The New Long Bridge

BrineGarden Open Days
Pawling, NY, in the Hudson Valley
Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25, 2026

Every autumn, we welcome visitors into the BrineGarden as part of the Garden Conservancy's Open Days Program. A fun time is had by all.

A list of native plant species is available.

Come see our new Long Bridge, all locust. The curving bridge is a defining feature of the garden.

Black Locust, Robinia pseudoacacia, is known for its remarkable durability, traditionally making it one of nature's longest-lasting hardwoods. Typically, dairy farmers in Dutchess County used locust posts. In fall, locust’s compound leaves are golden, in winter, locust is renowned for its exceptionally hot burn, and in spring, the fragrance of its cascades of white blossoms is pervasive. The blossoms, high overhead, are unseen—but are found by pollinators—providing a crucial and abundant early nectar source for honeybees.

The original bridge was built in 2005 after powerful microbursts brought down several large locusts. Its timber remained in place—hewn and crafted in situ.

The bridge embodies the cyclical rhythms of the BrineGarden: growth, loss, transformation, and renewal. It links diverse ecosystems while inviting visitors to experience changing elevations, vistas, and the quiet power of landscape continually reinventing itself.

After 20 years of aging gracefully in place, the GardenLarge crew has rebuilt the Long Bridge connecting several pathways. Its return represents more than just a renewed element, it reflects GardenLarge’s philosophy of working with the rhythms of nature, honoring the character of the site, and allowing the landscape to tell its story through time.

Visitors during this year's Open Days will once again be able to walk the bridge, experiencing the changing vistas and diverse ecosystems it was intended to reveal.

As in recent years, guests will also encounter the accompaniment of live, classical piano music broadcast throughout the garden by Duncan and Julia’s son, Alden Brine, whose music has become a cherished part of the BrineGarden experience.

We are pleased and proud to open BrineGarden to the community once again in collaboration with the Garden Conservancy and their Open Days Program. We hope you'll join us on Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25, 2026, 1pm-5pm, to experience the garden in its autumn beauty—and to walk the Long Bridge into its next chapter.