L ong Island's natural beauty goes beyond its beaches. Tucked away in wooded corners and coastal stretches are preserves that often fly under the radar, even for longtime locals. These hidden gems ...

A grey heron and American alligator, all part of the scene at Lake Maggiore Island, can get a look at one of their biggest fans — Taylor Thornton, the supervisor at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve.

The new Miller Bluff Trail in Hixon Forest is hike-only, and features vistas and an up-close and personal walk along a rock band, where sandstone and limestone is visible.