The area known as backcountry Greenwich lies north of the Merritt Parkway and south of North Castle and Bedford. The area is zoned to limit properties to no less than four acres which helps to keep the area very private and in a more pastural setting rather than suburban. The only exclusion to this rule is the private community of Conyers Farm, which has a 10-acre minimum. While Backcountry Greenwich is known for its idyllic estates set on large private swaths of land, there is much more to it than just mansions.
Recognized as one of the most elite high-goal polo venues in the world, Greenwich Polo Club has been drawing crowds for over four decades. Their Sunday matches have over 2,000 spectators in attendance to watch the legendary White Birch Polo Team, one of the most successful teams in history.
The Greenwich Riding and Trails Association was formed in the early 1900s by a group of landowners, riders and developers who wanted to maintain and preserve some of the original trails in the area. These trails were created by the local indigenous people and later by early settlers. Today’s trails move across private land, roads, and public parks. The GTRA is responsible for the upkeep and preservation of the trails and due to their hard work, riders of all levels can enjoy miles of trails throughout backcountry Greenwich.
The Greenwich Audubon Center is a nature preserve and educational center. They manage almost 700 acres of land that include hiking trails through forests, rolling fields, lakes, a stream with vernal pools, abandoned farmlands and wetlands. They also offer a variety of educational programs and a summer camp for kids.
The area is also home to Greenwich’s only public golf course, Griffith E. Harris Golf Course, known to the locals as “The Griff.” It was designed in 1963 by the architect Robert Trent Jones and while it is considered a championship level course, it has tee off locations to accommodate all levels of player. The course also offers a putting green, driving range and a chipping area. Facilities at the Griff include a pro-shop with resident pro, lessons, equipment sales and rentals. On the property is also a restaurant, The Cobber North, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While “The Griff” is a public course, it is limited to town residents and their guests.
