Ulster County’s Free ‘Nature Bus’ Returns This Sat. for 2026 Season

Published on June 02, 2026

Free Rides, Free Park Access, and a Major New Offering Coming This Summer

KINGSTON, NY - Ulster County is excited to announce the return of its trailblazing Nature Bus service, beginning Saturday, June 6, and running every Saturday through the end of September. Launched by County Executive Jen Metzger in partnership with Ulster County Area Transit (UCAT) and the Department of Tourism, the Nature Bus provides completely free transportation and entry to some of Ulster County’s most spectacular parks and nature preserves.

Now in its third year, the Nature Bus makes it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy Ulster County’s natural treasures without needing a car. This year’s routes connect riders to Mohonk Preserve, Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Sojourner Truth State Park, Black Creek Preserve, Walkway Over the Hudson State Park, and Kingston Point Beach. All routes are accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

While Sojourner Truth State Park remains a stop on the River Route, public access to the park will begin June 27 due to ongoing construction. When construction is completed this summer, visitors will be able to enjoy the park’s newest feature: Lake Sophia, the first new public swim facility built in a New York State Park in 20 years. With capacity for 480 swimmers, Lake Sophia will include a shallow swim crib connected to a 20‑foot “deep swim” area, and a beach with direct access to the park’s trail system — all free to Nature Bus riders.

“We’re excited to announce that the Nature Bus kicks off this weekend, providing an easy and free way for our residents to enjoy the County’s stunning parks and preserves,” said County Executive Jen Metzger. "It’s a great way to take time for yourself or with friends and family, hiking, biking, swimming, or just connecting with nature, and we’re happy to be able to provide this service for our community."

The 2026 Nature Bus routes: 

• Ridge Route: From New Paltz, the Nature Bus picks up riders at the NYS Thruway Park and Ride, New Paltz Gardens, and New Paltz Trailways; from Ellenville, the Nature Bus departs from Liberty Square. Destinations include the Mohonk Preserve Testimonial Gate Trailhead, Mohonk Preserve Visitors Center, and Minnewaska State Park Preserve.
• River Route: The Nature Bus departs from Kingston Plaza, with a stop at Garraghan Drive. Destinations include Sojourner Truth State Park, Kingston Point Beach, Black Creek Preserve, and Walkway Over the Hudson State Park.

The Ridge Route will run for the kick-off on Saturday, June 6. For route start times, dates, and locations, please visit https://ulstercountyny.gov/nature-bus. After the launch, the River and Ridge Routes will run on an alternating basis on Saturdays through late September.

“Our parks and preserves are a cornerstone of Ulster County’s identity, and the Nature Bus ensures everyone has the chance to experience them,” said Lisa Berger, Ulster County Director of Tourism. “This year is especially exciting with the opening of Lake Sophia at Sojourner Truth State Park — a beautiful new swimming area that Nature Bus riders can enjoy at no cost. I’m grateful we can continue offering this service in its third year, and I expect even more people will take advantage of it as Ulster County continues investing in sustainable, accessible recreation.”

“We’re proud to bring back the Nature Bus for another season and to make it simple for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy our outdoor spaces,” said Toni Roser, Director of Ulster County Area Transit. “With free rides, bike racks on board, and easy connections to parks, trails, beaches, and now the new swim area at Sojourner Truth State Park, it’s never been easier to get out and explore Ulster County.”

All routes are designed to accommodate individuals of all ages and abilities, with buses equipped with bike racks.

For detailed bus schedules, more information, and updates, please visit https://ulstercountyny.gov/nature-bus.