Minna Anthony Common Nature Center

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Address
44927 Cross Island Road
Fineview, NY 13640

Thousand Islands Region

Latitude 44.306131

Longitude -76.033448

Directions

General Information: (315) 482-2479

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The Minna Anthony Common Nature Center is one of the largest nature centers in the state park system and in New York State. It sits on a pristine 600 acre peninsula of Wellesley Island in the middle of the St. Lawrence River. There are 8 miles of hiking trails and 7 miles of cross country ski trails. Highlights of a visit may include scenic views of the Thousand Islands from the trail vistas, a summer ride in the 36 foot Voyageur Canoe or a visit to the butterfly house which features native flora and butterflies.

A special geological feature of the center are the four glacial potholes along the scenic Eel Bay trail. The nature center overlooks Eel Bay, a unique habitat of the St. Lawrence River and a prime duck migration area well known for its pike, bass, bullhead and perch fishing. The nature center has dock located in Eel Bay allowing boaters access to the center and a place for patrons to fish.

Thousands of school children visit the center each year from fall through spring to learn about the environment. Each season features unique programs. Special wildlife sightings include watching for bald eagles on Eel Bay from late November to early January and again in late March and in the summer looking for osprey which nest in the park.

Contact the nature center staff for more information on school programs.

Hours of Operation

The hiking trails are open every day sunrise to sunset.
During the winter cross country season the ski trails are open when conditions permit.
Open Wednesday through Sunday
9am - 3pm (closed daily 12pm - 1pm for cleaning)
*Closed Christmas and Thanksgiving

Sat 04 Dec

Natural Garland Workshop
Saturday, December 4, 2021 10:00 AM
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center

(315) 482-2479

Come use all sorts of natural objects to create a beautiful garland you can hang on your tree or over your mantel this holiday season. Pick out what you want to use from the assortment of things we have collected, drill a hole in it, and string it onto wire. This is a craft loved by both men and woman! If you are able, please bring your own drill. Preregistration is required. Class size is small for more personal instruction.

Registration: Required

Sat 11 Dec

Holiday Bonanza
Saturday, December 11, 2021 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center

Come enjoy some holiday cheer at our Holiday Bonanza! There will be live music, local craft vendors, food, and holiday craft-making for both children and adults. Spend the day chatting with family and friends at this fun community event. It's a great way to kick off the holiday season!

Sat 18 Dec

Twelve Days of Christmas Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, December 18, 2021 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center

Take a hike on our trails and play our Christmas scavenger hunt with a nature spin. Can you find all twelve? Stop in and give it a try.

Sat 01 Jan

First Day Hike
Saturday, January 1, 2022 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center

(315) 482-2479

Kick off the New Year in the outdoors! Join us for this annual event held across New York State. Hikes are self-guided – choose your own adventure! We have 5 miles of winter trails open.

Weather permitting. Please, dress appropriately with footwear for varied winter terrain and possible ice. Snowshoes will be provided if conditions allow.

Meet inside the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center. Pre-registration is recommended in case of cancellation due to inclement weather.

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Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation