle Trust!

Is paddling your thing? The Bannerman Castle Hard Hat Tour takes place 9/8 and 9/23 at 10am. Receive an exclusive behind-the-ruins kayak and walking tour; this guided, hard-hat visit offers a full narrated history. Proceeds go toward the preservation of this unique landmark.

Enjoy the Bannerman Island Third Sunday Music Lunch Box Self Guided Tour on 9/16. This includes a complementary box lunch prepared by one of the area's finest restaurants, and a concert. Bannerman Castle Trust historians are on hand to answer questions. Your adventure includes transportation on Hudson River Adventures' Pollepel,and a film featuring stage and screen actress, Jane Alexander.

Even pets can Ramble at the Mutt Strut Across the Catwalk tm on 9/15, at a fashion forward fundraiser to benefit the Dutchess County Arts Council and the Dutchess County SPCA, who've teamed up to present the best in canine fashions and pet accessories!

More than 30 events are scheduled in Dutchess County. The Ramble brochure is a comprehensive regional recreational guide and can be used as a reference throughout the year. Copies of the program guide are in the August issue of Chronogram magazine and at tourist destinations throughout the region. Program guides may also be downloaded from the website. For a complete listing of events, visit www.hudsonrivervalleyramble.com. See you on the trail!