Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Meet at the main entrance parking lot on Rte. 13. The hike will go up the Rim Trail to the Bear Trail, out to Lake Treman and back to the main parking lot. Total hike mileage 3.5 miles. Hike length and exact route subject to change due to weather conditions.

Registration: email josh.teeter@parks.ny.gov or call (607) 387-7041 ext. 131

Meet at the Jacksonville Rd parking lot. The hike will go out on the future Black Diamond Trail 2 1/2 miles and then we will turn around and return to the parking lot. Total hike mileage 5 miles. Hike length and exact route subject to change due to trail or weather conditions.

Registration: email josh.teeter@parks.ny.gov or call (607) 387-7041 ext. 131

Visitor Center- Come explore the trails at Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site w/ site educator David for this free Autumn Tour. The tour covers about a mile of the historic Erie Canal towpath and will include interpretive stops along the way. Autumn is a terrific time of year to walk the trails at Schoharie Crossing, and this is a great chance to get a free tour.

Tour time is approximately 90 minutes with interpretive stops. Please wear appropriate footwear for walking on grass trails. In case of *Rain* tour will be post-poned.

Hike #14 Bull St. to West Cuba Rd. This hike is located in Allegany County in the Village of Cuba. Park and meet on the west side of Bull St near the gazebo adjacent to the funeral home. Easy, flat trail with a milled surface. Relaxing trail parallels Griffin and Olean Creeks offering views of abundant wildlife. 2.7 miles round trip (42.216592, -78.283329)

Meet at the parking lot by Watkins Glen High school (see CVT map). We will hike the trail a little south of Montour Falls for a total hike mileage of approximately 5 miles. Hike length and exact route subject to change due to weather conditions.

Registration: Email josh.teeter@parks.ny.gov or call (607) 387-7041 ext. 131 and let us know how many people in your group to expect.

For a map of the trail and the location of the meeting parking lot visit: http://nysparks.com/parks/attachments/CatharineValleyTrailParkMap.pdf

Come discover what all the hoopla's about as we set out on a moonlit hike to witness the rise of the harvest moon, the closest full moon to the autumnal equinox. For information and registration call (716) 549-1050.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Learn about the animals of the night and who makes what sound. Try to identify trees by their shape and texture of their bark. Look to the stars and moon, find out how they can help you navigate at night. Bring a head lamp (although we will try not to use it).

Join us for our final Hike Through History Series! Come learn about Artpark's history and geology of the Niagara Gorge on this very scenic trail! For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Hike #13 Route 305 to Tibbetts Hill Rd. This hike is located in Allegany County in the Town of Belfast. Park and meet at the parking lot on the south side of Route 305 between Baragon Hill Rd and Gleason Hill Rd. Easy, flat trail with a mixed surface. This section is heavily wooded and traverses through forested wetlands offering numerous opportunities to view wildlife. 4.2 miles to trail marker and back (42.302822, -78.163094)

Fall Migratory birds. Join Rockland Audubon Society’s Della and Alan Wells as they explore the diverse bird habitats of Stony Point. Bring binoculars! Gates open 7:45a.m., Meet in parking lot. Open to all, from new to experienced birders.

Join a park naturalist for a leisurely walk along the picturesque Lake Erie shoreline. Bring a camera to capture the moment! For information and registration call (716) 549-1050.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Meet at the parking lot on Banzhoff Road. The hike will follow the Red trail to the Yellow trail down to the upper reservoir. We will head back on the Yellow trail but use the Blue loop to get back to the parking lot. Total hike mileage 3.8 miles. Hike length and exact route subject to change due to weather conditions.

Registration: email josh.teeter@parks.ny.gov or call (607) 387-7041 ext. 131 Registration: Not required but appreciated

https://parks.ny.gov/parks/attachments/TwoRiversStateParkTwoRiversStateParkTrailMap.pdf

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Explore Niagara Falls State Park with a Park Naturalist and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls during the evening hours. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Meet on the south side. We will walk down river to observe this unique eco-system. Please wear chest waders (no felt bottoms), a modest bathing suit or shirt & shorts. You must wear water shoes or sneakers. The water is cold, fast moving and can be to the waist. Bring a towel, walking stick and drinking water.

Meet on the south side. We will walk down river to observe this unique eco-system. Please wear chest waders (no felt bottoms), a modest bathing suit or shirt & shorts. You must wear water shoes or sneakers. The water is cold, fast moving and can be to the waist. Bring a towel, walking stick and drinking water.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Explore Niagara Falls State Park with a Park Naturalist and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls during the evening hours. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Follow in the footsteps of the attacking American forces as the sounds of musket and cannon fire from the British camp echo around you. Walk with a guide and learn the details of the battle. Not suitable for younger children. Bring bug spray and flashlight. By advance reservation only, please call 845-786-2521. 

Join Allegany State Park staff as they discover the birds that call Lake Erie State Park home. Stick around for the afternoon Family Nature Hike. Meet at the campground playground - programs are free to the public.

10:00am Birds

1:00pm Family Nature Hike

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Explore Niagara Falls State Park with a Park Naturalist and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls during the evening hours. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Big and small we'll look for them all! Come discover the diversity of life that calls the woods home. For information and registration call (716) 549-1050.

Join us for this Early Morning Bird Walk with environmental educator George Steele! Come listen to the early morning chorus and identify some of the many birds of the Mohawk Valley.

Program will occur on the grounds of Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear proper shoes for walking on damp grass.

Meet on the south side. We will walk up river to Blydenburg County Park. Please wear chest waders (no felt bottoms), a modest bathing suit or shirt & shorts. You must wear water shoes or sneakers. The water is cold, fast moving and can be to the waist at times. Bring a towel, walking stick and drinking water.

Meet on the south side. We will walk up river to Blydenburg County Park. Please wear chest waders (no felt bottoms), a modest bathing suit or shirt & shorts. You must wear water shoes or sneakers. The water is cold, fast moving and can be to the waist at times. Bring a towel, walking stick and drinking water.

Join us for a sensory walk as we use our five senses to experience the natural world in new ways! People of all ages and abilities are welcome. For information and registration call (716) 549-1050.

Hike #12 Rockville Dam to Huck Rd. This hike is located in Allegany County in the Town of Belfast. Park and meet at the Rockville Lake dam at the end of Lake Rd. There are two Lake Roads, turn on the one across from Ramsey Rd off Route 305. Easy, flat trail with a mixed surface. Offers a relaxing hike through a heavily wooded area with wild flowers, a babbling brook, old Irish cemetery and remnants of the old canal. 2.1 miles round trip (42.307877, -78.150362)

Join Allegany State Park staff for an exciting day for the whole family. Programs include a Family Nature Hike, Lake Critters exploration and Nature Games. Stop in for one, or stay for all three. Meet at the trailhead to the Point. Programs are free to the public.

10:00am Family Nature Hike

12:00pm Lake Critters

2:00pm Nature Games

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Use all your senses to explore the park in a less familiar realm as we journey into the woods with only the moonlight. Bring the kids and grandkids along as we test our senses. Meet at the campground playground - program is free to the public (approx. 1 hour).

Explore Niagara Falls State Park with a Park Naturalist and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls during the evening hours. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Join us for a hike through history on our most challenging trail! We will learn about geology of the gorge along the lower Niagara River to the Whirlpool Flats!! For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Join Interpretive hikes to various Civilian Conservation Corps sites within Letchworth and learn of the CCC's contribution to the development of the Park. 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, at the Octagon Shelter (Lower Falls area).

Join Interpretive hikes to various Civilian Conservation Corps sites within Letchworth and learn of the CCC's contribution to the development of the Park. 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, at the Octagon Shelter (Lower Falls area).

Meet at the main entrance parking lot on Franklin Street. The hike will go up the Gorge Trail and we will return using the Indian trail and South Rim Trail. Total hike mileage 3.0 miles. Hike length and exact route subject to change due to weather conditions.

Registration: email josh.teeter@parks.ny.gov or call (607) 387-7041 ext. 131

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Explore Niagara Falls State Park with a Park Naturalist and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls during the evening hours. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Use a GPS to find hidden objects in the woods. Meet at the Main Comfort Station.

Drop by the Nature Center to learn about the Principles of Leave No Trace. We'll talk about the concepts, then go on a brief hike to practice Leave No Trace in action. This program is recommended for everyone, including children over the age of six, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Siblings of any age are welcome to join us. Pre-registration is NOT required.

Join us as we hike through the woods and discover what is living in the wilds of Staten Island.

Join us as we hike through the woods and discover what is living in the wilds of Staten Island.

Saturday July 28th and Sunday July 29th

In summer, wild blueberries and huckleberries can be found growing along almost every trail at Sam's Point, providing a tasty snack for both wildlife and hikers alike. Can you identify these two berries? Stop by the picnic area at Sam's Point to try the berry taste test and make your own berry holder to take with you on your hike. Join a guide for a short walk to see remnants of berry picker shacks and learn about this interesting culture that once thrived here. The 27-minute documentary, The Huckleberry Pickers: A Vanished Shawangunk Culture, will be shown in the Visitor Center throughout the day. All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Pre-registration is NOT required.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for an approximately four-mile hike to Echo Rock. Echo Rock is a scenic vista perched on the edge of a cliff above the Palmaghatt Ravine, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding Park Preserve and the Wallkill Valley. Our trip to Echo Rock will take participants on a few historic carriage roads, including Lake Minnewaska, Millbrook Mountain and Hamilton Point Carriage Roads. Our return trip will be slightly different, as we will take Hamilton Point, Castle Point and Lake Minnewaska Carriage Roads to return to our starting point. Meet at the Minnewaska Nature Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Explore Niagara Falls State Park with a Park Naturalist and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls during the evening hours. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Have you ever wondered what it means to be a citizen scientist? Join us for a short hike and discussion about getting involved in projects like eBird and iMapInvasives! For information and registration call (716) 549-1050.

Explore the Shingle Gully Ice Caves, where ice persists into summer in deep crevice caves. These caves are in a backcountry area in Minnewaska State Park Preserve. This rugged, protected landscape is accessible only on guided tours led by park staff and volunteer docents. This all-day, strenuous adventure ascends and descends 1,500 feet, includes off-trail bushwhacking and steep rock scrambles, and is only appropriate for experienced hikers. Pre-registration is required by calling Sam's Point at 845-647-7989. Pre-registration deadline: July 17th.

Join Stefan Ramirez, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Educator, for a hike along the Jenny Lane section of the Shawangunk Ridge Trail and the Blueberry Run Footpath, through a section of forest that was burned during the 2008 wildfire. Our route will begin with a one mile hike on the Wawarsing Turnpike Footpath, a section of the toll road built in the 1850s that crossed the Shawangunk Mountains. We conclude our hike along the verdant Mossy Glen Footpath, which follows along the edge of the Peter's Kill stream. This five-mile-long hike includes some hilly sections, two stream crossings and lots of walking on exposed bedrock. Meet in the Awosting Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for a delicious morning stroll through the old Minnewaska golf course and orchard. This approximately mile-and-a-half long route wanders amongst blueberry and huckleberry bushes that should be ripe for the picking. Bring a small bag to collect berries as we hike. We will also look out for birds that frequent the golf course, so feel free to bring binoculars as well. Children of all ages are welcome; however, a backpack style carrier is necessary for children who are not able to walk this distance on their own. All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Minnewaska Nature Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.

Enjoy the huckleberries and blueberries along this adventurous, strenuous hike. This approximately ten-mile hike will traverse mostly carriage roads, with about two miles on a narrow, rocky footpath including some steep, challenging sections. Participants must wear appropriate shoes and bring a backpack with plenty of water, snacks, and lunch. All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Sam's Point at 845-647-7989.

Explore the Shingle Gully Ice Caves, where ice persists into summer in deep crevice caves. These caves are in a backcountry area in Minnewaska State Park Preserve. This rugged, protected landscape is accessible only on guided tours led by park staff and volunteer docents. This all-day, strenuous adventure ascends and descends 1,500 feet, includes off-trail bushwhacking and steep rock scrambles, and is only appropriate for experienced hikers. Pre-registration is required by calling Sam's Point at 845-647-7989. Pre-registration deadline: July 16th.

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Explore Niagara Falls State Park with a Park Naturalist and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls during the evening hours. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

10:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Are you fascinated by fire? Are you interested in how the recent 2016 wildfire affected the plants and animals at Sam's Point? Learn about Sam's Point's unique fire-dependent ecosystem on this interpretive three mile hike on the Loop Road. We will explore the landscape to examine fire-adapted species and to compare and contrast forests where fire has been suppressed and reintroduced. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Sam's Point at 845-647-7989.

Embark on a journey to Knox Falls and experience the park during twilight hours. For information and registration call (716) 549-1050.

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for this approximately four-mile hike along the Peter's Kill stream, through mixed forests and across exposed quartz conglomerate rock. The first part of this hike will take participants on the easy to walk Lower Awosting Carriage Road. The return trip will take participants along the full length of the beautiful Mossy Glen Footpath, which is just under two miles. The footpath may include challenging conditions for some, including slippery rocks and tree roots. Meet in the Awosting Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.

Explore the Shingle Gully Ice Caves, where ice persists into summer in deep crevice caves. These caves are in a backcountry area in Minnewaska State Park Preserve. This rugged, protected landscape is accessible only on guided tours led by park staff and volunteer docents. This all-day, strenuous adventure ascends and descends 1,500 feet, includes off-trail bushwhacking and steep rock scrambles, and is only appropriate for experienced hikers. Pre-registration is required by calling Sam's Point at 845-647-7989. Pre-registration deadline: July 10th.

When do the flowers bloom? When do the leaves fall? We are very curious to find out! In this program, you will learn all about phenology, the study of how plants and animals change throughout the seasons, while working as a citizen scientist to collect information about the plants in our park. We will be offering this hike once a month at Sam's Point to monitor seasonal changes in plants along the Loop Road. Along this carriage road, you will encounter a variety of flowers, ferns, shrubs, and trees which change as you move up in elevation. This program is recommended for children over the age of eight, but everyone is welcome to join us. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Sam's Point at 845-647-7989.

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. Traverses under a forest canopy, alongside farms and ends near a picturesque bend in the Genesee River. 2.4 miles round trip (42.554845, -78.053066)

Use a GPS to find hidden objects in the woods. Meet at the Main Comfort Station.

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Explore Niagara Falls State Park with a Park Naturalist and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls during the evening hours. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Bring the kids and grandkids along for a relaxing hike as we explore the natural wonders at Lake Erie State Park. Meet at the campground playground - program is free to the public (approx. 1 hour).

Meet on the south Side. Take a delightful walk along the Nissequogue River to discover how pristine this area is.

Meet on the south Side. Take a delightful walk along the Nissequogue River to discover how pristine this area is.

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for a Sunday morning stroll along the Castle Point and Millbrook Mountain Carriage Roads to reach Kempton Ledge and Patterson's Pellet. These two cliff-edge, scenic vistas are located across the Palmaghatt Ravine from each other and, if conditions are favorable, we should be able to see one from the other and perhaps even the tower at High Point State Park in New Jersey. Meet at the Minnewaska Nature Center. Pre-registration is required by calling 845-255-0752.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Meet at the parking lot on by main pavilion. The hike will follow the Gorge and will return using the North Rim Trail. Total hike mileage 3.5 miles. Hike length and exact route subject to change due to weather conditions.

Registration: email josh.teeter@parks.ny.gov or call (607) 387-7041 ext. 131

Join Stefan Ramirez, SCA/AmeriCorps Intern, on a guided hike to see all the stunning views from the numerous scenic vistas along the East side of Lake Minnewaska. Our first stop will be the last remaining historic summerhouse gazebo, which sits perched above the Lake. From here, we'll continue our walk to reach the site of the former Cliffhouse hotel. Marvel at the spectacular views that former guests would have had out across Lake Minnewaska to the distant Catskill Mountains. Next, we'll drop down to the Beacon Hill Footpath, which offers a broad vista of the Wallkill Valley including distant views of Storm King and Break Neck Mountains, as well as the iconic stone observation tower, Skytop, to the North. The last leg of our journey includes another cliff edge viewpoint that offers scenic vistas of the Catskill Mountains and the Trapps area. This modest hike, which follows along a combination of carriage roads and a footpath, is approximately two-and-a- half miles long and does include some hills and rocky sections of footpath. Your guide stays with the group the entire trip, offering answers to your questions about the cultural and natural history of this special Park Preserve. Meet at the Minnewaska Nature Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Explore Niagara Falls State Park with a Park Naturalist and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls during the evening hours. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Adults and children alike will enjoy this hike through Long Point State Park. Learn to identify the trees that grow here. Meet at the trailhead to the Point. Program is free to the public (approx. 1 hour).

Explore the Shingle Gully Ice Caves, where ice persists into summer in deep crevice caves. These caves are in a backcountry area in Minnewaska State Park Preserve. This rugged, protected landscape is accessible only on guided tours led by park staff and volunteer docents. This all-day, strenuous adventure ascends and descends 1,500 feet, includes off-trail bushwhacking and steep rock scrambles, and is only appropriate for experienced hikers. Pre-registration is required by calling Sam's Point at 845-647-7989. Pre-registration deadline: July 1st.

This summer, Allegany State Park's Environmental Education Department will offer hikes to view the rare Synchronous Fireflies – once thought to exist in only a handful of places in the world.

The Photinus Carolinus species, also known as the Synchronous Firefly, flashes only from late June to mid-July.

In 2012, the Firefly International Research and Education Team (FIRE Team) came to study the local firefly species, and confirmed its existence in the Branch Creek area of Allegheny National Forest.

Adele Wellman, Lead Naturalist for Allegany State Park, and her team of environmental educators along with numerous volunteers received training necessary to identify this species. The Park Naturalists were able to identify the Synchronous Firefly and confirm its first sighting in New York State.

For information on other programs, please check Allegany State Park's activity schedule at www.facebook.com/alleganystatepark , or call 354-9101 ext. 232.

Meet at Tornado Blowdown area, Site 68.

Use all your senses to explore the park in a less familiar realm as we journey into the woods with only the moonlight. Bring the kids and grandkids along as we test our senses. Meet at the trailhead to the Point. Program is free to the public. (approx. 1 hour).

Thacher State Park is home to over 25 miles of trails. Explore the trails with our educators on a series of interpretive walks throughout the park. This week we'll experience views into the Hudson-Mohawk Valley and learn about the geologic processes that shaped the valley on the Escarpment Trail. The rating for this tour is Moderate at 3 miles in length. Meet at the Horseshoe I parking area. Call 518-872-1237 to register. Park entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

Thacher State Park is home to over 25 miles of trails. Explore the trails with our educators on a series of interpretive walks throughout the park. This week we'll experience views into the Hudson-Mohawk Valley and learn about the geologic processes that shaped the valley on the Escarpment Trail. The rating for this tour is Moderate at 3 miles in length. Meet at the Horseshoe I parking area. Call 518-872-1237 to register. Park entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

This summer, Allegany State Park's Environmental Education Department will offer hikes to view the rare Synchronous Fireflies – once thought to exist in only a handful of places in the world.

The Photinus Carolinus species, also known as the Synchronous Firefly, flashes only from late June to mid-July.

In 2012, the Firefly International Research and Education Team (FIRE Team) came to study the local firefly species, and confirmed its existence in the Branch Creek area of Allegheny National Forest.

Adele Wellman, Lead Naturalist for Allegany State Park, and her team of environmental educators along with numerous volunteers received training necessary to identify this species. The Park Naturalists were able to identify the Synchronous Firefly and confirm its first sighting in New York State.

For information on other programs, please check Allegany State Park's activity schedule at www.facebook.com/alleganystatepark , or call 354-9101 ext. 232.

Meet at France Brook Road, Site 29, near the entrance to Camp 12

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for a lovely morning walk along the Beacon Hill Footpath and Carriage Road loop, which follows along the top edge of an east–facing escarpment. This walk, which is just over two miles long, offers beautiful views of the Rondout and Wallkill valleys below and the Catskill Mountains to the north. This route follows along carriage roads as well as the Beacon Hill Footpath, which does include some hills and tricky footing. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.

Explore the Shingle Gully Ice Caves, where ice persists into summer in deep crevice caves. These caves are in a backcountry area in Minnewaska State Park Preserve. This rugged, protected landscape is accessible only on guided tours led by park staff and volunteer docents. This all-day, strenuous adventure ascends and descends 1,500 feet, includes off-trail bushwhacking and steep rock scrambles, and is only appropriate for experienced hikers. Pre-registration is required by calling Sam's Point at 845-647-7989. Pre-registration deadline: June 26th.

Escape the stress of everyday life and relax with a beach walk. In the last month, how often have you skipped stones, smelled a flower, watched a sunset? Join us on a walk along the shore of Lake Ontario, watch the sunset and skip a rock or two. Relax and enjoy this beautiful park setting. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.

Wetlands are fascinating ecosystems where land meets water, and life abounds! Join us for a hike to one of Thacher Park's wetlands, where we will study the plants and animals that thrive in this unique environment, and discuss the integral role that wetlands play in watershed ecology. Appropriate for adults and children 12 and older. Call 518-872-0800 to register. Park entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

Meet at the Main Comfort Station. Join a Park Naturalist for a leisurely walk on the Park's trails. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Wetlands are fascinating ecosystems where land meets water, and life abounds! Join us for a hike to one of Thacher Park's wetlands, where we will study the plants and animals that thrive in this unique environment, and discuss the integral role that wetlands play in watershed ecology. Appropriate for adults and children 12 and older. Call 518-872-0800 to register. Park entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Improve your health while de-stressing by joining us for fast paced walks on our trails every Saturday morning in the summer.

Ages 12 and up

Beginning at the formal garden gate at 2PM each day of the show, a free 20-minute guided tour (weather permitting) highlighting the history of the Lorenzo formal garden will also be offered. For tour information please call Jackie Roshia at (315) 655-3200, ext. 106.

Our Park Naturalist will be leading this month's Full Moon Hike. While walkingaround the lake, we will point out flora and fauna as the sun is setting and themoon is rising. Call for reservations with 24-hour advanced notice, 518-793-0511. Program fees apply.

Our Park Naturalist will be leading this month's Full Moon Hike. While walkingaround the lake, we will point out flora and fauna as the sun is setting and themoon is rising. Call for reservations with 24-hour advanced notice, 518-793-0511. Program fees apply.

Thacher State Park is home to over 25 miles of trails. Explore the trails with our educators on a series of interpretive walks throughout the park. This week we'll experience waterfalls and an old hemlock forest on the Red Trail, and learn about geology and ecology along the way. The rating for this tour is Beginner at 1.25 miles in length. Meet at the Paint Mine parking area. Call 518-872-1237 to register. Park entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

Thacher State Park is home to over 25 miles of trails. Explore the trails with our educators on a series of interpretive walks throughout the park. This week we'll experience waterfalls and an old hemlock forest on the Red Trail, and learn about geology and ecology along the way. The rating for this tour is Beginner at 1.25 miles in length. Meet at the Paint Mine parking area. Call 518-872-1237 to register. Park entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

Join a park environmental educator on a guided nature/history/geology walk one mile up the Gorge Trail to explore the origins and history of the park and gorge. Meet at the beginning of gorge trail at the end of the main entrance area that is located on Franklin St./NYS Route 14. Tours are free and do not require reservations.

10:0am & 1:00pm

No Tours on Monday or Tuesday

This summer, Allegany State Park's Environmental Education Department will offer hikes to view the rare Synchronous Fireflies – once thought to exist in only a handful of places in the world.

The Photinus Carolinus species, also known as the Synchronous Firefly, flashes only from late June to mid-July.

In 2012, the Firefly International Research and Education Team (FIRE Team) came to study the local firefly species, and confirmed its existence in the Branch Creek area of Allegheny National Forest.

Adele Wellman, Lead Naturalist for Allegany State Park, and her team of environmental educators along with numerous volunteers received training necessary to identify this species. The Park Naturalists were able to identify the Synchronous Firefly and confirm its first sighting in New York State.

For information on other programs, please check Allegany State Park's activity schedule at www.facebook.com/alleganystatepark , or call 354-9101 ext. 232.

Meet at Tornado Blowdown area, Site 68.

Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints! Join us for a conservation-themed walk to learn about the different ways to minimize our impact on the land. Welcome to people of all ages and all experi-ence levels. This event is free and meets at the Creekside Classroom.

Perry entrance.

Meet Wednesdays (except as noted) at 10am (4 hours, 2 miles). Letchworth State Park has over fifty miles of boundary line that traverses many scenic hills and dales. Ten miles in five sessions will be explored. Long pants, sturdy footwear (for mud, prickers, poison ivy and stream crossings) and packed lunch or snacks are all recommended. Car-pooling is required.

Perry entrance.

Meet Wednesdays (except as noted) at 10am (4 hours, 2 miles). Letchworth State Park has over fifty miles of boundary line that traverses many scenic hills and dales. Ten miles in five sessions will be explored. Long pants, sturdy footwear (for mud, prickers, poison ivy and stream crossings) and packed lunch or snacks are all recommended. Car-pooling is required.

This summer, Allegany State Park's Environmental Education Department will offer hikes to view the rare Synchronous Fireflies – once thought to exist in only a handful of places in the world.

The Photinus Carolinus species, also known as the Synchronous Firefly, flashes only from late June to mid-July.

In 2012, the Firefly International Research and Education Team (FIRE Team) came to study the local firefly species, and confirmed its existence in the Branch Creek area of Allegheny National Forest.

Adele Wellman, Lead Naturalist for Allegany State Park, and her team of environmental educators along with numerous volunteers received training necessary to identify this species. The Park Naturalists were able to identify the Synchronous Firefly and confirm its first sighting in New York State.

For information on other programs, please check Allegany State Park's activity schedule at www.facebook.com/alleganystatepark , or call 354-9101 ext. 232.

Meet at France Brook Road, Site 29, near the entrance to Camp 12

June 26th, 7:30pm (3 hours, 2 miles). In a less familiar realm of sights and sounds, experience the changing colors and moods in the blending zone of daylight and “nightlight”. Star watching will follow programs, weather permitting. Flashlight recommended. May car pool.

Lowest St. Helena Parking Lot.

June 26th, 7:30pm (3 hours, 2 miles). In a less familiar realm of sights and sounds, experience the changing colors and moods in the blending zone of daylight and “nightlight”. Star watching will follow programs, weather permitting. Flashlight recommended. May car pool.

Lowest St. Helena Parking Lot.

Castile Entrance.

Meet Wednesdays (except as noted) at 10am (4 hours, 2 miles). Letchworth State Park has over fifty miles of boundary line that traverses many scenic hills and dales. Ten miles in five sessions will be explored. Long pants, sturdy footwear (for mud, prickers, poison ivy and stream crossings) and packed lunch or snacks are all recommended. Car-pooling is required.

Castile Entrance.

Meet Wednesdays (except as noted) at 10am (4 hours, 2 miles). Letchworth State Park has over fifty miles of boundary line that traverses many scenic hills and dales. Ten miles in five sessions will be explored. Long pants, sturdy footwear (for mud, prickers, poison ivy and stream crossings) and packed lunch or snacks are all recommended. Car-pooling is required.