Fall is in the air, and waiting to be enjoyed at the Town of Thompson Park! Open daily from sunrise to sunset, the Town of Thompson Park is accessible now – and all year long. This autumn, take advantage of this beautiful 173-acre park in your own backyard using these 8 ideas.

As you explore the park, you can thank two important organizations for making many of the amenities available: Sullivan Renaissance and Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County!

Visitors are expected to follow COVID-19 protocol. It is important when enjoying all our park has to offer to maintain proper social distancing and to wear a face covering when social distancing cannot be maintained.

1. Walk (or Run) it Out

At the “heart” of the Town of Thompson Park is the Healthy Heart Trail, complete with two looping paths to choose from. If you’re in shape and ready to tackle a hike with a bit of rocky, hilly terrain, try the 2.5 mile orange loop. Looking for a shorter stroll that consists of relatively flat gravel and mowed trails? You’ll like the easier 1 mile yellow loop. Both trails can be accessed from either the main parking lot or the Orchard Parking area on Town Park Road.

2. Peep the Leaves

Feast your eyes on the vibrant fall colors at the Town of Thompson this fall. The park is home to many tree varieties, ensuring a wide range of autumn shades from yellow to fiery red. You’ll find maple, oak, and birch trees as well as apple trees. Take a seat on one of the many park benches, or go deeper into the woods on the two park trails.

3. Go Fish!

The East Mongaup River winds through the Town of Thompson Park, providing scenic views – and an opportunity to go fishing. Each April, the NYS DEC stocks the river with trout. The East Mongaup River trout season runs from April 1st to October 15th, so get your rods ready and be sure your have your fishing license. Then…go fish! No license, no problem! The Town Clerk’s office is ready to assist you to get your license.

4. New! Bike to the Park and Use the Just-Installed Repair Station

Why not hop on your bike and head to the Town Park? Now there’s a convenient place to lock up your bike, and access all the repair tools needed in the event of a flat or punctured tire. The bike repair station is located at the main parking lot off Town Park Road.

5. Hang Out in the Pergola

It’s the perfect place to stretch out and do some yoga. Or, lounge in an Adirondack chair and read a book. The beautiful pergola is located near the river, so you could always just take in the views. Just remember to stay socially distant and wear a mask or face covering if others are nearby.

6. Find Fun in the Field

The Town of Thompson Park is homebase for local athletes. There’s a baseball diamond with a backstop, as well as a soccer field. While organized sports are on hold during COVID-19, you can use these facilities with members of your household. Remember to keep your distance as always. Be considerate if others are waiting to use the fields, too.

7. Follow That Bird

Whether you use binoculars or not, you’ll be sure to catch a glimpse (or hear the sounds) of the many birds that nest in the Town of Thompson Park. You’ll see blue jays, robins, cardinals, gold finches, and more. Even majestic eagles have been spotted along the river, where they’re known to swoop down and scoop up some trout!

8. Pack a Picnic

The Town of Thompson has spacious, covered pavilions available for rent out for group events. However, the Town is not allowing large groups during the COVID-19 pandemic, small groups only. If the pavilion is vacant, you are welcome to enjoy it with your household. Outdoor grills are also available and you can get your BBQ on as well (just be sure there’s no burn ban in effect). Or, pack a picnic and set up by the river or in one of the many fields in the park. A friendly reminder to bring a bag to carry out your trash.