Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Minna Anthony Common Nature Center

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Address
44927 Cross Island Road
Fineview, NY 13640
Latitude 44.306131
Longitude -76.033448

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 year-round
    During the winter cross country season the ski trails are open when conditions permit.
  • Nature Center

    Off-Season (After Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day)
    Wednesday - Sunday 9:00am - 3:00pm
    Closed Monday and Tuesday
    *Closed Christmas and Thanksgiving

    Operating Season (1st Friday in May - Columbus Day/Indigenous People Day)
    Monday - Thursday 9:00am - 3:00pm
    Friday - Sunday 9:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m.