Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Join a guide for a one-mile tour of the Gorge Trail. The tour will cover how the Finger Lakes and the gorge at Watkins Glen were formed, the rich history of the park and natural history topics. At Mile Point bridge the tour will be over, and you will be able to continue to the top of the gorge on your own or return to the main entrance by using the Rim Trails. Tours will begin at the main entrance on Franklins St, near the entrance tunnel to the gorge trail. No reservations are necessary.

Tours available at 10:00am and 1:00pm

Register for this event at www.rockefellerstateparkpreserve.eventbrite.com or by calling Rebecca at 914-631-1470 x106. Leader: Rebecca Policello

Thursday | 10:00 am | Rockefeller State Park Preserve | FREE |

At 11:30 and 1pm.

Join our Park Educator on a 1 hour guided hike and history tour. Topics include formation of the park, local history, natural history and archaeology. Hiking Shoes recommended, some stairs and wet terrain, approximately 1 mile. Location: Upper Park Entrance, Robert H. Treman State Park, 125 Upper Park Road, Newfield NY 14867

Saturdays from now until Sept 21.

While the main purpose of this hilly, moderately paced 6-mile walk is to relax and socialize, we will make stops to discuss some spots of historic interest. Bring lunch and drinking water.

Join us for a walk down the Yanty Creek Nature Trail as we look and listen for local critters in and around the marsh. We will visit the boardwalk that walks us right out into the cattails for a good view. Meet at Yanty Creek Nature Trail parking area.

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the meandering moonlit trails of the preserve. The woodlands are different in the dark. Discover what creatures are around this time of night!

Meet on the South side. We will enter the upper portion of the Nissequogue River and walk down river, taking in the beauty of the area. You may wear chest waders, a modest bathing suit or a shirt and shorts. You must wear water shoes or sneakers. The water is cool, fast moving in places, and can be up to the waist at times. Bring a walking stick, towel, and drinking water if you like. Limit 12 People.

Meet on the South side. We will enter the upper portion of the Nissequogue River and walk down river, taking in the beauty of the area. You may wear chest waders, a modest bathing suit or a shirt and shorts. You must wear water shoes or sneakers. The water is cool, fast moving in places, and can be up to the waist at times. Bring a walking stick, towel, and drinking water if you like. Limit 12 People.

At 11:30 and 1pm.

Join our Park Educator on a 1 hour guided hike and history tour. Topics include formation of the park, local history, natural history and archaeology. Hiking Shoes recommended, some stairs and wet terrain, approximately 1 mile. Location: Upper Park Entrance, Robert H. Treman State Park, 125 Upper Park Road, Newfield NY 14867

Saturdays from now until Sept 21.

General nature walks highlighted by what is met along the way.

Meet at Trout Pond (2 hours, 1 mile)

General nature walks highlighted by what is met along the way.

Meet at Trout Pond (2 hours, 1 mile)

This program is a quiet, leisurely ramble, generously interspersed with readings selected to enhance your appreciation of the beauty, wonder, and tranquility of nature. Approximately 2 miles.

Geology, history and nature lore are the subjects of a walk along the changing path of the Lower Falls. Muddy spots and lots of steps. Also offered Tuesdays in July and August as part of the Weekly Walk Series.

Meet at octagon building at Lower Falls parking lot, past Cabin Area "B"

Geology, history and nature lore are the subjects of a walk along the changing path of the Lower Falls. Muddy spots and lots of steps. Also offered Tuesdays in July and August as part of the Weekly Walk Series.

Meet at octagon building at Lower Falls parking lot, past Cabin Area "B"

Follow short, paved walkways accessible to wheelchairs and handicapped persons. Covers geology, glacial and human history laced with plants and animals. Comprehensive introduction to Letchworth State Park as viewed from Inspiration Point. Also offered Sundays in July and August as part of the Weekly Walk Series.

Meet at Inspiration Point Parking Lot

Follow short, paved walkways accessible to wheelchairs and handicapped persons. Covers geology, glacial and human history laced with plants and animals. Comprehensive introduction to Letchworth State Park as viewed from Inspiration Point. Also offered Sundays in July and August as part of the Weekly Walk Series.

Meet at Inspiration Point Parking Lot

Visit the home and grounds of William Pryor Letchworth. Plants and animals will be highlighted along a historical walk from the museum, past the Glen Iris and to the Middle and Upper Falls before returning to the museum.

Meet at Museum.

Visit the home and grounds of William Pryor Letchworth. Plants and animals will be highlighted along a historical walk from the museum, past the Glen Iris and to the Middle and Upper Falls before returning to the museum.

Meet at Museum.

General nature hikes utilizing trails, but also traveling cross country to gain vantage to scenic vistas of the river valley. (Bring a lunch)

Meet at Parade Grounds Parking Lot

General nature hikes utilizing trails, but also traveling cross country to gain vantage to scenic vistas of the river valley. (Bring a lunch)

Meet at Parade Grounds Parking Lot

At 11:30 and 1pm.

Join our Park Educator on a 1 hour guided hike and history tour. Topics include formation of the park, local history, natural history and archaeology. Hiking Shoes recommended, some stairs and wet terrain, approximately 1 mile. Location: Upper Park Entrance, Robert H. Treman State Park, 125 Upper Park Road, Newfield NY 14867

Saturdays from now until Sept 21.

This event is co-sponsored by Rockland Audubon Society as part of the New York State Audubon in the Parks program.

Enjoy a two-hour walk led by Ron Conzo of the Rockland Audubon Society in search of neo-tropical birds on their migration. First time birders welcome! Experienced birders will enjoy exploring diverse habitats including; brackish river and marsh, fresh water pond, meadows, lawn and woodland areas.

Bring binoculars, or borrow an extra pair from the group. Wear sturdy shoes or boots.

Meet in the parking lot.

General nature walks around the grounds of the Humphrey Nature Center.

General nature walks around the grounds of the Humphrey Nature Center.

While questions are most welcome, there will be no formal nature discussion during this 6 mile, very hilly, moderately paced walk, thus affording walkers the opportunity to relax, socialize, and observe the park's beauty. For safety reasons, no one under the age of 18 will be permitted to attend. Bring drinking water.

General nature walks highlighted by what is met along the way.

Meet at junction of Oakland Road and Route 436 in Oakland, New York. Will car pool. (2 hours, 1 mile).

General nature walks highlighted by what is met along the way.

Meet at junction of Oakland Road and Route 436 in Oakland, New York. Will car pool. (2 hours, 1 mile).

Bi weekly bird walk lead by the Audubon Society. Walk starts 7:30am in main parking area of Rockefeller State Park Preserve. No pre-registration needed. Walk happens even in rain! But if road conditions are uncertain, check our Google calendar for any cancellations.

Tuesday | 9:00 am | Rockefeller State Park Preserve | FREE |

Become more familiar with the thousands of local animals . Focus on the habitat created by beavers. Brush and mud.

Meet at Parade Grounds parking lot. Bring a supper (3 hours, 1 mile-brush and mud)

Become more familiar with the thousands of local animals . Focus on the habitat created by beavers. Brush and mud.

Meet at Parade Grounds parking lot. Bring a supper (3 hours, 1 mile-brush and mud)

General nature hikes utilizing trails, but also traveling cross country to gain vantage to scenic vistas of the river valley. (Bring a lunch)

Meet at Trillium Trailhead, 1/2 mile up dirt road past Cabin Area "E"

General nature hikes utilizing trails, but also traveling cross country to gain vantage to scenic vistas of the river valley. (Bring a lunch)

Meet at Trillium Trailhead, 1/2 mile up dirt road past Cabin Area "E"

In a less familiar realm of sights and sounds, experience the changing colors and moods in the blending zone of daylight and "nightlight". Sky gazing will follow evening programs if weather permits.

Meet at Trailside Lodge

In a less familiar realm of sights and sounds, experience the changing colors and moods in the blending zone of daylight and "nightlight". Sky gazing will follow evening programs if weather permits.

Meet at Trailside Lodge

At 11:30 and 1pm.

Join our Park Educator on a 1 hour guided hike and history tour. Topics include formation of the park, local history, natural history and archaeology. Hiking Shoes recommended, some stairs and wet terrain, approximately 1 mile. Location: Upper Park Entrance, Robert H. Treman State Park, 125 Upper Park Road, Newfield NY 14867

Saturdays from now until Sept 21.

Hike #11 River Rd to Route 19A. This hike is in Wyoming County, just south of the Village of Portageville. Park and meet at the trailhead on the east side of Route 19A at the intersection of River Rd, about .33 mile south of Bailey Rd (aka Whiskey Bridge). Easy, flat trail with a mixed surface. Trail parallels the Genesee River and traverses under a forest canopy, alongside farms, and ends near a picturesque bend in the Genesee River. Both the Finger Lakes Trail and the North Country National Scenic Trail share part of this section of the Genesee Valley Greenway. Bald Eagles are also known to habitat this area.(42.554845, -78.053066)

Roundtrip of entire section: 3.4 miles
Roundtrip to Wegmans trail marker: 1.25 miles

On this short stroll (approx. 1.5 miles), one of a series designed to observe seasonal changes, we will witness summer's slow, subtle change, as she withers and goes to seed

General nature walks around the grounds of the Humphrey Nature Center.

General nature walks around the grounds of the Humphrey Nature Center.

Experience and see Sterling Forest in a whole new light and join the Rangers for a NIGHT hike to the Fire Tower. Hike in the light of a full moon, stargaze, and view the illuminated skyline of Manhattan. The hike will depart at 5:30 PM sharp and will arrive at the Fire Tower in time to view the sunset. We will be walking back in the dark, so headlamps or flashlights are a MUST and will not be provided. All are welcome, and be sure to bring water, snacks, and wear sturdy shoes.

Hike is limited to 30 participants. Please register by calling (845) 351-5907.

General nature walks highlighted by what is met along the way.

Meet at lowest St. Helena parking lot. (2 hours, 1 mile)

General nature walks highlighted by what is met along the way.

Meet at lowest St. Helena parking lot. (2 hours, 1 mile)

Join us for a full moon hike on Thursday, September 15th from 7-8:30pm to learn about the history of the Sturgeon Moon and the Preserve. The hike will be led by our Preserve Manager, Peter Iskenderian, and will start in the courtyard with some light snacks and refreshments. This event is free and open to all ages. The hike follows our wide gravel carriage roads and is relatively flat with a few hilly spots (easy-moderate hike). Please bring a flashlight or headlamp! Please come dressed for the weather, will be canceled in case of heavy rain so check your email for updates! Registration for this event is required. Limit 40 participants.

Sunday | 7:00 pm | Rockefeller State Park Preserve | FREE |

General nature hikes utilizing trails, but also traveling cross country to gain vantage to scenic vistas of the river valley. (Bring a lunch).

Meet at Highbanks Camper Contact Station across from the Perry Entrance.

General nature hikes utilizing trails, but also traveling cross country to gain vantage to scenic vistas of the river valley. (Bring a lunch).

Meet at Highbanks Camper Contact Station across from the Perry Entrance.

At 11:30 and 1pm.

Join our Park Educator on a 1 hour guided hike and history tour. Topics include formation of the park, local history, natural history and archaeology. Hiking Shoes recommended, some stairs and wet terrain, approximately 1 mile. Location: Upper Park Entrance, Robert H. Treman State Park, 125 Upper Park Road, Newfield NY 14867

Saturdays from now until Sept 21.

How often do you really look at the forest while walking? Discover all the little things that make it special during a stroll through the preserve. It might surprise you!

During this program, geared for novice adult birders, we'll be searching for birds...no birds? -we'll learn plants! Bring binoculars. Approximately 2 miles.

Rewilding Art (Celia Bland & Susan Merriam)

$15 ADULT, $10 MEMBER, $10 CHILD | [24 GUEST LIMIT]

Frederic Church designed carriage roads to maximize views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains. The organizing aesthetic for these vistas was a romantic ideal of the sublime and the "language of Nature.” Contemplation of these views was meant to provide inspiration and comfort – in poet William Wordsworth's words, "spots of time...[where] our minds/ Are nourished and invisibly repaired.” This tour, led by poet Celia Bland and art historian Susan Merriam, faculty at Bard College, will put the gorgeous panoramas glimpsed from Olana's carriage roads in dialogue with some of the unexpected perspectives of contemporary and Romantic poetry. For more information and tickets visit OLANA.org

General nature walks highlighted by what is met along the way.

Meet at Council Grounds parking lot (2 hours, 1 mile).

General nature walks highlighted by what is met along the way.

Meet at Council Grounds parking lot (2 hours, 1 mile).

A mushroom walk on Wednesday, September 25 will highlight more autumn fungi.

Meet at High Bridge parking lot.

A mushroom walk on Wednesday, September 25 will highlight more autumn fungi.

Meet at High Bridge parking lot.

General nature hikes utilizing trails, but also traveling cross country to gain vantage to scenic vistas of the river valley. (Bring a lunch)

Meet at overlook 2 miles south of the Perry Entrance Gate.

General nature hikes utilizing trails, but also traveling cross country to gain vantage to scenic vistas of the river valley. (Bring a lunch)

Meet at overlook 2 miles south of the Perry Entrance Gate.

Join a park naturalist for a special fall-themed scavenger hunt along the trails of the park. All ages and abilities are welcome! Walk will be approximately 1 mile on easy trails.

General nature walks around the grounds of the Humphrey Nature Center.

General nature walks around the grounds of the Humphrey Nature Center.

We'll take a slow walk (approximately 3 miles), exploring nature in the woods and tall grass meadows of the southeastern section of the park.

Hike #13 Route 305 to Tibbetts Hill Rd. This hike is in Allegany County, starts in the Town of Belfast and ends in the Town of New Hudson. Park and meet at the parking lot on the east side of Route 305 between Baragon Hill Rd (east side of Rt 305) and Gleason Hill Rd. (west side of Rt 305). Easy, flat trail with a mixed surface. This section is heavily wooded and traverses through forested wetlands offering numerous opportunities to view wildlife. (42.302822, -78.163094)

Roundtrip of entire section: 6.8 miles
Roundtrip to trail marker: 4.2 miles

Celebrate a classic autumn harvest like the Victorians did! First, we'll take a nut tree identification hike, then practice processing various nuts. We'll make some nutty snacks and enjoy hot cocoa- don't miss this wonderful fall tradition!

Registration is required: $10 per person, children 12 and under FREE

Visitor Center

Come explore the trails at Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site w/ site educator David for this free Autumn Tour.

Enjoy the Park's trails under the nearly Full Beaver Moon. Use your night-vision and your ears to detect the presence of wildlife as we walk along the Long Path from Mine Kill to the New York Power Authority Visitors Center. Please wear sturdy footwear, dress appropriately for the weather, and meet at the Mine Kill State Park Office.

This is a free event. For more information, please call the park office at (518) 827-8690.