Minna Anthony Common Nature Center
44927 Cross Island Road
Fineview, NY 13640
- General Information: (315) 482-2479
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
Saturday, June 12, 2021 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center
Take a short hike to learn about the aliens in the area — not aliens in spaceships but invasive species! Come learn about the plants and animals that don't belong in our area and how to stop the spread. Let's see how many you can find!
Program size is limited. Pre-registration required. Please call (315) 482-2479, between 8am-4pm Wednesday through Sunday, to register. Face coverings required.
Saturday, June 19, 2021
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center
What lives underneath rotting logs and rocks? Find out on this fun observation hike. Participants are encouraged to wear hiking shoes. All ages welcome.
Program size is limited. Pre-registration required. Please call (315) 482-2479, between 8am-4pm Wednesday through Sunday, to register. Face coverings required.
Saturday, June 26, 2021 11:00 AM - 03:30 PM
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center
Rod & Reel: 11:00am - 1:00pm // Fly Fishing: 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Hook some new fishing skills with expert fisherman Spider Rybaak! Eel Bay on the St. Lawrence River is a prime location to learn the basics of rod-and-reel and fly fishing. Fishing license requirement is waived during this New York state-wide Free Fishing Weekend.
BYOT: Bring Your Own Tackle, limited supply available. Program is free thanks to the Barbara & Daniel Butts Enrichment Fund.
Program size is limited. Pre-registration required. Please call (315) 482-2479, between 8am-4pm Wednesday through Sunday, to register. Face coverings required.