497 events matched your search
The Holiday Whodunit
Sunday, December 1, 2024 until Sunday, December 22, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Children ages 6 to 11 become detectives to solve a history mystery. Costumed interpreters throughout the house provide clues to help the detectives discover "whodunit." Kids can enter their solution in a drawing for a prize: a gift certificate to Oblong Books & Music. Timed-entry reservations required:
https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS, Cost: $10 Adults, $8 seniors/students, children 12 & under are free.
Registration: Required
50th Annual Letchworth-Silver Lake Christmas Bird Count
Saturday, December 21, 2024
Letchworth State Park
Interested persons will be searching a
fifteen-mile diameter circle centered on Perry Center, NY. The purpose is to
locate the birds using this area which includes all of Silver Lake and the
northern half of Letchworth State Park. Meet at Perry Center, NY.
Registration: Not required
A Gilded Age Christmas
Saturday, December 21, 2024
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Enjoy Staatsburgh's beautiful interiors, with their original furniture, art and décor, lavishly decorated for the holiday season. Guests can reserve a timed-entry to stroll through the mansion's main floor at their own pace and enjoy the festive decorations. Docents will be stationed throughout the house to answer questions and provide direction. Children on tour can participate in a scavenger hunt and look for decorated mouse houses. The site's shop—filled with wonderful gift items—is available for holiday shopping. Reservations required. No advance ticket purchase required, but reservations for entry necessary. Special programs, evening hours, and program costs: see
https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS for more information and to reserve!
Registration: Required
Solstice Hike to Echo Rock and around Lake Minnewaska at Minnewaska
Saturday, December 21, 2024 09:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Nick Martin, Park
Educator, for an approximately four-mile hike on five historic carriage roads
to reach Echo Rock and circle around most of Lake Minnewaska. Starting from the
Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, we'll hike around the west side of Lake Minnewaska
Carriage Road until we intersect Castle Point Carriage Road. Next, we'll
continue west on this carriage road until we intersect the Hamilton Point
Connector. Then, we'll continue on the Hamilton Point Carriage Road to Echo
Rock, a cliffside, scenic vista that offers an expansive view over the
Palmaghatt Ravine. We will return to Lake Minnewaska by heading back on the
Hamilton Point and Millbrook Mountain Carriage Roads. Once we return to Lake
Minnewaska, we will head towards the south side of the Lake and continue our
return trip along its east side, stopping along the way to take in the view of
the Wallkill Valley. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska
Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
History Hike
Saturday, December 21, 2024 09:45 AM - 12:45 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
(631) 423-1770
Relax and socialize on this hilly, moderately paced 6-mile walk, as we make stops to discuss some spots of historic interest. Dress for the possibility of long grass. Please call for Reservations: (631) 423- 1770.
Registration: Required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, December 21, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Learn how you can take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Solstice Hike
Saturday, December 21, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Celebrate the Winter Solstice at Hempstead Lake! Learn what the solstice is and how it has been celebrated in time immemorial during a nature hike around the lake. Please dress warmly and come prepared for a 3 mile hike. To register, please visit
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Weir Tour
Saturday, December 21, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave., Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk - parking lots nearby). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration:
https://aqueduct.org/events/weir-tour-82.
Registration: Required
Forest Bathing: Solstice Celebration
Saturday, December 21, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Enjoy a mindful stroll in the woods and connect with nature through sensory exploration inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, "forest bathing" and finish with herbal tea as you take a moment to reflect. Led by Mindful Outdoor Guide and certified Forest Therapist, Cindy Olsen, this experience will be an opportunity to celebrate the natural world in honor of the winter solstice. The walk is about 1 mile round trip. Max: 20 people. Ages 18+. Cost: $4. Parking: $6 per vehicle.
RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Beary Merry Holiday
Saturday, December 21, 2024 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Bear Mountain State Park
Come to the
Bear Den at 10:30 to make tasty snacks for the black bears. Celebrate the
holiday season at 11:00 when the bears come out to unwrap their gift boxes full
of delicious treats! Bear Mountain also offers a day of fun at ice rink,
merry-go-round & on the many hiking trails! Rain/snow date Dec. 22nd
Location: Trailside Museums & Zoo
Registration: Not required
Beary Merry Holiday
Saturday, December 21, 2024 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Trailside Museums And Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
Come to the Bear Den at 10:30 to make tasty snacks for the black bears. Celebrate the holiday season at 11:00 when the bears come out to unwrap their gift boxes full of delicious treats! Bear Mountain also offers a day of fun at ice rink, merry-go-round & on the many hiking trails! Rain/snow date Dec. 22nd
Registration: Not required
Holiday Open House
Saturday, December 21, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Come celebrate the holiday season at Clermont! Explore the mansion at your own pace from 11 am – 4 pm. Take in the rooms, beautifully decorated for the holidays, and listen to live traditional music performed by Tamarack. Our knowledgeable guides, dressed in period costume, will be available throughout the house to answer any questions about the mansion, the Livingston family, or the people who lived and worked on the estate. Enjoy warm cider in the Visitor Center while you view our special exhibits "Spero Meliora: Life in The Land of Livingston" and "Redefining The Family: The Livingstons and the Institution of Slavery." Please note: This event is free of charge, but visitors must register in advance at
bookeo.com/Clermont.
Registration: Required
Mineral Springs Tour
Saturday, December 21, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
Join a tour guide at the Creekside Classroom to learn about the mineral springs in the park. Cups will be provided for tasting the springs. Tours meet at Creekside Classroom every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11a.m. unless otherwise specified.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, December 21, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Making a Lantern for Winter Solstice
Saturday, December 21, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511
Drop by the
nature center to learn about the Winter Solstice, why we have it, and how to
make the most out of the shortest day of the year! Pop in anytime from 11-2 to
learn and make a paper lantern, no registration required. If you have any
questions call the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Making a Lantern for Winter Solstice
Saturday, December 21, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511
Drop by the
nature center to learn about the Winter Solstice, why we have it, and how to
make the most out of the shortest day of the year! Pop in anytime from 11-2 to
learn and make a paper lantern, no registration required. If you have any
questions call the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Goat Island Mini Walk
Saturday, December 21, 2024 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Join us
on a mini walk to Stedman's and Porter's Bluff to view all three water falls
that make up Niagara Falls without catching a chill! Registration available at
Eventbrite.com
but not required.
Registration: Required
Solstice Outdoor Ornament Making
Saturday, December 21, 2024 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155
Join us on December 21st to celebrate the shortest day of the year!
We'll be learning about how our feathered friends are surviving the winter and
making birdseed ornaments to put outside for them. This free program is for all
ages and will take place inside the Welcome Center. Please call (518) 279-1155
ahead of time to reserve a spot, as supplies are limited.
Registration: Required
Falala Falls
Saturday, December 21, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Take a break from the cold and visit the Welcome Center for
family fun holiday crafts and an Education Station! No registration
required.
Registration: Not required
Family Movie: A Muppet Christmas Carol
Saturday, December 21, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
(914) 965-4027
Join us for one of the most accurate-to-the-book films of Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." This family-friendly movie is one of our favorites and has Hudson Valley connections! Registration is recommended, but not required. To register, call 914-965-4027 or email philipsemanorhall@parks.ny.gov. Refreshments provided by the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall.
Registration: Required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Saturday, December 21, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Make Tracks to Delta Lake! - What is the NY State mammal? Check out Delta Dam within view of the park. Build a model of a beaver dam. What makes a mammal? Explore the Furs and Tracks of just some of the Mammals of Delta Lake State Park. Make a clay track of a mammal to take home.
Registration: Not required
OLANA Winter Solstice Celebration
Saturday, December 21, 2024 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Come celebrate the changing of the seasons during this special community day from 1:00-5:00pm on Saturday December 21st. Join us at Olana for a series of free opportunities to take in the winter sky and experience the Hudson Valley‘s beautiful winter landscape! Did you know Frederic Church was a star gazer, often including cosmic elements in his landscape paintings? Welcome the winter season by learning more about the way celestial bodies influenced Church. Join sun-gazing with Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association, get a personal astrology reading with Constellation Catskill, and participate in fun sky-centric activities and games.
Registration: Not required
Sun Gazing
Saturday, December 21, 2024 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
View the sun directly through specially equipped solar telescopes from 1:00 PM until sunset (around 4:00 PM). Amateur astronomers from the Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association will help point out sunspots and other solar features using specially designed filters. Please DO NOT attempt to view the sun without a provided specially fitted telescope as it can cause permanent eye damage or total blindness.
Registration: Not required
Astrology Readings
Saturday, December 21, 2024 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Derek James Smith of Constellation in Catskill will share a presentation and discussion around the Astrology of Frederic Church and Olana to kick off the afternoon at 1:00 PM. This introduction will study Church's natal chart to provide an introduction to Astrology's possibilities for aficionados and beginners alike. From 2:00-5:00 PM, Derek will offer interactive outdoor Astrological readings for those curious to learn more about the craft.
Registration: Not required
Holiday Wreath Making
Saturday, December 21, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Shirley Chisholm State Park
Join in some festive
crafting at Hendrix Creek Patio. All materials provided while supplies last.
Registration is
required and opens one week in advance at noon (12/14/2024).
Please email us to join the waitlist if sold out.
Registration: Required
Historical Games
Saturday, December 21, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Stay after the movie for historical games! How did people entertain themselves over the long winter months before the internet, TV, radio, or even electricity? Learn the history behind some of Colonial America's favorite tabletop games, including Mancala, Shut the Box, Nine Man's Morris, Captain's Mistress, Skittles, Dominoes, Cup & Ball, Yo-Yo, Jacob's Ladder, and more. For children and adults. Free! No registration required. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration: Not required
Goat Island Mini Walk
Saturday, December 21, 2024 02:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Join us on a mini walk to Stedman's and Porter's Bluff to
view all three water falls that make up Niagara Falls without catching a chill!
Registration available at
Eventbrite.com but not required.
Registration: Required
WINTER SOLSTICE WALK AND BONFIRE
Saturday, December 21, 2024 03:30 PM - 06:00 PM
Point Au Roche State Park
Join us for
a twilight walk to celebrate the first day of winter and to welcome the longest
night of the year. Then meet at the Nature Center (starting at 4:30pm) for a
bonfire and hot chocolate to toast the transition to longer days returning! Come for the walk, the bonfire, or both! All ages welcome.
Registration: Not required
Solstice Sunset
Saturday, December 21, 2024 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Hamlin Beach State Park
Watch the sunset over Lake Ontario on the
shortest day of the year. Meet at Shelter 3 in Area 3.
Registration: Not required
Evening Hours at the Mansion
Saturday, December 21, 2024 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Experience Staatsburgh State Historic Site at night during special evening hours this holiday season. Guests can reserve a timed-entry spot to stroll through the mansion at their own pace and enjoy live music among the festive decorations. Children can enjoy a scavenger hunt and child-focused decorations. Costumed docents will be stationed throughout the house to answer questions and provide direction. Staatsburgh's popular museum shop will be open for shopping. Reservations required:
https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS, Cost: $ 12/Adults, $ 10/seniors & students, $2 children ages 3 to 12.
Registration: Required
A Gilded Age Christmas
Sunday, December 22, 2024
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Enjoy Staatsburgh's beautiful interiors, with their original furniture, art and décor, lavishly decorated for the holiday season. Guests can reserve a timed-entry to stroll through the mansion's main floor at their own pace and enjoy the festive decorations. Docents will be stationed throughout the house to answer questions and provide direction. Children on tour can participate in a scavenger hunt and look for decorated mouse houses. The site's shop—filled with wonderful gift items—is available for holiday shopping. Reservations required. No advance ticket purchase required, but reservations for entry necessary. Special programs, evening hours, and program costs: see
https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS for more information and to reserve!
Registration: Required
Awosting Falls Winter Walk at Minnewaska
Sunday, December 22, 2024 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
The best prescription to cure cabin fever is to
get outside and enjoy the wonders of winter. Get a taste of the cure by joining
Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for an
approximately two-and-a-half-mile-long walk along the charming
Awosting Falls Carriage Road. Leaving from the Peter's Kill Area, our route
will take us on a slight uphill grade past a towering rock formation and along
the Peter's Kill stream, before reaching our destination, the iconic 65-foot
tall Awosting Falls. If conditions are icy, participants are encouraged to
bring micro spikes or other ice traction devices. They should also dress
appropriately for the cold and bring snacks and water. Meet
at the Peter's Kill Parking Area, 5080 Route 44/55, Gardiner, New York. Pre-registration
is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Mineral Springs Tour
Sunday, December 22, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
Join a tour guide at the Creekside Classroom to learn about the mineral springs in the park. Cups will be provided for tasting the springs. Tours meet at Creekside Classroom every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11a.m. unless otherwise specified.
Registration: Not required
Walking in a Winter Wonderland (Nature Trail)
Sunday, December 22, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511
Join a
Nature Center employee for a 3 mile peaceful walk around the lake. We will ID
any plants and animals we see along the path and learn about the winter
activities of Moreau's regular animal inhabitants. Open to all Ages, just keep
distance in mind. The cost is
$5/adult, $1/child payable by cash or check at the office upon your arrival.
Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Walking in a Winter Wonderland (Nature Trail)
Sunday, December 22, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511
Join a
Nature Center employee for a 3 mile peaceful walk around the lake. We will ID
any plants and animals we see along the path and learn about the winter
activities of Moreau's regular animal inhabitants. Open to all Ages, just keep
distance in mind. The cost is
$5/adult, $1/child payable by cash or check at the office upon your arrival.
Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Evergreens
Sunday, December 22, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
We will explore some local evergreens to find out how they
are pollinated, how to tell the difference between male and female pinecones,
and some basic rules of identification. This will be followed by a short walk
to find some of these fascinating trees. Registration required at
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Camping Stories by the Fire: Kid’s stories
Sunday, December 22, 2024 05:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511
Join an educator by the fire for some
treats and stories! We will have some children's books to read by the fire from
4:00-5:00pm and from 5:00-6:00pm we are encouraging people to bring their
favorite camping stories to tell the group. They can be stories about camping
at Moreau Lake or any New York State Park! The cost is $5/adult, $1/child
payable by cash or check at the office upon your arrival. Please register in
advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Camping Stories by the Fire: 13+ Stories
Sunday, December 22, 2024 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511
Join an educator by the fire for some treats and stories! We will have some children's books to read by the fire from 4:00-5:00pm and from 5:00-6:00pm we are encouraging people to bring their favorite camping stories to tell the group. They can be stories about camping at Moreau Lake or any New York State Park! The cost is $5/adult, $1/child payable by cash or check at the office upon your arrival. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Camping Stories by the Fire: Kid’s stories
Sunday, December 22, 2024 05:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511
Join an educator by the fire for some
treats and stories! We will have some children's books to read by the fire from
4:00-5:00pm and from 5:00-6:00pm we are encouraging people to bring their
favorite camping stories to tell the group. They can be stories about camping
at Moreau Lake or any New York State Park! The cost is $5/adult, $1/child
payable by cash or check at the office upon your arrival. Please register in
advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Camping Stories by the Fire: 13+ Stories
Sunday, December 22, 2024 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511
Join an educator by the fire for some treats and stories! We will have some children's books to read by the fire from 4:00-5:00pm and from 5:00-6:00pm we are encouraging people to bring their favorite camping stories to tell the group. They can be stories about camping at Moreau Lake or any New York State Park! The cost is $5/adult, $1/child payable by cash or check at the office upon your arrival. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Kneehigh Naturalist
Monday, December 23, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511
Geared
toward children aged 3-10, (siblings welcome) Kneehigh Naturalist is a fun
introduction to nature. We meet in the Nature Center where we begin by reading
a book or two and then take a short walk together outdoors, keeping our eyes
open for animal tracks, rocks, feathers, and other signs of the natural world
around us. Dress for the weather. The cost is $1 per child (cash or check) at
the office upon arrival. Please
reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Kneehigh Naturalist
Monday, December 23, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511
Geared
toward children aged 3-10, (siblings welcome) Kneehigh Naturalist is a fun
introduction to nature. We meet in the Nature Center where we begin by reading
a book or two and then take a short walk together outdoors, keeping our eyes
open for animal tracks, rocks, feathers, and other signs of the natural world
around us. Dress for the weather. The cost is $1 per child (cash or check) at
the office upon arrival. Please
reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
LITTLE EXPLORERS – SNOW!
Monday, December 23, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Point Au Roche State Park
Join a park naturalist for our
nature-themed story and playtime for ages 0-5! Come explore with stories,
songs, and art projects from 10-10:30,
then stay for some outdoor playtime! As
we enter the chilliest part of the winter let's learn about the prettiest
precipitation we know – SNOW!
Registration: Not required
Holiday Tuesday Trek: Scenic Mossy Glen Footpath Loop Hike at Minnewaska
Tuesday, December 24, 2024 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Laura Conner,
Environmental Educator, for a peaceful outing in the midst of the busy, holiday
season. The Mossy Glen Footpath section of this approximately three-mile hike
follows along the Peter's Kill stream, through mixed forests and across exposed,
quartz conglomerate rock. This section may include challenging conditions for
some, such as slippery rocks and exposed tree roots. The other half of our walk
will follow the easy-to-walk Lower Awosting Carriage Road. Meet in the Lower
Parking Area. Pre-registration
is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tot Time
Tuesday, December 24, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Explore a different nature theme each week during this free play
group. Story time begins at 10:30am, followed by a short hike at 11am, weather
permitting. Click
here to register!
Registration: Required
Tot Time
Tuesday, December 24, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve
Explore a different nature theme each week during this free play
group. Story time begins at 10:30am, followed by a short hike at 11am, weather
permitting. Click
here to register!
Registration: Required
Drop-by Activities: Owl Pellets
Tuesday, December 24, 2024 12:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Drop by the environmental education center at Green Lakes
State Park (west beach) to discover what owls eat by dissecting an owl pellet!
Registration: Not required
Christmas Day Hike at Big Bend
Wednesday, December 25, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511
Looking
for something different to do this Christmas day? Bundle up and join an
educator on an easy-going, family friendly walk at Big Bend! This hike will go
as long as we can depending on who shows up! At most it could be 3 miles on
flat ground. We may hear and see birds (maybe even an eagle!), animal tracks, shells,
feathers; there's no telling what Nature might gift us with. There is no fee
for this walk, but please reserve your spot in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
We will meet at the park office and caravan to the trailhead.
Registration: Required
Christmas Day Hike at Big Bend
Wednesday, December 25, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511
Looking
for something different to do this Christmas day? Bundle up and join an
educator on an easy-going, family friendly walk at Big Bend! This hike will go
as long as we can depending on who shows up! At most it could be 3 miles on
flat ground. We may hear and see birds (maybe even an eagle!), animal tracks, shells,
feathers; there's no telling what Nature might gift us with. There is no fee
for this walk, but please reserve your spot in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
We will meet at the park office and caravan to the trailhead.
Registration: Required
A Gilded Age Christmas
Thursday, December 26, 2024
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Enjoy Staatsburgh's beautiful interiors, with their original furniture, art and décor, lavishly decorated for the holiday season. Guests can reserve a timed-entry to stroll through the mansion's main floor at their own pace and enjoy the festive decorations. Docents will be stationed throughout the house to answer questions and provide direction. Children on tour can participate in a scavenger hunt and look for decorated mouse houses. The site's shop—filled with wonderful gift items—is available for holiday shopping. Reservations required. No advance ticket purchase required, but reservations for entry necessary. Special programs, evening hours, and program costs: see
https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS for more information and to reserve!
Registration: Required
Space Storytime
Thursday, December 26, 2024 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Gantry Plaza State Park
Explore space with our educators through a story and an experiment. Then, build a spacecraft! Click
here
to
register.
Registration: Required
A Gilded Age Christmas
Friday, December 27, 2024
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Enjoy Staatsburgh's beautiful interiors, with their original furniture, art and décor, lavishly decorated for the holiday season. Guests can reserve a timed-entry to stroll through the mansion's main floor at their own pace and enjoy the festive decorations. Docents will be stationed throughout the house to answer questions and provide direction. Children on tour can participate in a scavenger hunt and look for decorated mouse houses. The site's shop—filled with wonderful gift items—is available for holiday shopping. Reservations required. No advance ticket purchase required, but reservations for entry necessary. Special programs, evening hours, and program costs: see
https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS for more information and to reserve!
Registration: Required
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, December 27, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
Wiggly
Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers,
carriable babies and their caregivers. This will be a beginner's hike/wander
series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and
caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if
their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet
at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. Registration is not required
for this program.
Registration: Not required
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, December 27, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Wiggly
Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers,
carriable babies and their caregivers. This will be a beginner's hike/wander
series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and
caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if
their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet
at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. Registration is not required
for this program.
Registration: Not required
Learn to Cross-Country Ski
Friday, December 27, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Evangola State Park
Learn the basics of cross-country skiing before going on a
short, guided ski tour. Ages 10 and up. We have a limited number of skis to
borrow. Registration required at
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Mineral Springs Tour
Friday, December 27, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
Join a tour guide at the Creekside Classroom to learn about the mineral springs in the park. Cups will be provided for tasting the springs. Tours meet at Creekside Classroom every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11a.m. unless otherwise specified.
Registration: Not required
Crafts with the Friends
Friday, December 27, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Come
to the nature center for some more crafting on your winter break! Fun for all
ages. This program is free and registration is not required.
Registration: Not required
CURE FOR CABIN FEVER
Friday, December 27, 2024 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
Explore the Museum's
exhibits and take a guided tour of the historic Washington's
Headquarters. Children of all ages can drop-in and create their own
WHIRLIGIG. Take-home craft is free with Museum Admission.
Registration: Not required
Drop-by Activities: We all Need Trees
Friday, December 27, 2024 12:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Drop
by the environmental education center at Green Lakes State Park (west beach) to
play our sorting game! Can you tell which items are from trees and which are
not?
Registration: Not required
Meet the Evergreens: White Pine, Hemlock, Cedar, Spruce, Balsam...
Friday, December 27, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Join Environmental
Educator Katie on a walk to meet the evergreens of Green Lakes State Park.
Along the way hear stories about evergreens, including how they became
Christmas trees.
The walk will be between 1-2 miles on easy to moderate trails.
Wear warm clothes and boots.
Environmental Education Center/West Beach.
Registration: Not required
5th Annual Granger-Hunt Christmas Bird Count
Saturday, December 28, 2024
Letchworth State Park
Interested persons will be searching a
fifteen-mile diameter circle centered in Granger, NY. The purpose is to locate
the birds using this area which includes a section of the Genesee River and the
southern half of Letchworth State Park. Meet at Granger, NY.
Registration: Not required
A Gilded Age Christmas
Saturday, December 28, 2024
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Enjoy Staatsburgh's beautiful interiors, with their original furniture, art and décor, lavishly decorated for the holiday season. Guests can reserve a timed-entry to stroll through the mansion's main floor at their own pace and enjoy the festive decorations. Docents will be stationed throughout the house to answer questions and provide direction. Children on tour can participate in a scavenger hunt and look for decorated mouse houses. The site's shop—filled with wonderful gift items—is available for holiday shopping. Reservations required. No advance ticket purchase required, but reservations for entry necessary. Special programs, evening hours, and program costs: see
https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS for more information and to reserve!
Registration: Required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, December 28, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Learn how you can take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Mineral Springs Tour
Saturday, December 28, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
Join a tour guide at the Creekside Classroom to learn about the mineral springs in the park. Cups will be provided for tasting the springs. Tours meet at Creekside Classroom every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11a.m. unless otherwise specified.
Registration: Not required
Wildlife Slumber Party
Saturday, December 28, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Nature Center Put on your PJs and stop by to celebrate the hibernators that live in Thacher Park! Enjoy some hot chocolate and a campfire, try a snow experiment and learn how wildlife gets ready for the winter. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, December 28, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Wildlife Slumber Party
Saturday, December 28, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center Put on your PJs and stop by to celebrate the hibernators that live in Thacher Park! Enjoy some hot chocolate and a campfire, try a snow experiment and learn how wildlife gets ready for the winter. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Wildlife Slumber Party
Saturday, December 28, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center Put on your PJs and stop by to celebrate the hibernators that live in Thacher Park! Enjoy some hot chocolate and a campfire, try a snow experiment and learn how wildlife gets ready for the winter. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
CURE FOR CABIN FEVER
Saturday, December 28, 2024 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
Explore the Museum's
exhibits and take a guided tour of the historic Washington's
Headquarters. Children of all ages can drop-in and create their own
WHIRLIGIG. Take-home craft is free with Museum Admission.
Registration: Not required
Wonderful Winter Wildlife
Saturday, December 28, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Shirley Chisholm State Park
Learn about how
animals survive the cold season! We'll play fun games and look for signs of
wildlife during a short hike. This program is designed for children ages 6-12. Click
here for more information.
Registration: Not required
Winter Wildlife Hike
Saturday, December 28, 2024 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Join an educator on a short hike looking for signs of
Green Lakes' wildlife. Along the way we'll explore some examples of the clues
that animals leave behind. Bring the whole family!
The hike will be
along part of the lake trail, up or down a flight of stairs, over a grass/snowy
field and along paved pathways. It will be less than 1 mile. Meet at the
Environmental Education Center/West Beach.
Registration: Not required
A Gilded Age Christmas
Sunday, December 29, 2024
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Enjoy Staatsburgh's beautiful interiors, with their original furniture, art and décor, lavishly decorated for the holiday season. Guests can reserve a timed-entry to stroll through the mansion's main floor at their own pace and enjoy the festive decorations. Docents will be stationed throughout the house to answer questions and provide direction. Children on tour can participate in a scavenger hunt and look for decorated mouse houses. The site's shop—filled with wonderful gift items—is available for holiday shopping. Reservations required. No advance ticket purchase required, but reservations for entry necessary. Special programs, evening hours, and program costs: see
https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS for more information and to reserve!
Registration: Required
Morning Light on the Cliff: Hike the Beacon Hill and Lake Minnewaska Loop at Minnewaska
Sunday, December 29, 2024 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for
an approximately three-mile loop hike on the Beacon Hill Carriage Road, Beacon
Hill Footpath, and Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road. Starting at the Lake
Minnewaska Visitor Center, we'll walk to the Beacon Hill Carriage Road, a quiet
route through the woods with a gorgeous view at the end. Next, we'll hike along
the cliff-edge Beacon Hill Footpath, which features stunning views of the
Wallkill Valley. Once we finish the hike, we'll walk along the Lake Minnewaska
Carriage Road, heading around the south and then the west side of the Lake. The
footpath section of this hike includes some hills as well as areas of bare rock
and exposed tree roots that maybe slippery. Participants should bring water and
snacks and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor
Center. Pre-registration is required by
calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Winter Bird Walk
Sunday, December 29, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
What can we spot flying in Winter skies? Come find out! We will walk along the lake and learn about some of the bird species that may be spotted across Long Island at this time of year. Participants are encouraged to bring their own binoculars. To register, please visit
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Mineral Springs Tour
Sunday, December 29, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
Join a tour guide at the Creekside Classroom to learn about the mineral springs in the park. Cups will be provided for tasting the springs. Tours meet at Creekside Classroom every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11a.m. unless otherwise specified.
Registration: Not required
Beginner Stargazing
Sunday, December 29, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Join us for stargazing at the Gericke Farm: 2876 Arthur
Kill Rd, Staten Island, NY 10309. Learn about different constellations,
the stories behind them, and view them through our telescope! All ages. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
Beginner Stargazing
Sunday, December 29, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve
Join us for stargazing at the Gericke Farm: 2876 Arthur
Kill Rd, Staten Island, NY 10309. Learn about different constellations,
the stories behind them, and view them through our telescope! All ages. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
Eagle Watch
Monday, December 30, 2024 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511
Join a park educator on a convoy-style
journey along the Hudson River to try to spot our local Bald Eagles. We will be
getting in and out of vehicles at a few locations and, with a little luck,
viewing the eagles through binoculars and a scope so make sure to bring your
hat and gloves! If you have binoculars bring them, we do have a couple of pair
to pass around as well. The cost is $5 per adult payable by cash or check at
the office upon your arrival. Please register in advance by calling
518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Eagle Watch
Monday, December 30, 2024 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511
Join a park educator on a convoy-style
journey along the Hudson River to try to spot our local Bald Eagles. We will be
getting in and out of vehicles at a few locations and, with a little luck,
viewing the eagles through binoculars and a scope so make sure to bring your
hat and gloves! If you have binoculars bring them, we do have a couple of pair
to pass around as well. The cost is $5 per adult payable by cash or check at
the office upon your arrival. Please register in advance by calling
518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Beaver Hike
Monday, December 30, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511
Did
you know that MLSP is home to a thriving population of North America's largest
rodent? We will walk along the Wetlands Walk and Mud Pond trails where we can
view our beaver's dam and lodges while we learn all about how they live, love,
and learn. This program is for people of all ages, it's an easy-moderate hike
of about 2.5 miles. Pay $1child and $5/adult (cash or check) at the office upon arrival.
Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Beaver Hike
Monday, December 30, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511
Did
you know that MLSP is home to a thriving population of North America's largest
rodent? We will walk along the Wetlands Walk and Mud Pond trails where we can
view our beaver's dam and lodges while we learn all about how they live, love,
and learn. This program is for people of all ages, it's an easy-moderate hike
of about 2.5 miles. Pay $1child and $5/adult (cash or check) at the office upon arrival.
Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Tuesday Trek: Morning Light on the Cliff: Hike the Beacon Hill and Lake Minnewaska Loop at Minnewaska
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
End the year on a joyous note by joining Laura
Conner, Environmental Educator, for an approximately three-mile loop hike on
the Beacon Hill Carriage Road, Beacon Hill Footpath, and Lake Minnewaska
Carriage Road. Starting at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, we'll walk to
the Beacon Hill Carriage Road, a quiet route through the woods with a gorgeous
view at the end. Next, we'll hike along the cliff-edge Beacon Hill Footpath,
which features stunning views of the Wallkill Valley. Then, we'll walk along the
Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road, heading around the south and then the west side
of the Lake. The footpath section of this hike includes some hills and some
areas of bare rock and exposed tree roots that maybe slippery. Participants
should bring water and snacks and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Meet at the
Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration
is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at
845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tot Time
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Explore a different nature theme each week during this free play
group. Story time begins at 10:30am, followed by a short hike at 11am, weather
permitting. Click
here to register!
Registration: Required
Tot Time
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve
Explore a different nature theme each week during this free play
group. Story time begins at 10:30am, followed by a short hike at 11am, weather
permitting. Click
here to register!
Registration: Required
Free Play
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Spend some time with your little one in the Center's classroom. An educator will be present, but the time and space is yours- play with our toys, put together our puzzles, or read one of our storybooks. The hour is what you make of it! To register, please visit
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Reptile Profile
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511
Join
an educator in the nature center to meet our resident reptiles! We at Moreau
take care of six New York native turtles and three snakes that cannot be
released into the wild and are wonderful little educators. Learn about their
exciting lives, what they like to eat, and what they use for shell-ter at the
Nature Center. This program is for all ages. The cost is $5 for adults, $1 for
children (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please reserve your spot 24 hours in advance by calling the
office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Reptile Profile
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511
Join
an educator in the nature center to meet our resident reptiles! We at Moreau
take care of six New York native turtles and three snakes that cannot be
released into the wild and are wonderful little educators. Learn about their
exciting lives, what they like to eat, and what they use for shell-ter at the
Nature Center. This program is for all ages. The cost is $5 for adults, $1 for
children (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please reserve your spot 24 hours in advance by calling the
office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Last Day Hike
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 03:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Fort Niagara State Park
Bring in the New Year while we enjoy a walk through one of
our wooded paths and watch the last sunset of 2024! Registration required at
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
New Gear’s Eve Bike Ride
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Allegany State Park - Red House Area
Begins at Camp
Allegany on December 31, 2024 at 6:00 pm, with the ride starting at 6:30
pm. Grab your bike and some friends to join Allegany
staff and WNYMBA members for the last ride of
the year. Bring lights, wear warm and reflective gear and a helmet.
Participants may be split into different paced groups, if necessary. No one
will be left behind. There will be a social to follow the ride in the
Recreation Hall at Camp Allegany. Bring your own dish to share. Tableware will
be provided. Questions: Call the Environmental
Education Department (716) 379-6939.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike: Moderate Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155
A moderate 2-mile hike along Shaver Pond. This trail will have rocks, possibly wet/icy areas and will require sturdy boots and have micro spikes on hand. This trail will take 1.5 hours. Meet-up Location: Grafton Lakes welcome center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome. Call 518-279-1155 to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Shirley Chisholm State Park
Hikers should be prepared to walk up to 2.5 miles on both gravel and paved trails, with gradual inclines. Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes are encouraged, as well as water and whatever else someone needs to be comfortable. There are benches and picnic tables along the way, and we will stop to chat periodically at sites along the hike. Meet-up Location: Hendrix Creek Patio on the Penn side of the park, Approximate distance of hike: 2.5 miles, No pets. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800
Explore Thacher Park on a winter wonderland hike! Then, warm up by the fire with some hot cocoa. Dress appropriately for conditions. Prepare to bring snowshoes/traction aids if conditions warrant. There will be a limited amount of snowshoes available. Inclement weather (such as high winds, snow/ice or extreme cold) may postpone this event. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Gilbert Lake State Park
Self-guided hike/ski/snowshoe around the Gilbert Lake trail or outer trails. Dress for the weather and wear smart footwear for outdoor activities, there may be snow, ice, slush and/or mud. If we've had enough snow, we'll have the road around the lake snow-blown for easy walking. The fires will be roaring in the Briggs pavilion to warm you up after your outdoor adventure and snacks and hot beverages will be provided. Meet-up Location: Briggs Pavilion at Gilbert Lake, Approximate distance of hike: 1-3 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Lorenzo State Historic Site
Bring your binoculars and boots (or snowshoes) for a 1.5-mile hike around the mansion, garden, and rolling fields in search of winter birds and wildlife that call this historic landscape home. Meet-up Location: Visitor Parking Lot, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 Miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Mine Kill State Park
(518) 827-6111
The hike will follow a moderate difficulty wooded dirt trail with some periods of steep elevation change. The trail will lead to a creek with waterfalls. At the waterfalls, we will rest a minute at some rock seats before continuing. Hikers should prepare for cold and icy conditions with layers and footwear with good tread. Additionally, hikers should bring plenty of water and a snack. Meet-up Location: Mine Kill Park Office, Age Minimum: 8, Approximate distance of hike: 3 miles, Leashed pets welcome. For reservations please email minekillsp@parks.ny.gov or call (518) 827-6111.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Start your New Year with an invigorating 1.5 mile walk along the Hudson River across the beautiful landscape of Rockwood Hall. The hike is guided by Larry Trachtenberg of the Sawmill River Audubon Society, We will keep an eye out for winter birds including both bald eagles and the red tailed hawks often seen in this part of the preserve. Dress warmly since it is always colder by the Hudson and bring binoculars if you have them. Suitable for ages 6+. No pets please. This hike is at Rockwood Hall, DO NOT go the main Preserve entrance. If heavy rain/ice/snow or road closures occur, the walk will be cancelled. You will be notified by email the day before. Cost: Free, registration required. Tickets will be available mid-December.
RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Selkirk Shores State Park
Wear sturdy shoes or boots and dress in layers. Self-guided trail through woods will be suggested, but all trails open to hike. If snow, snowshoes will be available for rental at office or bring your own. No running bathrooms or water available so plan accordingly. Popcorn and hot chocolate available while supplies last. Meet-up Location: Selkirk Shore Park Office, Approximate distance of hike: .5 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Seneca Lake State Park
The hike will be on a level, paved trail along the lakeshore. Hikers should dress for the weather but no special footwear will be required. There are benches and picnic tables along the route. Seneca Lake State Park will provide hot and cold cider and hot chocolate, plus snacks for the hike. Come early and have a seat by the fires! Meet-up Location: Shelter #2, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Connetquot River State Park Preserve
Designated as the first "State Park Preserve" in New York, Connetquot River encourages the long-term protection of our ecological, cultural, and historic resources. This hike will be 4-5 miles long. Please wear long pants and sturdy shoes. The hike will be on uneven gravel and unpaved trails. This is a much harder hike then usual. Dress in layers and bring water. Meet-up Location: Connetquot River State Park Preserve Club House Porch, Age Minimum: 8+, Approximate distance of hike: 4-5 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:30 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 all day on over nine miles of nature trails...choose your own adventure! Easy, guided hikes will be offered at 9:30am and 1:00 p.m. Snowshoes will be provided if conditions allow. Please dress for weather and bring walking poles if needed. Please call 315 482-2479 to preregister or with questions. Meet-up Location: Nature Center Visitors Services Desk, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Begin 2025 with a First Day Hike at Minnewaska! Join us for a two-and-a-half-mile hike in the Peter's Kill Area, which is located one mile east of the main entrance for Minnewaska. From the parking area, we will hike on the Red Loop, Bullwheel, and High Peter's Kill Footpaths to reach two scenic vistas. If the weather is clear, these scenic vistas offer stunning views of the Park Preserve, Clove Valley, the Catskill Mountains, and beyond. This hike includes a few moderate uphill sections and rocky terrain that some may find challenging. If conditions are icy, participants are encouraged to bring micro spikes or other ice traction devices and to dress appropriately for the cold. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet-up Location:5080 Route 44/55, Gardiner, New York, Approximate distance of hike: 2.5 Miles, No pets. For more information or to register, please call the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Robert Moses State Park - Long Island
This hike will be four miles long on the sand. This is a difficult hike. Please dress for the weather and remember that it is always colder at the beach. Meet-up Location: Field 2Age Minimum: 10+, Approximate distance of hike: 4 miles, no pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Wellesley Island State Park
(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 all day on over nine miles of nature trails...choose your own adventure! Easy, guided hikes will be offered at 9:30am and 1:00 p.m. Snowshoes will be provided if conditions allow. Please dress for weather and bring walking poles if needed. Please call 315 482-2479 to preregister or with questions. Meet-up Location: Nature Center Visitors Services Desk, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Allegany State Park - Red House Area
The hike will be on the bike path around Red House Lake. It is an unplowed surface, so please dress for the weather and be sure to wear appropriate footwear and/or snowshoes. The Friends of Allegany State Park will provide hot dogs, chips, hot chocolate, and coffee from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m Meet-up Location: Red House Picnic Pavillion, Approximate distance of hike: 3 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bear Mountain State Park
This hike will start at the Bear Mountain Inn, in front of the Hiker's Cafe. We will follow the Appalachian Trail for 1.5 miles to the top of the mountain and Perkins Memorial Tower. There we will pause and take in the view. We will then return to the Inn via the Appalachian Trail. There may be porta-potties at the top of the Mountain (they are tied to seasonal weather) but there will be no running water. We will have prompt bathroom use at the start of the trail. Water and good trail shoes are essential and trail snacks are recommended. Parking will be at Bear Mountain Inn and will cost 10$ per car. Meet-up Location: In front of the Hiker's Cafe at the Bear Mountain Inn. Age Minimum: 8+, Approximate distance of hike: 3 Miles Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bethpage State Park
Come join us on a New Year's Day hike through Bethpage State Park. Look for signs of rabbits, hawks, fox, and owls along the trail. Bring water & snack; hike goes in rain, snow, or shine, only blizzard cancels. Exit points each mile will be posted along the way to allow you to shorten the hike length and return to the parking lot. Meet-up Location: Picnic Area, Approximate distance of hike: 5-7 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bowman Lake State Park
Please dress appropriately for the weather, relatively level ground, through mature timberland with towering white pines. Meet-up Location: Nature Center, Approximate distance of hike: 6.6 Miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Catharine Valley Trail
Very easy walk will occur on flat, cindered, multi-use portion of trail between Watkins Glen (Fairgrounds Lane) and Montour Falls (Rt 14). Children welcomed but must be accompanied by an adult. Warm hiking/walking shoes recommended, as well as cold-weather clothing. Meet-up Location: Intersection of Catharine Valley Trail and Fairgrounds Lane Rd, Approximate distance of hike: 3 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
This 4-5 mile hike will take place on unpaved trails that some may find to be difficult. There will also be a large focus on nature at Caumsett State Historic Park Perserve. Meet-up Location: Flag pole by the main office, Age Minimum: 8+, Approximate distance of hike: 4-5 miles, no pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Conservation Trail Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Darien Lakes State Park
Enjoy
the beginning of the new year with a leisurely 2-mile hike through the
woodlands of Darien Lakes State Park! Take in the frosty sights along the trail
and enjoy hot cocoa by the campfire at the end of the hike.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Dress warm for a mile-long hike through the woods of Fox Run connecting to the campground between loops A and B then back on a hidden trail passing one of the shelters, finishing at the beach. Most of the terrain will be flat, woodchipped trails with some paved areas between. Visitors may rest at picnic tables in the Fox Run picnic area or at the shelters, as well as benches available with a beautiful view of the beach shoreline. Refreshments available at the heated Four Seasons room after the hike. Meet-up Location: 4 seasons room at The Beach House, Approximate distance of hike: 1 mile, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
Park's First Day- PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
DeVeaux Woods State Park
Walk the DeVeaux Woods trails with leashed canine friends! Notice nature signs and tracks along the way as we discuss the old growth forest and a bit of history about the park. Meet-up Location: Parking Lot Next to Dog Park and Playground Approximate distance of hike: .75 miles Leashed pets welcome. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800
Join us for a 1.6-mile hike past waterfalls and through evergreen forests. Ideal for participants seeking a quieter and more physically engaging route with wildlife viewing opportunities. This hike will travel over foot trails containing occasional moderate inclines, with several opportunities for rest along the way. Participants are invited to bring traction devices (microspikes, snowshoes, etc.) in case of snowy/icy conditions. Call 518-872-0800 for registrations and trail conditions. Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center between 12pm-12:30pm.Meet-up Location: Hop Field Warming Hut, Approximate distance of hike: 1.6 miles, No pets.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800
Join us for a 1-mile hike atop the Helderberg Escarpment. This family friendly route is ideal for participants seeking a less physically engaging route and expansive views of the Hudson Valley. This hike will travel over well-maintained gravel/grass trails with an occasional slight incline. Participants are invited to bring traction devices (microspikes, snowshoes, etc.) in case of snowy/icy conditions, as well as wind-proof layers to protect against potentially brisk winds. Call 518-872-0800 for registrations and trail conditions. Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center between 12pm-12:30pm.Meet-up Location: Thacher Park Visitor Center, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, No pets.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Evangola State Park
The New Year brings with it endless possibilities and opportunities. Start the year off with a sense of renewal and enjoy a First Day Hike with us on the beach. Please be aware, wind and cold may be more intense along the waterfront. Please dress according to the weather and layers are recommended. Meet-up Location: Warm up room at the Bathhouse, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, No pets. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fort Niagara State Park
Join us for a walk to welcome the New Year along Lake Ontario where we'll see migrating waterfowl and traverse the trail along the shore. Meet-up Location: Pool House, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles Leashed pets welcome. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fort Ontario State Historic Site
A walk of the 33-acre property. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. There are benches throughout the property to sit and rest. Meet-up Location: Outside the front gate of the Old Stone Fort, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
Ramble through FDR State Park with your guide Terence Ducey for a fun and fact filled First Day Hike at 10am. Easy 2-mile hike, no pre-registration, leashed pets only! Dress in warm layers with hats and gloves. Meet up in North end of pool parking lot. Free of charge.
Registration: Not required
2025 First Day Hike – Avon (Erie-Attica Parking lot off of Rt 5)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
(585) 493-3614
Ring in the New Year exploring the Erie-Attica Trail and
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park on a self-guided hike! Stop by for a hot
dog, snacks, beverages, and a warm fire! This easy, 2+ mile round-trip hike
welcomes all ages and leashed pets. Severe weather updates can be found on the
park's Facebook page. Please dress weather-appropriate, and feel free to bring
snowmobiles, snowshoes, or skis if there is snow. Participate in the statewide
Martin Luther King Jr. Food Drive by bringing a non-perishable food item to the
meet-up location.
Porta-jon onsite. To register please contact Kristine Uribe, Park Manager 585-493-3614.
Registration: Required
2025 First Day Hike – Fillmore (Music Way, next to Shop n’ Save)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
Ring in the New Year with a hike along the Genesee River on
the Genesee Valley Greenway! A warm fire, s'mores, and hot chocolate await you
at the end of this easy, 3+ mile round-trip hike. This event is open to all
ages and leashed pets. Severe weather updates can be found on the park's
Facebook page. Please dress weather-appropriate, and feel free to bring
snowmobiles, snowshoes, or skis if there is snow. Participate in the statewide
Martin Luther King Jr. Food Drive by bringing a non-perishable food item to the
meet-up location.
Porta-jon onsite. To register please contact RevupHume@gmail.com.
Registration: Not required
2025 First Day Hike – Hinsdale (Hinsdale Methodist Church, Main St)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
(585) 493-3614
Join us for an easy
yet invigorating 3-mile round-trip walk along a secluded section of the trail
heading east along Oil Creek. This hike will be led by members of the Hinsdale
Historical Society, who will serve hot chocolate afterward. The event is open
to all ages and leashed pets. Severe weather updates can be found on the park's
Facebook page. Please dress weather-appropriate, and feel free to bring
snowmobiles, snowshoes, or skis if there is snow. Participate in the statewide
Martin Luther King Jr. Food Drive by bringing a non-perishable food item to the
meet-up location. Bathrooms available onsite. To register please contact
Kristine Uribe, Park Manager 585-493-3614.
Registration: Required
2025 First Day Hike – Mt Morris (LivCo Basecamp & Visitor Info Center, corner of Rt 408 & Rt 36, Mt Morris)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
(585) 493-3614
Ring in the New Year
with a nice easy hike along the Greenway! Meet up at the newest venture from
Livingston County Tourism, the LivCo Basecamp & Visitor Info Center. This
hike offers a distance of 1.5 to 4.5 miles, depending on your pace, and is open
to all ages and leashed pets. Severe weather updates can be found on the park's
Facebook page. Please dress weather-appropriate, and feel free to bring
snowmobiles, snowshoes, or skis if there is snow. Participate in the statewide
Martin Luther King Jr. Food Drive by bringing a non-perishable food item to the
meet-up location. Sweet Arts Bakery will be on site and open for business. Bathrooms available onsite. To register please contact Kristine
Uribe, Park Manager 585-493-3614.
Registration: Required
2025 First Day Hike – Nunda (Nunda Highway Department, 1955 Hay Rd, Nunda, 14517)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
(585) 493-3614
Ring in the New Year
with a 3-mile hike on the only loop available within the 90-mile Greenway! The
Branch Trail is fixed and ready for exploration. This easy hike is open to all
ages and leashed pets. Severe weather updates can be found on the park's Facebook
page. Please dress weather-appropriate, and feel free to bring snowmobiles,
snowshoes, or skis if there is snow. Participate in the statewide Martin Luther
King Jr. Food Drive by bringing a non-perishable food item to the meet-up
location. Bathrooms available on site.To register please contact Kristine
Uribe, Park Manager 585-493-3614.
Registration: Required
2025 First Day Hike – Scottsville (Canawaugus Park, Village of Scottsville)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
(585) 493-3614
Ring in the New Year
with a nice easy hike along the Greenway! Meet up at Canawaugus Park for a 2-4
mile round-trip hike that's open to all ages and leashed pets. Severe weather
updates can be found on the park's Facebook page. Please dress weather-appropriate,
and feel free to bring snowmobiles, snowshoes, or skis if there is snow.
Participate in the statewide Martin Luther King Jr. Food Drive by bringing a
non-perishable food item to the meet-up location. To register please contact Kristine Uribe, Park Manager 585-493-3614.
Registration: Required
2025 First Day Cocoa & Cookie Stroll (Brook Rd Parking lot, 30 Brook Rd, Rochester, 14623)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
Genesee Land Trust invites people of all ages and abilities
to kick off the New Year with a special cocoa toast (bring mug) to celebrate the return of the fisher to Brookdale
Preserve. The fisher, a key member of the forest ecosystem, was once nearly
hunted to extinction but is now making a comeback thanks to conservation
efforts. This event will feature a stroll along the Genesee Valley Greenway
State Park trail, where you'll have the opportunity to search for signs of the
fisher while learning more about this fascinating tree-climbing critter. The hike is 2-4 miles round trip, with the option to
go up to 4 miles (2 miles to the scenic double-arched stone culvert, then 2
miles back). This family-friendly event allows participants to move
at their own pace and for as long or short as they like. Be a part of the statewide Martin Luther King Jr. Food
Drive by bringing a non-perishable food item. Accessibility: If you have a disability or medical
condition, contact Genesee Land Trust at info@geneseelandtrust.org for
assistance. An ADA porta potty and accessible parking are available. To register please click
here.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Glimmerglass State Park
After checking in at the park office at 10:00am for swag/giveaways, hikers will head towards the beach. From there, they can hike the Beaver Pond Trail (0.5 mile easy walk). We will have a small bonfire near Beaver Pond and some hot cocoa. If you don't want to hike on the Beaver Pond Trail, we have other trails to check out. Please bring proper clothing, footwear, hiking poles and your camera! Meet-up Location: Glimmerglass State Park Office, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Hallock State Park Preserve
Join the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society for a beach
clean-up and cold-stun sea turtle monitoring walk on the Long Island Sound beachfront of Hallock State Park
Preserve. We will start with a short presentation in the Visitor Center on sea
turtles that frequent Long Island waters and discuss what humans can do to help
them survive. Beach walk and clean-up will take place unless there is excessive
wind, cold, or precipitation. Trash pickers & buckets will be provided.
Bring your own gloves. Refreshments provided.
Participants
are invited to bring non-perishable food items to support the Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr. New York State Parks Food Drive.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Hamlin Beach State Park
Participants should dress warmly as it can be windy along the lake. Meet-up Location: Shelter 1, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Join our educators at Hempstead Lake State Park for a hike around the lake! The hike will leave from the observation tower at promptly 10:00 a.m. Hikers should dress for the weather and wear shoes that are comfortable for a 3-mile hike on bridle paths and sand trails. Visitors are encouraged to bring water and a small snack. Please be advised that there are no benches located on the lake loop. Following your walk around the lake, warm up in the Environmental Education and Resiliency Center, where museum galleries, exhibits, restrooms, and general park information are available. Meet-up Location: Field 1 area, at the Observation Tower next to the lake, Approximate distance of hike: 3 miles, No leashed pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike to Hogsback Overlook
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
First Day Hike to Hogsback Overlook 10:00am – 11:30am: Enjoy a guided hike along the Highbanks Trail with great views of the Mt. Morris Canyon. The Hogsback Overlook provides great views of a unique geological feature within Letchworth State Park, Meet-up Location: South Highbanks Shelter, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike: Waterfalls Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
First Day Waterfalls Hike 10:00am – 12:00pm: Join us for a hike along the Portage Canyon to Inspiration Point, the Glen Iris Fountain, and Middle Falls. This more moderate hike offers incredible views and explores the heart of the park. Meet-up Location: Humphrey Nature Center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Two hikes depending on the weather. One inner trail and a second longer hike of the outer loop trail. Meet-up Location: Traffic Circle near the historic house, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Jones Beach State Park
Meet us at Field 10 to learn all about the seals that visit Long Island. Walk along the beach and watch out for swimming seals. Educators will be ready with a scope to point out these magnificent marine mammals. Wear layers, gloves, hats, and scarves because wind conditions along the bay can make the walk extra chilly. Bring binoculars if you have them. There are no open bathrooms at this site, but the Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center is a short drive down the road and will have open bathrooms. This walk is on sand and not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers. We will have educators stationed at the accessible docks that are by the water. Meet-up Location: Jones Beach Field 10, Approximate distance of hike: .5 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Lakeside State Park
Participants should dress warmly as it can be cold and windy along the lake and wear footwear that they are okay with getting muddy. There are areas of the walk that are somewhat sloped, but there are no major hills. Meet-up Location: The day use side shelter, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike to Hogsback Overlook
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Letchworth State Park
First Day Hike to Hogsback Overlook 10:00am – 11:30am: Enjoy a guided hike along the Highbanks Trail with great views of the Mt. Morris Canyon. The Hogsback Overlook provides great views of a unique geological feature within Letchworth State Park, Meet-up Location: South Highbanks Shelter, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike: Waterfalls Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Letchworth State Park
First Day Waterfalls Hike 10:00am – 12:00pm: Join us for a hike along the Portage Canyon to Inspiration Point, the Glen Iris Fountain, and Middle Falls. This more moderate hike offers incredible views and explores the heart of the park. Meet-up Location: Humphrey Nature Center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Hikers should wear appropriate clothes for the weather, waterproof hiking shoes, and micro spikes if they have them. Bring water and a snack. We will be hiking around our beautiful Moreau Lake starting the hike all together at the park office. There will be a section of the hike that allows people to split off if they want to make it a shorter loop of about 2.1 miles or they can continue on the longer hike of 3 miles, and both will end either at the Warming Hut or back at the park office. The "shorter" loop is 2.1 miles and will consist of paved road, elevation gain/loss of only about 100 feet, the pavement eventually brings us into the woods with some roots, but a clear hard path, and about halfway there is a bridge with some benches. The hikers have the option to stop at the warming hut for hot chocolate and treats on the way back, or they can go straight back to the office. The "longer" loop is 3 miles and will start on the same path as the shorter loop, but will split off near the bridge and continue deeper into the woods where there will be more roots and a meandering trail on hard packed terrain. The longer loop does not have any benches and has an elevation gain/loss of only 200 feet. This hike will also have the option to stop at the warming hut on the way back or they can go back to the park office. Meet-up Location: Park Office, Approximate distance of hike: 2.1-3 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Hikers should wear appropriate clothes for the weather, waterproof hiking shoes, and micro spikes if they have them. Bring water and a snack. We will be hiking around our beautiful Moreau Lake starting the hike all together at the park office. There will be a section of the hike that allows people to split off if they want to make it a shorter loop of about 2.1 miles or they can continue on the longer hike of 3 miles, and both will end either at the Warming Hut or back at the park office. The "shorter" loop is 2.1 miles and will consist of paved road, elevation gain/loss of only about 100 feet, the pavement eventually brings us into the woods with some roots, but a clear hard path, and about halfway there is a bridge with some benches. The hikers have the option to stop at the warming hut for hot chocolate and treats on the way back, or they can go straight back to the office. The "longer" loop is 3 miles and will start on the same path as the shorter loop, but will split off near the bridge and continue deeper into the woods where there will be more roots and a meandering trail on hard packed terrain. The longer loop does not have any benches and has an elevation gain/loss of only 200 feet. This hike will also have the option to stop at the warming hut on the way back or they can go back to the park office. Meet-up Location: Park Office, Approximate distance of hike: 2.1-3 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike with the “Dogs of Olana”
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Olana State Historic Site
Celebrate the New Year with expansive views and your best friend! Channel 19th century artist Frederic Church's taste for exploration during a special pup-friendly hike of the winter landscape at Olana State Historic Site. Explore Olana's 250-acres with your furry friend in tow. Please note, all dogs must be kept on a leash during their time at Olana and the site is a carry in carry out facility. Begins at the Wagon House Education Center at the historic farm complex at the bottom of the site and covers about 1 mile with an uphill portion; please wear weather-appropriate apparel and comfortable footwear. Check out other #DogsofOlana on our Instagram at @OlanaFredericChurch. Hot beverages (coffee, tea, and hot chocolate) and sketching materials will be provided in the Wagon House Education Center as part of our First Day Hike celebration. FREE, registration
required. For more information, please contact education@olana.org or call (518) 751-6938.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Orient Beach State Park
Dress for cold weather. If raining the morning of, please call the park office at 631-323-2440 to confirm if the hike is still happening. The hike will follow flat terrain along the beachfront observing local birds and animals.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Peebles Island State Park
We'll hike the two miles around the perimeter of Peebles Island, but shorter hikes might be available based on interest. Some hikes will discuss the Native American presence on the Island, its significance during the Revolutionary War, and other history of this strategic site. Hikes for people who prefer just to walk our beautiful trails will also be available. Dress for the weather and bring cameras and binoculars for a chance to see wildlife. Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome. Registration is not required, but an email to friendsofpeebles@gmail.com with the number of people in your group would be appreciated. Meet-up Location: In front of the visitors center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Saratoga Spa State Park
Start off the New Year with a fun, family friendly hike through Saratoga Spa State Park! Participants will be introduced to some of the park's most unique features on this moderate 1.5-mile hike. Hot cocoa will be provided in the Creekside Classroom at the conclusion of the hike. This event is free. Please dress for the weather. Registration is required. Please email Allison.Schweizer@parks.ny.gov to register. Meet-up Location: Creekside Classroom on Geyser Loop Road, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Taughannock Falls State Park
Start off the New Year by making a healthy resolution you will love to keep: a breathtaking hike to Taughannock Falls on the Gorge Trail! If you are up for more of a challenge, you can continue up to the Overlook on the North Rim trail, across to the multi-use trails and then make your way back to the parking lot. Fun facts and park trivia signs will be placed along the trails. Plan on being outside for at least an hour (more if you hike all five miles), please dress for the weather, bring water and wear appropriate footwear. Park staff will greet hikers at the start of the Gorge Trail by NYS Route 89. Meet-up Location: Gorge Trail Parking Lot, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 - 5 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800
Join us for a 1.6-mile hike past waterfalls and through evergreen forests. Ideal for participants seeking a quieter and more physically engaging route with wildlife viewing opportunities. This hike will travel over foot trails containing occasional moderate inclines, with several opportunities for rest along the way. Participants are invited to bring traction devices (microspikes, snowshoes, etc.) in case of snowy/icy conditions. Call 518-872-0800 for registrations and trail conditions. Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center between 12pm-12:30pm.Meet-up Location: Hop Field Warming Hut, Approximate distance of hike: 1.6 miles, No pets.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800
Join us for a 1-mile hike atop the Helderberg Escarpment. This family friendly route is ideal for participants seeking a less physically engaging route and expansive views of the Hudson Valley. This hike will travel over well-maintained gravel/grass trails with an occasional slight incline. Participants are invited to bring traction devices (microspikes, snowshoes, etc.) in case of snowy/icy conditions, as well as wind-proof layers to protect against potentially brisk winds. Call 518-872-0800 for registrations and trail conditions. Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center between 12pm-12:30pm.Meet-up Location: Thacher Park Visitor Center, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, No pets.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Two Rivers State Park Recreation Area
Please dress for the weather/conditions. More details to follow as the New Year approaches. This is hike will be on your own - with an initial destination to make it to for refreshments by a certain time - then you may hike around the park on your own. We'd love to get a group photo at the Overlook Deck, so please meet the group at the Waverly Glen to get instructions and hike with the group to begin. Meet-up Location: Waverly Glen Amphitheater, Approximate distance of hike: 2+ Miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike: Hike Around the Trout Pond
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
First Day Hike Around Trout Pond 10:30am – 12:00pm: Hike a loop around Trout Pond, the human-enhanced wildlife habitat, fishing pond, and water source for the fountain at the Glen Iris Inn. This moderate hike covers mostly flat ground but follows a complete loop around Trout Pond. Experience the hushed, densely fern-covered pine woods in their winter slumber beside the beautiful pond. Meet-up Location: Humphrey Nature Center, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike: Hike Around the Trout Pond
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Letchworth State Park
First Day Hike Around Trout Pond 10:30am – 12:00pm: Hike a loop around Trout Pond, the human-enhanced wildlife habitat, fishing pond, and water source for the fountain at the Glen Iris Inn. This moderate hike covers mostly flat ground but follows a complete loop around Trout Pond. Experience the hushed, densely fern-covered pine woods in their winter slumber beside the beautiful pond. Meet-up Location: Humphrey Nature Center, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
Yonkers First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Celebrate the New Year with an intermediate-level 2.5 mile
hike through downtown Yonkers. Your guide, Liesbeth Drewes, will pay tribute to
the Yonkers of old – the City of Hills. Explore the natural landscape hidden
and revealed by Yonkers today. From Philipse Manor Hall, we'll head up the hill
to the Old Croton Aqueduct, with stunning views of the Palisades and a bird's
eye view of the meandering last leg of the Saw Mill River watershed before it
enters the Hudson River. Hear a few fun facts about the changing cityscape
around this river and some of its inhabitants, including what was once an
island overrun with chickens! We'll return via the old town Getty Square, once
the site of many watermills, and over the bridge to Manor House Square. Coffee,
hot chocolate, tea will be served at Philipse Manor Hall afterwards. For
parking and more information, visit
https://www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events/first-day-hike-2024.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Robert G. Wehle State Park
(315) 938-5302
We will head down the Wehle Road to the Snakefoot Trail and follow the trail along the shore of Lake Ontario. Then we will come back out to Wehle Road and back to the maintenance building. The terrain is mostly level. We will have lunch in the maintenance building after the hike. Meet-up Location: Mainenance Building, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome. For registration call the park office at 315-938-5302.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 10:45 AM - 02:00 PM
Clark Reservation State Park
Different levels of guided hikes will be offered: The easy hike (about an hour) will be on mostly flat or slightly inclined ground; the moderate and challenging hikes (2-3 hours) will be over rough terrain, including steep, rocky slopes and fissured rock. Also offered this year will be a "Walking with Wildlife" hike, with the hike leader pointing out various signs of wildlife during the hike. Clark Reservation is a wild area; seating is available only in the two pavilions. Meet-up Location: Large pavilion. Approximate distance of hike: 2-4 mile, Leashed pets welcome. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Bike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Allegany State Park - Red House Area
Next Level
Mountain Biking will be leading a ride in the Red House area. Meet at the Camp
Allegany at 11:00 am on January 1, 2025. The pace and the length of the ride will be moderate and be determined
by the participants. Participants may split into different paced groups, if
necessary. No one will be left behind. Fat tire bikes are suggested, given the
range of conditions likely to be present, however, use your best judgement for
the conditions of the day. Questions: Contact Kristian Reiber
at nextlevelmountainbiking@gmail.com or 716-785-2685.
Registration: Not required
2025 First Day Hike – Town of York (York Landing Parking Area)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
(585) 493-3614
This event offers three starting points for a hike that will
all end with a delicious lunch and campfire celebration at the York Landing
Parking Area at 12:15 pm. All hikes will showcase unique views of farmland,
forest, and the Genesee River. Piffard, Rt 63 – Yard of Ale restaurant parking
lot (3226 Genesee St, Piffard 14533) – hike north 2.8 miles, Fowlerville, Fowlerville Rd (coordinates:
42.891654, -77.823686) – hike south 2.6 miles, York, York Landing Parking Area (coordinates:
42.864631, -77.851023) – hike north/south
The hikes range from 2 to 6 miles and are open to all ages
and leashed pets. Severe weather updates can be found on the park's Facebook
page. Please dress weather-appropriate, and feel free to bring snowmobiles,
snowshoes, or skis if there is snow. Participate in the statewide Martin Luther
King Jr. Food Drive by bringing a non-perishable food item to the meet-up
location. If you're too full to walk back to your starting point, a ride can be
arranged from one of the cohosts. Porta-jon
available onsite. To register please contact Kristine Uribe, Park Manager 585-493-3614.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve
Ring in the New Year with beautiful scenery and fresh air of the Hudson Highlands down at the Hudson River's shoreline!! Join us on New Year's Day starting at 11 a.m. for free hot cocoa, coffee, snacks, music, fireside warmth, short naturalist-led hikes around Little Stony Point (about 1 mile), or a hike to nearby historic Cornish Estate (3 miles round-trip). Little Stony Point Volunteer Center at 3011 NY-9D, Cold Spring, NY 10516LSPCA -
www.littlestonypoint.org. NYS Parks -
https://parks.ny.gov/events/first-day-hikes.aspx. Hikes commence at 11:30 am // No fee event //Free snacks, coffee & hot cocoa. Leashed pets allowed //Easy to moderate terrain //All ages welcome. Dress warmly and wear proper trail footwear.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve
Choose from two differe hikes at Little Stony Point Beach 1.) Scenic overlook on the Hudson River, easy to moderate terrain (1.5 miles); 2.) Hike to Cornish Estate/Farm Ruins, easy to moderate terrain (2.5 to 3 miles). Sturdy footwear helpful for both hikes, and warm outerwear recommended. Cocoa, coffee, and treats will be provided; there will be warm fire pits and music to entertain all at the start of the event, beginning 11 am. Meet-up Location: Washburn Parking Lot, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Nyack Beach State Park
Three hikes will be available starting from the Nyack Beach Bath House and parking lot: An easy, accessible hike out and back hike along the Nyack River Trail with benches available; A moderate 3 mile hike on the Boulders Loop with stone steps to climb and bog bridges to cross along the way; The rocky and moderately strenuous Upper Nyack Trail hike that leads up Hook Mountain. Please click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Point Au Roche State Park
Welcome in the New Year by exploring the nature trails and looking for wildlife in the diverse habitats of the park. There will be two hikes available: a 3-mile hike, and a 1-mile walk at slower pace. All ages and abilities are welcome! All trails are easy terrain. If we have snow, there may be snowshoe options, Meet-up Location: Nature Center, Approximate distance of hike: 3 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Join park staff for a hike on the woodland trail within Mills State Park (the historic grounds of Staatsburgh State Historic Site). The hike will launch from near the mansion and include a visit to a small, little-known cemetery in the woods. The hike will return near the mansion for optional cocoa, courtesy of the Friends of Mills at Staatsburgh. Free, minimum age 12, leashed pets welcome, 1.2 miles moderate hike. To register (required), please go to
www.Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Please join us for our 14th Annual First Day Hike. Come see the amazing views of the Hudson Valley from 212 feet above the Hudson River. Two hike distances offered – a short one to the flagpole and a longer one on a modified 360 loop trail. This hike (modified Walkway Loop) will be approximately 3.0 miles. Participants will travel along the Walkway, down the elevator, along the Hudson River, over the Mid-Hudson Bridge and back to the park via Haviland Road. Free, leashed pets welcomed, no registration required, and fun for all ages. For more information, please contact 845-834-2867.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Gantry Plaza State Park
Join us for a guided tour of the waterfront led by Jessica Sechrist from Hunters Point Parks Conservancy and Angela Stangenberg from NY State Parks. We'll meet at the plaza in the northern end of Gantry Plaza State Park (where Anable Basin meets the East River, close to the intersection of Center Blvd and N. Basin Road:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/GqCV5n8nUEGGwzSv8).We'll walk through Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter's Point South Park, discussing their history, ecology, environmental impact, and role in the community, and end at the Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike: Moderate Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155
3-Mile round trip hike to Dickinson Hill Fire Tower. This guided hike has a 500ft elevation gain and is expected to be wet/icy depending on temperature. Hikers should have warm layers, sturdy boots and traction devices. The hike will start at 12pm and last until 3pm. Call 518-279-1155 to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike: Accessible Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155
An easy accessibility friendly hike along the ADA trail. The trail is one mile long and will take 45 minutes with educational breaks. Please dress for the weather. Meet-up Location: Grafton Lakes welcome center, Approximate distance of hike: 1 mile, Leashed pets welcome. Call 518-279-1155 to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Celebrate 2025 at Green Lakes State Park! The park has a easy flat trail that goes right around the edge of the lake. The gravel path along Green Lakes is two miles in total and is wheelchair and stroller friendly. Take in the picture perfect views of the natural meromictic lake. Please stop into the Environmental Education Center to pick up some First Day Hike goodies. Meet-up Location: Environmental Education Center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Join us for a walk to welcome the New Year along the Niagara Gorge where we'll see nature in winter as we take the accessible pathway to Whirlpool State Park. Meet-up Location: Parking Lot Next to Dog Park and Playground Approximate distance of hike: .75 miles, Leashed pets welcome. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Wilson-Tuscarora State Park
Join a park naturalist on a casual stroll through the old growth forest of Wilson Tuscarora State Park, located right off Lake Ontario. Meet-up Location: Wilson Tuscarora Community Room, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, No pets. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Chenango Valley State Park
Walk the park and discuss some of the historical aspects to the buildings/park development. The hike will be approximately 2.5-3 miles. Moderate level, with no real difficult spots along the trails. Always remember that it's easier to overdress and then take layers off rather than not dress warm enough. And you may want to consider bringing along a drink/snack with you for energy and hydration while hiking. Be prepared for the weather conditions - proper footwear, gloves/scarf/hat if necessary. Hike will happen in the rain/snow/sun. Meet-up Location: Great Hall Building, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
This is a two-mile hike at Clay Pit Ponds. Please wear sneakers or hiking boots and bring layers! As you hike, your body will warm up and you may want to shed your outer layers. Note that this hike is not stroller friendly. Meet-up Location: Clay Pit Ponds Nature Interpretive Center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, No pets. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve
This is a two-mile hike at Clay Pit Ponds. Please wear sneakers or hiking boots and bring layers! As you hike, your body will warm up and you may want to shed your outer layers. Note that this hike is not stroller friendly. Meet-up Location: Clay Pit Ponds Nature Interpretive Center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, No pets. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Crown Point State Historic Site
Join us at Crown Point State Historic Site for a First Day Hike highlighting historic landscape features and winter wildlife set against the natural beauty of Lake Champlain. This hike will take visitors across the flat peninsula, and may include some moderate inclines and rocky terrain. Hikers should dress for the weather and wear warm, waterproof boots appropriate for winter hiking. Meet-up Location: Crown Point State Historic Site Museum, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 Miles Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
Park's First Day- Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Become a Junior Archeologist! An Introduction to the History of Delta Lake State Park - Discover the history of the people who lived in the area of Delta Lake State Park long ago. Explore artifacts of the Native Americas who hunted and fished here in the summers. Go on an archeology dig to find arrowheads left behind. Study pictures and postcards of the people of Delta Village who were here before Delta Dam. Make a picture postcard to mail to friends about your visit to Delta Lake State Park.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800
Join us for a 1-mile hike atop the Helderberg Escarpment. This family friendly route is ideal for participants seeking a less physically engaging route and expansive views of the Hudson Valley. This hike will travel over well-maintained gravel/grass trails with an occasional slight incline. Participants are invited to bring traction devices (microspikes, snowshoes, etc.) in case of snowy/icy conditions, as well as wind-proof layers to protect against potentially brisk winds. Call 518-872-0800 for registrations and trail conditions. Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center between 12pm-12:30pm. Meet-up Location: Thacher Park Visitor Center Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, No pets.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800
Join us for a 1.6-mile hike past waterfalls and through evergreen forests. Ideal for participants seeking a quieter and more physically engaging route with wildlife viewing opportunities. This hike will travel over foot trails containing occasional moderate inclines, with several opportunities for rest along the way. Participants are invited to bring traction devices (microspikes, snowshoes, etc.) in case of snowy/icy conditions. Call 518-872-0800 for registrations and trail conditions. Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center between 12pm-12:30pm.Meet-up Location: Hop Field Warming Hut, Approximate distance of hike: 1.6 miles, No pets. Call 518-872-0800 to register.
Registration: Required
2025 First Day Hike – Cuba (Bull St., Cuba by gazebo)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
(716) 378-1923
Enjoy a delightful
2.5-mile round-trip walk along Genesee Valley Greenway State Park with the one
and only Mike Landowski! Hikers are invited to The Palmer Opera House, 12 Main
St., Cuba (1/2 mile from Bull St.), afterwards for refreshments, warmth, and restrooms.
This easy hike welcomes all ages and leashed pets. Severe weather updates can
be found on the park's Facebook page. Please dress weather-appropriate, and
feel free to bring snowmobiles, snowshoes, or skis if there is snow.
Participate in the statewide Martin Luther King Jr. Food Drive by bringing a
non-perishable food item to the meet-up location. To register please contact Michelle
Conklin - Palmer Opera House 716-378-1923.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Hamlin Beach State Park
Participants should dress warmly as it can be windy along the lake. Meet-up Location: Shelter 1, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Herkimer Home State Historic Site
Join us New Year's Day for a scenic hike along the Old Erie Canal! This year's hike will be a two-mile walk along the Empire State Trail in the footprint of the historic canal. Don't forget to dress for the weather as we will be walking rain or shine. Afterwards, stop into the visitor center and warm up with some refreshments and start the year off right! Meet-up Location: Herkimer Home Visitors Center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day: Canyon Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
First Day Canyon Hike 1:00pm – 3:00am: View the park's deepest canyon, the Great Bend Canyon, from several vantage points along the Gorge Trail. Learn about what makes Letchworth State Park so unique from both a natural and historical perspective. Meet-up Location: Humphrey Nature Center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike - Mt. Morris Dam
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
Join us for a guided hike with wonderful gorge views and interesting perspectives of the Mt. Morris Dam. Learn all about the dam's functions and its importance to communities between Letchworth State Park and the City of Rochester. Meet-up Location: South Highbanks Shelter, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Knox Farm State Park
Embrace a feeling of renewal as you kick off the year with a refreshing First Day Hike at Knox Farm. Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. Registration required. To register, please visit
eventbrite.com and search #KnoxFarmStatePark, Meet-up Location: Main Parking Lot, Approximate distance of hike: 2.5 miles, No pets.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Knox Farm State Park
Embrace a feeling of renewal as you kick off the year with a refreshing First Day Hike at Knox Farm. Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. Registration required. To register, please visit
eventbrite.com and search #KnoxFarmStatePark, Meet-up Location: Main Parking Lot, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Required
First Day: Canyon Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Letchworth State Park
First Day Canyon Hike 1:00pm – 3:00am: View the park's deepest canyon, the Great Bend Canyon, from several vantage points along the Gorge Trail. Learn about what makes Letchworth State Park so unique from both a natural and historical perspective. Meet-up Location: Humphrey Nature Center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike - Mt. Morris Dam
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Letchworth State Park
Join us for a guided hike with wonderful gorge views and interesting perspectives of the Mt. Morris Dam. Learn all about the dam's functions and its importance to communities between Letchworth State Park and the City of Rochester. Meet-up Location: South Highbanks Shelter, Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 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 all day on over nine miles of nature trails...choose your own adventure! Easy, guided hikes will be offered at 9:30am and 1:00 p.m. Snowshoes will be provided if conditions allow. Please dress for weather and bring walking poles if needed. Please call 315 482-2479 to preregister or with questions. Meet-up Location: Nature Center Visitors Services Desk, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, Leashed pets.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike at Sam’s Point
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
(845) 647-7989
Begin the New Year with a First Day Hike at Sam's Point! What better way to start off 2025 than with an invigorating snowshoe outing for the entire family! Join an approximately three-mile loop hike through the scenic Park Preserve. Snowshoes may be rented for this program for a fee of $5 per person. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike. If renting snowshoes, please arrive early. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Pre-registration is required by calling the Sam's Point Visitor Center at 845-647-7989. Meet-up Location: Sam's Point Visitors Center, Approximate distance of hike: 3 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Newtown Battlefield State Park
Please bring water and dress for the weather/conditions. More details to come closer to the New Year! We'll have a guided hike or you may hike on your own - we'd love to grab a group photo before everyone heads out on their hikes so be sure to meet at the Lodge and we'll get started together. Refreshments to follow at the Lodge. Port-a-john's will be available. Meet-up Location: Main Lodge, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike in the Afternoon
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Celebrate the New Year by exploring expansive views at Olana State Historic Site! Channel 19th century artist Frederic Church's taste for exploration during this special hike of the winter landscape and explore Olana's 250-acres. Hot beverages (coffee, tea, and hot chocolate) and sketching materials will be provided in the Wagon House Education Center as part of our First Day Hike celebration. Begins at the Wagon House Education Center at the historic farm complex at the bottom of the site and covers about 1 mile with an uphill portion; please wear weather-appropriate apparel and comfortable footwear. FREE, registration
required. For more information, please contact education@olana.org or call (518) 751-6938.
Registration: Required
First Day of the Year Croton Dam Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Start the year on the right foot! Enjoy a free, easy, 2 miles/2 hours (total) loop hike north along the Aqueduct and atop the beautiful Croton Dam. Meet near the restrooms at the rear (south end) of the parking lot at Croton Gorge Park, Rte. 129, Cortlandt, NY. 10567, GPS Coordinates: 41°13′ 20.46" N -73°51′12.59" W. The leader of the hike will discuss the history and construction of the Old Croton Aqueduct and the features of the Croton Dam, the trailhead of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail. The Aqueduct was completed in 1842 to supply fresh water to a thirsty New York City. (From Metro-North Hudson Line Croton-Harmon Train Station: 15-minute taxi.) Required: preregistration:
https://aqueduct.org/events/first-day-year-croton-dam-hike-0.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Peebles Island State Park
We'll hike the two miles around the perimeter of Peebles Island, but shorter hikes might be available based on interest. Some hikes will discuss the Native American presence on the Island, its significance during the Revolutionary War, and other history of this strategic site. Hikes for people who prefer just to walk our beautiful trails will also be available. Dress for the weather and bring cameras and binoculars for a chance to see wildlife. Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome. Registration is not required, but an email to friendsofpeebles@gmail.com with the number of people in your group would be appreciated. Meet-up Location: In front of the visitors center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site
Start at the Sackets Harbor Battlefield's historic Union Hotel building 401 West Main St., corner of West Main and Ray Sts. Open 1pm to 3pm to pick up a suggested hike route map and "giveaway" gift. The map is also on the NY State Parks website, Sackets Harbor Battlefield page under "maps." Dress for the weather conditions, especially waterproof footwear. In case of icy conditions, the hike will be cancelled. Meet-up Location: 401 West Main St., Sackets Harbor NY Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
(518) 829-7516
Start off the New Year right by joining site manager Paul Banks for a First Day Hike at Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site. The hike starts at the Visitor Center (129 Schoharie St. Fort Hunter, NY 12069) at 1 pm and should wrap up around 3-3:30 pm. This hike is rated as easy since we will be walking to the east end of the site on the tow paths trod by many a mule along the historic Erie Canal and walking back on the Empire State Trail. FYI, snow or ice on the ground may change the hike to a snowshoe with less distance or require traction aids. Please bring water and snacks and anything else you want on a hike including all New Year's resolutions! Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a short leash, controlled and cleaned up after. Montgomery County public health law requires rabies vaccination. For questions or more information, please call the site at 518-829-7516 or email us at SchoharieCrossing@parks.ny.gov. Please join us!, Meet-up Location: Schoharie Site Visitor Center, Approximate distance of hike: 5.25 miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Taconic State Park - Copake Falls Area
Moderate, 4-mile hike there and back, from Copake Falls Park Office to Bash Bish Falls, MA. Moderate elevation changes with uneven/natural terrain, hikers should wear 6" lace up boots, plenty of layers, and bring crampons/spikes if there are icy conditions. Spikes will not be provided by park - participants are responsible for proper footwear and attire. There are memorial benches along the last .75 mile that can be used for rest, otherwise stopping along the route is always permitted if needed. No hiker left behind. There will be an alternative, easier hike available to those that desire a more leisurely stroll, details will be provided prior to the event. A bonfire with s'mores and hot chocolate will be available for hikers upon their return to the park office. Registration is not required, but highly encouraged so that we can have adequate supplies. Meet-up Location: Copake Falls Park Office Approximate distance of hike: 4 Miles, Leashed pets welcome.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800
Join us for a 1.6-mile hike past waterfalls and through evergreen forests. Ideal for participants seeking a quieter and more physically engaging route with wildlife viewing opportunities. This hike will travel over foot trails containing occasional moderate inclines, with several opportunities for rest along the way. Participants are invited to bring traction devices (microspikes, snowshoes, etc.) in case of snowy/icy conditions. Call 518-872-0800 for registrations and trail conditions. Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center between 12pm-12:30pm.Meet-up Location: Hop Field Warming Hut, Approximate distance of hike: 1.6 miles, No pets. Call 518-872-0800 to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800
Join us for a 1-mile hike atop the Helderberg Escarpment. This family friendly route is ideal for participants seeking a less physically engaging route and expansive views of the Hudson Valley. This hike will travel over well-maintained gravel/grass trails with an occasional slight incline. Participants are invited to bring traction devices (microspikes, snowshoes, etc.) in case of snowy/icy conditions, as well as wind-proof layers to protect against potentially brisk winds. Call 518-872-0800 for registrations and trail conditions. Hot chocolate will be available at the Visitor Center between 12pm-12:30pm. Meet-up Location: Thacher Park Visitor Center Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, No pets.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Wellesley Island State Park
(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 all day on over nine miles of nature trails...choose your own adventure! Easy, guided hikes will be offered at 9:30am and 1:00 p.m. Snowshoes will be provided if conditions allow. Please dress for weather and bring walking poles if needed. Please call 315 482-2479 to preregister or with questions. Meet-up Location: Nature Center Visitors Services Desk, Approximate distance of hike: 1 miles, Leashed pets.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Heckscher State Park
This hike takes place on an easy unpaved trail. Please dress for the weather with long pants and sturdy shoes. Meet-up Location: Field 3, Approximate distance of hike: 2-2.5 miles, no pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Sunken Meadow State Park (Governor Alfred E. Smith)
Take a two-mile hike on paved paths at Sunken Meadow State Park. Remember to dress for the weather; it's always colder by the water. Meet-up Location: Field One at the Nature Center, Approximate distance of hike: 2 miles, No pets.
Registration: Not required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Fort Niagara State Park
Join us for a walk to view the Niagara River and War of 1812 Cemetery, and to see the lighthouse and Old Fort Niagara from the parking lot. There will be a tour of the Officer's Club to view the paintings and visit the museum displays. Old Fort Niagara is closed on New Year's Day. Accessible entrance to Officers' Club available. Meet-up Location: Officers Club, Approximate distance of hike: <1 miles, No pets. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Whirlpool State Park
Ring in the New Year by taking a walk along the top of the gorge from Whirlpool State Park to Devil's Hole State Park and back! Meet-up Location: Main Pavilion, Approximate distance of hike: 4 miles, No pets. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
First Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Enjoy the first day of the New Year with your leashed dog at Niagara Falls State Park! Take a leisurely walk from Prospect to Terrapin Point and take in the extraordinary views of all three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls. Meet-up Location: Welcome Cente Approximate distance of hike: 1.5 miles. Leashed pets welcome. Click
here to register.
Registration: Required
Drop-by Activities: Winter Recreation
Thursday, January 2, 2025 12:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Looking
for some winter fun? Drop by the environmental education center at Green Lakes
State Park to discover some of the fun ways to recreate in our parks this
winter. If there is enough snow try out our snowshoes!
Registration: Not required
CURE FOR CABIN FEVER
Friday, January 3, 2025 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
Explore the Museum's
exhibits and take a guided tour of the historic Washington's
Headquarters. Children of all ages can drop-in and create their own
WHIRLIGIG. Take-home craft is free with Museum Admission.
Registration: Not required
Drop-by Activities: Track Match
Friday, January 3, 2025 12:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Do
you know what different animal tracks look like? Drop by the environmental
education center at Green Lakes State Park (west beach) to test out your
tracking skills by playing our track match game.
Registration: Not required
Seventh Annual Minnewaska-Shawangunk (NYMS) Christmas Bird Count
Saturday, January 4, 2025
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is a bird census, first
proposed in December 1900 by ornithologist Frank Chapman. The first CBC was
held on December 25, 1900, with 27 participants. The CBC is the
oldest citizen science project in the United States, and this is its 125th year.
Participants in the CBC spend the day listening, looking for, and counting
birds within a predetermined area. The 7th annual NYMS
(Minnewaska-Shawangunk) Christmas Bird Count circle is one of thousands of
other circles in North America, Central America, South America, the Pacific,
and the Caribbean, that participate in this winter tradition. Interested
parties will be searching a 15-mile diameter circle for birds, which includes
most of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Field teams should
be prepared for a full day outdoors. Residents with bird feeders within
the Minnewaska-Shawangunk CBC circle may also participate by counting birds at
their feeders, however, participation must be coordinated prior to the count.
See a map of the circle at:
https://arcg.is/1bqrPK0. Contact Nicholas Martin at Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov or
845-255-0752 no later than December 28th for an assignment or to
learn how to report your bird feeder count.
Registration: Required
CIRCLE OF SEASONAL SIGHTINGS
Saturday, January 4, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Hamlin Beach State Park
Keep track of the timing of natural events throughout the
new year by creating a phenology wheel. All materials will be provided; no
prior knowledge is necessary! Meet at Shelter 1 in Area 1.
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
Eating Seasonally Lecture
Saturday, January 4, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Start the new year off with healthy eating habits! Learn about the fruits and vegetables that are in season throughout the year, the benefits of eating seasonally, and participate in a recipe swap incorporating your favorite produce.
Registration: Not required
Bark Owls
Saturday, January 4, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Niagara Falls State Park
This craft is a HOOT! Join us in the Education
Center for the nature-inspired craft while learning about the different owls
found in our region and how to identify them! Materials for craft will be
provided. Registration
required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, January 4, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, January 4, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in January, February, and March, weather permitting. It is
designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing as a
new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee, who
will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are
available to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the
Sam's Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
CURE FOR CABIN FEVER
Saturday, January 4, 2025 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
Explore the Museum's
exhibits and take a guided tour of the historic Washington's
Headquarters. Children of all ages can drop-in and create their own
WHIRLIGIG. Take-home craft is free with Museum Admission.
Registration: Not required
Story Time & Games
Saturday, January 4, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us at 12:00 PM for story time with librarians from the Yonkers Public Library! Then stay afterwards for historical games, fun for all ages. Explore how people played in the past with games like mancala, shut the box, skittles, quoits, cup and ball, and more. This program is free and open to the public, sponsored by the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall. Registration is not required. Learn more at
www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Drop-by Activities: Mammal Match
Saturday, January 4, 2025 12:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Up
for a challenge? Can you identify an animal by its fur? How about its skull?
Drop by the environmental education center at Green Lakes State Park (west
beach) to play our sorting game!
Registration: Not required
Wildflower Trivia
Saturday, January 4, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Escape the cold air and welcome in the new year with
thoughts of the colorful petals to come! Relax and play wildflower trivia to
learn all about unique flowers and the seasonality of our common blooms. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sleepy Hollow Loop Walk along the Aqueduct and within the Rockefeller Preserve
Saturday, January 4, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, open-air walk of approximately 3 miles/hours. Meet at Aqueduct Ventilator #12, on the Aqueduct Trail just steps south of the intersection of Gory Brook Road and Ridge Street in Sleepy Hollow (on-street parking on Gory Brook Road). We will walk north and discuss the Aqueduct and view some of its structures, including a weir, a 90-foot high embankment carrying the Aqueduct over the Pocantico River, the ghostly remnants of an old Keeper's House, touch upon Rockefeller history and the monument in nearby Sleepy Hollow Cemetery to those in the NY Guard's First Provisional Regiment who perished during the 1918 Spanish Influenza pandemic while guarding the Aqueduct during The Great War. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration:
https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=268.
Registration: Required
Afternoon Sun Snowshoe Outing at Sam’s Point
Saturday, January 4, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
(845) 647-7989
Join Rebecca Howe-Parisio, Environmental
Educator, for an interpretive snowshoe hike on Loop Road. We'll hike up the
west side of Loop Road and around Lake Maratanza, with the Sam's Point Vista
being our last stop, for sunset conditions. Most of the terrain on this
three-mile hike is fairly level, but there are some short, steep sections.
Please bring a snack, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather.
Snowshoes are available to rent at a discounted price of $5 per person at the
Visitor Center. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the
age of 18. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be
offered as a hike and participants are strongly encouraged to bring micro
spikes or other ice traction devices. Meet
at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is
required by calling the Sam's Point Visitor Center at
845-647-7989.
Registration: Required
TWELFTH NIGHT!
Saturday, January 4, 2025 04:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Crailo State Historic Site
An evening of
merriment for everyone! Special Twelfth Night festivities will highlight the
holiday season as it may have been celebrated by the 17th and 18th
century residents of early Groenenbosch! Come and revel in the holiday
traditions of our past with live music, Star singing, traditional fare, bonfire
(weather permitting) and more! Then cross the river where the celebration
continues at Schuyler Mansion! Snow date: Sunday., 1/5, 4 – 7 p.m.
Single-Site
Admission: $7.00 Adults /
$6.00 Seniors & Students / $1.00 Children (12 and under)
Combo
Admission (to both Crailo and Schuyler Mansion): $8.00 Adults / $7.00 Seniors &
Students / $2.00 Children (12 and under)
Registration: Not required
Nature Journaling
Sunday, January 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Feed your curiosity with a nature journaling class! Educators will introduce the topic of nature journaling before participants dive into prompts. Notebooks will be provided.
Registration: Not required
Scenic Streamside Hike at Minnewaska
Sunday, January 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Laura Conner,
Environmental Educator, for a loop hike in the wintry woods. During this
approximately three-and-a-half-mile outing on the Mossy Glen Footpath,
participants will walk through the forest, following near the edge of the
Peter's Kill stream. Along the way, we'll look for animal tracks, floating ice
pancakes and hanging icicles; all part of the magic of winter. The footpath can
be tricky footing, with icy patches and exposed tree roots, but the route along
Lower Awosting Carriage Road is flat and relatively easy. Participants are strongly encouraged to
bring microspikes or other ice traction devices. Meet at the Lower Parking
Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake
Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, January 5, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Yoga is back! Ring in a healthier new year with our Morning Hatha Yoga class, Sundays at 10:30 AM. The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Fee is $18/class, registration available at
www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
SNOWFLAKING MAKING
Sunday, January 5, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Hamlin Beach State Park
Learn about the science of
snowflakes and create and color 3D snowflakes to keep! Meet at Shelter 1 in
Area 1.
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
Expert’s Eye: The Sky and Beyond with Avis Lang
Sunday, January 5, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Join experts for a series of dialogues on paintings from OLANA's collection that are worth a closer look. During each gallery conversation, experts working in fields of science, art education, ecology, and indigenous history will share what they discover within a picture's frame. This first talk will feature Avis Lang, former senior editor at Natural History magazine and coauthor with Neil deGrasse Tyson, for a conversation on what can be learned from examining Frederic Church's sky paintings and expanding one's vision upward.
Register.
Registration: Required
Bird is the Word Walk
Monday, January 6, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
We'll take a walk along the Schoharie Creek to look for
birds and see how many species we can identify on a winter's morning. During this informal walk, we'll watch for birds in and along the creek as well
as agricultural borderlands.
Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions and
wear proper supportive/warm footwear.
Moderate to heavy snowfall, ice, or rain may cancel or
postpone this program.
Registration: Not required
Museum Monday
Monday, January 6, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Join us inside the Pathway to Empire exhibit for World
Technology Day. This Museum Monday program will explore some of the technology
used to construct the original 1820's Erie Canal. Doors open at 11am and
there will be a short discussion around 11:30am. The museum will remain open
for you to check out the exhibit and enjoy some light refreshments until 1pm.
This program is free and open to the public.
Registration: Not required
Postural Therapy: Living Comfortably
Tuesday, January 7, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Start your day with movement! Get energized in this virtual session with postural therapist, Joey Zimet, and learn exercises to improve posture and function. The class will incorporate unique standing, sitting, and floor exercises that are gentle and easily adapted to fit your needs. These methods are well-studied and based upon neuroscience, biomechanics, the myofascial system, and other variables. Treat yourself to some maintenance and self-care! Registered participants will receive a link to join. Cost: FREE.
RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Tuesday Trek: Old Powerhouse and Peter’s Kill Trails Hike at Minnewaska
Tuesday, January 7, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for
an adventurous outing along the edge of the Peter's Kill stream. Our first
destination is the site of the old hydro-electric powerhouse, that served the
hotels once located at Lake Minnewaska. Some may find this off-trail walk
challenging, as it includes a stream crossing, bushwhacking and a steep, rocky
section. We'll return to join the Red Loop Footpath, following the western
section and returning to the start of the Bullwheel Footpath. We'll then follow
this slow, climbing trail until it intersects the High Peter's Kill Footpath,
which we'll walk to a scenic view over the Clove valley. The total distance for
this outing is approximately two-and-three-quarters miles. If conditions are
icy, participants are strongly encouraged to bring microspikes or other ice
traction devices. Meet at the Peter's Kill Parking Area, 5080
Route 44/55, Gardiner, New York.. Pre-registration is required by calling
the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Volunteer Orientation for Trail Ambassadors
Wednesday, January 8, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155
Looking to volunteer at Grafton Lakes State Park? Want to learn about
what Trail Ambassadors do? Learn all about becoming a Trail Ambassador with our
Educator, Cai! Please call to register at (518) 279-1155.
Registration: Required
Coexisting with Coyotes
Wednesday, January 8, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
As coyote breeding season begins in January, sightings within the Preserve are bound to increase. Join Dana Goin from the Wolf Conservation Center for a virtual presentation about coyotes, their history and ecology, and what we can do to best coexist with them. Dana's goal is to empower our community with the tools, information, and resources we require to live in harmony with this misunderstood predator. Registered participants will receive a link to join. Cost: FREE.
RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Nature Walk at the Gardiner Library
Friday, January 10, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for a
nature walk starting at the Gardiner Library. During this program, we will take
an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander
through Majestic Park, which may be muddy and wet from rain. On this slow-paced
walk, we will be looking at whatever natural curiosities intrigue the group,
from birds to trees. Participants are encouraged to dress warmly in layers,
wear warm boots or shoes and bring binoculars. Poor weather will trigger a
cancellation and this program will be offered instead on January 17th. Meet at the Gardiner Library Lower Parking Area, near the
Wallkill Valley Rail Trail trailhead and the electric charging station. For
more information about the program, call
the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.
Registration: Required
Learn to Cross-Country Ski
Friday, January 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Evangola State Park
Learn the basics of cross-country skiing before
going on a short, guided ski tour at Evangola State Park. Ages 10 and up.
Equipment provided; sizes are limited. Minimum of 6 inches of snow required for
program. Registration
required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
TINY TOTS: Winter Birds
Friday, January 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Explore the natural world around us. These programs will connect children and their parents with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts.
Registration: Not required
Tracking Snowshoe Hike
Friday, January 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Fort Ontario State Historic Site
(315) 400-3890
Join us as we explore the fort in winter! Environmental
educators will be on hand to show everyone how to snowshoe and to search for
animal tracks. We'll likely find traces of the fox family that lives nearby. If
there isn't enough snow to snowshoe this will be a winter hike.
Meet us inside
the fort in the Enlisted Men's Barracks.
Please call
315-400-3890 to reserve a pair of snowshoes by noon Thursday, Jan 9th. Leave a
message if no one answers.
Registration: Required
Wawarsing Turnpike and Jenny Lane Snowshoe at Minnewaska
Saturday, January 11, 2025 09:30 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for a
snowshoe hike on some of the lesser-travelled trails at Minnewaska during this
approximately five-mile outing. Leaving from the Lower Parking Area, we will
follow Wawarsing Turnpike to the west until it intersects Jenny Lane Footpath.
Crossing over Rt 44/55, we'll follow this trail until it intersects Blueberry
Run Footpath. From here, we'll snowshoe a short section of Blueberry Run
Footpath to reach Lower Awosting Carriage Road, which will take us back to our
starting point. While scenic views are limited on this outing, it traverses
beautiful sections of forest and two clear, mountain streams. This outing
includes a few sustained uphill and downhill sections and two stream crossings
that may be challenging for some. A limited number of snowshoes are available
for participants to borrow for this program from the Education Department. When
these run out, snowshoes may be rented for a fee of $5 per person. Please
plan to arrive by 9:10 a.m. if you will be borrowing snowshoes. If there is
insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and
participants are highly encouraged to bring along microspikes or other ice
traction devices. Meet at the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is
required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Hiking Challenge
Saturday, January 11, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Did
you know Green Lakes State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails? Join
us to hike them all! This challenge isn't about hiking really fast or long
distances but hiking all the trails while building community. Each month we
will be leading hikes on different trails.
We want to hike them all by the end of 2025!
Join our hiking challenge!
All hiking abilities welcome but must be fit enough to
hike five miles over hilly terrain.
Hikes the second Saturday of the month.
Make new friends and explore new trails.
more info will be emailed when you register.
Meet at the Environmental Education Center for the Jan
11th hike at 10am or 1pm
Adults and teens welcome
Win a prize when you complete all 12 hikes!
Please pre-register for this hike:
click here. Meet at the Environmental Education Center (west beach).
Registration: Required
Owl Prowl
Saturday, January 11, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Join us for a hike and lesson on owls! We will learn all about these fascinating birds then dissect owl pellets.
Registration: Not required
Learn to Cross-Country Ski
Saturday, January 11, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Knox Farm State Park
Learn the basics of cross-country skiing before
going on a short, guided ski tour at Knox Farm State Park. Ages 10 and up.
Equipment provided; sizes are limited. Minimum of 6 inches of snow required for
program. Registration
required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Fire Starters Inside
Saturday, January 11, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Niagara Falls State Park
Join a Park Naturalist inside at the Education
Center and learn how to prepare a variety of fire starters to help get your
next campfire started easier. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Weir Tour
Saturday, January 11, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave., Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk - parking lots nearby). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration:
https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=269.
Registration: Required
WINTRY WALK
Saturday, January 11, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Lakeside State Park
Join us for a winter walk through Lakeside State Park's
trails. Meet at picnic pavilion in day-use area (43.367153, -78.243281).
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, January 11, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, January 11, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in January, February, and March, weather permitting. It is
designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing as a
new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee, who
will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are
available to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the
Sam's Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Blooming Botanist
Saturday, January 11, 2025 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155
The first Meeting of our Blooming Botanists Club where we will start
from No Knowledge and work our way up. In our first meeting, we will learn how
to use Newcomb's Wildflower Guide and learn about basic identifiers and terms
for wildflowers! We will meet once every two months to compare notes in our
field journals, learn new things about plants, and go on guided hikes to see
what we can find around Grafton Lakes State Park. Call 518-279-1155 to
register.
Registration: Required
Happy New Year! Happy Lunar New Year! Story and Craft Hour for Kids
Saturday, January 11, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Celebrate 2025 with a special story and craft hour at Clermont! Join us in our historic Visitor Center for an afternoon of stories, snacks, and crafts focusing on celebrations surrounding both Western New Year and Lunar New Year. Please note: This is a children's program. All children must be accompanied by adults, all adults must be accompanied by a child. This event is free of charge, but visitors must register in advance.
Registration: Not required
Parks Centennial Photo Exhibit Reception
Saturday, January 11, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Rockefeller State Park Preserve is celebrating the 100th anniversary of NYS Parks! We asked the community to share their favorite photos taken in the Preserve to commemorate the occasion. We selected 30 photographs to highlight in the exhibit on display from January 3rd – 31st at the Warner Library at 121 N Broadway, Tarrytown, NY. Join us on January 11th for a reception and enjoy refreshments as you admire the selected photography. Click the links below to look through the collection, pick your favorites, and purchase prints to support the Preserve! Winners of the People's Choice Award will be announced at the reception. Cost: FREE, no registration required. View photos and purchase prints:
32auctions.com/RSPPphoto2024, cast your vote:
forms.gle/KskLBqeXeFQgPfRRA.
Registration: Not required
Climate Change: Solutions
Saturday, January 11, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155
Start the new year off right with a renewed sense of optimism! Join us
at Peebles Island State Park's classroom to explore promising and ongoing
solutions to combat climate change. Find out what part you can play in
protecting our planet. Our speaker will be Dr. Mathias Vuille from the
University at Albany. His research encompasses climate both past and present.
This program is free and designed for ages high school and up. Pre-register at
(518) 279-1155.
Registration: Required
Paleontology Pals
Sunday, January 12, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Get ready to take a look back in time and discover the awesome fossils that have been found locally and around the world! Together we will talk about how fossils are made, look at real examples, and create our own.
Registration: Not required
Awosting Falls Snowshoe Outing at Minnewaska
Sunday, January 12, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
The best prescription to cure cabin fever is to get outside and
enjoy the wonders of winter. Get a taste of the cure and come join Laura
Conner, Environmental Educator, for an approximately two-and-a-half-mile long
snowshoe walk along the charming Awosting Falls Carriage Road. Leaving from the Peter's
Kill Area, our path will take us on a slight uphill grade past a towering rock
formation and along the edge of the Peter's Kill stream before finally reaching
the iconic 65-foot tall Awosting Falls. A limited number of
snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for this program from the
Education Department. When these run out, snowshoes may be rented for $5 per
person. Please plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if you will be borrowing
snowshoes. If
there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and
participants are encouraged to bring microspikes or other ice traction devices.
Meet at the Peter's Kill Area, 5080 Route 44/55, Gardiner, New York. Pre-registration is
required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, January 12, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Yoga is back! Ring in a healthier new year with our Morning Hatha Yoga class, Sundays at 10:30 AM. The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Fee is $18/class, registration available at
www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Moon Meander
Monday, January 13, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Enjoy a short walk along the Schoharie Creek to catch a
glimpse of the full Wolf Moon rising above the Mohawk Valley. Please dress
appropriately for the weather conditions and wear proper supportive/warm
footwear. Moderate to heavy snowfall, ice, or rain may cancel or postpone this
program.
Registration: Not required
Winter Moon-walk Series
Monday, January 13, 2025 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
(518) 806-9719
Full moon hikes will be offered on these dates. We will meet at the parking area at the north field, as you enter the park. In the event of extremely cold or stormy weather, the event will be postponed. Please contact the Historic Interpreter at 518-806-9719 to register for these hikes, and to confirm the date which it will take place.
Registration: Required
Tuesday Trek: Wawarsing Turnpike and Jenny Lane Hike at Minnewaska
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for a
hike on some of the lesser-travelled trails in Minnewaska on this approximately
five-mile outing. Leaving from the Lower Parking Area, we will follow Wawarsing
Turnpike Footpath, crossing a stream at the former site of an old bridge and
passing the stone foundations of old barns. We'll intersect Jenny Lane Footpath
and cross Rt 44/55, following this route as it climbs uphill through the site
of the 2008 forest fire, until it intersects Blueberry Run Footpath. From here,
we'll walk a short section of this footpath to reach Lower Awosting Carriage
Road, which will take us back to our starting point. While scenic views are
limited on this outing, it traverses through beautiful sections of forest and
across two small, clear mountain streams. This outing includes a few sustained
hilly sections and the two stream crossings, which may be challenging for some.
Participants are strongly encouraged to bring microspikes or other ice traction
devices. Meet
at the Lower Parking Lot. Pre-registration is required by calling the
Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Weir Tour
Wednesday, January 15, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave., Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk - parking lots nearby). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration:
https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=270.
Registration: Required
Sound Healing
Wednesday, January 15, 2025 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Tickets available December 16 at 10 am, Join Dayna Gralla for a therapeutic and restorative sound healing experience. Envelop yourself in the sounds of crystal singing bowls, chimes, and a variety of soothing instruments as you allow your mind to drift from an active state to a relaxed and meditative state. Ages 10+. Cost: $8.
RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sound Healing
Wednesday, January 15, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Tickets available December 16 at 10 am, Join Dayna Gralla for a therapeutic and restorative sound healing experience. Envelop yourself in the sounds of crystal singing bowls, chimes, and a variety of soothing instruments as you allow your mind to drift from an active state to a relaxed and meditative state. Ages 10+. Cost: $8.
RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
FREE Monthly Tours and Programs / Entradas y Programas GRATUITOS
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Olana State Historic Site
The Olana Partnership's Free Community Day at Olana State Historic Site, the Third Thursday of every month. Make a day of it! Join a FREE program happening in the Wagon House Education Center.Día Comunitario Gratuito al Sitio Estatal Histórico Olana cada tercer jueves del mes, organizado por La Asociación Olana. ¿Quiere pasar el día con nosotros? Participa en uno de los programas GRATUITOS que se ofrecen en nuestro Centro Educativo "Wagon House."Visit OLANA.org/ThirdThursday
Registration: Not required
Mars’ Opposition at DeVeaux
Thursday, January 16, 2025 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
DeVeaux Woods State Park
Learn a little more about our neighbor the red
planet from one of our park educators, and then head outside to get a closer
look while Mars is at its brightest in the sky! Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Field Guide Friday: Animal Tracks at Sam’s Point
Friday, January 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
(845) 647-7989
Dust off your old, field identification guides and join Becca
Howe-Parisio, Environmental Educator, on a hike to learn how to use it. On this
three-mile, moderate adventure, we will search for footprints in the mud or
snow and use a field guide to identify different critters living in the Park
Preserve. Taking the time to learn tracks using field guides and rulers
reinforces your knowledge of the unique characteristics of that animal. This
leaves a more durable memory than the quick impression made when using apps on
technology. Do not fret if you don't own an animal tracking field guide, there
will be field guides available to borrow. Field Guide Friday will be a monthly
program, focusing on different topics as the seasons change. This program is
suited for anyone who is old enough to read and is interested in learning how
to use a book to identify plants, insects, and more. Participants
must bring water and snacks and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Sam's Point Visitor Center at 845-647-7989.
Registration: Required
Monthly Fat Bike Rides
Friday, January 17, 2025 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Allegany State Park - Red House Area
Meet other fat bike
enthusiasts at these Friday night fun rides. Friday, January 17,
February 14, March 14 at 6:30 pm, with the ride starting at 6:45 pm. Bring warm
clothes, a helmet, a head light, and sense of adventure. Check in will be at
Camp Allegany in January and February and the Red House Administration Building
on March 14th.
Registration: Not required
Historian & A Movie: Last of the Mohicans
Friday, January 17, 2025 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
(914) 965-4027
"Last of the Mohicans" (1992, R) follows half-White Hawkeye and his adoptive Mohican family as they struggle to rescue the captured daughters of a British colonel during the French & Indian War. Historians Michael McGurty and Chad Johnson of New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site and historian and Pocomoke nation member Drew Shuptar-Rayvis discuss the truth and fiction behind this popular adaptation of James Fenimore Cooper's novel. Tickets are free, but registration is recommended. To reserve your spot, call 914-965-4027 or email philipsemanorhall@parks.ny.gov. Refreshments provided by the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall.
Registration: Required
Snowshoe Loop Hike at the Peter’s Kill Area of Minnewaska
Saturday, January 18, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for a snowshoe
hike in the woods of the Peter's Kill Area of Minnewaska. During this
approximately two-mile recreational program, we will snowshoe the various
footpaths in the Peter's Kill Area to make a loop. Departing from the parking
area, this outing will take participants on the Red Loop, Bullwheel, High
Peter's Kill, and Yellow Connector Footpaths, returning on the Red Loop
Footpath. While the distance of this outing is relatively short, there a few
sustained hills and rocky terrain that some may find challenging. A
limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for this
program from the Education Department. Please plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if
you will be borrowing snowshoes. If there is insufficient snow cover, this
program will be offered as a hike and participants are highly encouraged to
bring along microspikes or other ice traction devices. Pre-registration is
required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, January 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Tracks & Traces
Saturday, January 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Let's learn about tracks and traces! Join us for a stroll around the park as we find signs of wildlife.
Registration: Not required
History of Rockwood Hall
Saturday, January 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join Rockwood docent, David Teich, on an adventure into the past as we explore the remains of Rockwood Hall and its rich history dating back to prehistoric times. Former estate of William A. Rockefeller Jr., this site boasts scenic views overlooking the Hudson, lush forests, and remnants of 19th century luxuries. The hike is about 2 miles roundtrip; leashed dogs are welcome. Cost: $4.
RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, January 18, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, January 18, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in January, February, and March, weather permitting. It is
designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing as a
new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee, who
will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are
available to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the
Sam's Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Winter Festival
Saturday, January 18, 2025 11:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
Grafton Lakes State Park and the Friends of Grafton Lakes State Park
will host the 40th Annual Winter Festival on Saturday, January 18th, 2025. The
Winter Fest will feature outdoor events along with indoor exhibits, food
vendors, and family-friendly recreational activities. The event is free of
charge and will take place from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM. This event is perfect for the whole family. You can join snowshoe and kicksled
adventures, savor the delights of local food trucks, and take a horse-drawn
wagon ride! Other outdoor offerings this year include our popular snow bowling
hill, snowball toss, and free snowmobile rides- courtesy of the Grafton Trail
Blazers. You can also warm up inside and meet the live animals from Uncharted
Wild, and birds of prey from NYS Rehabilitation Council President, Kelly
Martin. All of this, and much more!
We will kick off the event with the Polar Plunge at 11:30 AM, the plunge is
hosted by the Knights of Columbus, and benefits OLV-OLS food pantry. As always,
the Plunge includes a prize for the silliest costume, awarded by the Friends of
Grafton Lakes State Park. So start planning your January beach attire! To
pre-register for the Plunge, please sign up online at:
https://zippy-reg.com/online_reg/?e=2139.
Registration: Required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Saturday, January 18, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Go Fish at Delta Lake State Park- Discover the fish living in Delta Lake- even under ice. Make a fish mobile. Make a Delta Lake food chain. Learn what likes to go fishing in Delta Lake besides us. Make a habitat puzzle. An inside introduction to ice fishing will be offered. Learn about the NY fish hatchery just down the road.
Registration: Not required
Jeanne Robert Foster Performance
Saturday, January 18, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800
RECHEDULED TO 1/18/25, Meet at the Visitor Center. Come journey back in time! Learn about Jeanne Robert Foster and her Adirondack neighbors of yesterday. Eileen Egan Mack portrays the Adirondack born writer in this one-person show through stories, readings and songs. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
A Closer Look Family Tours
Saturday, January 18, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Experience learning, looking closely, and conversation as a family during this series of special museum gallery tours at Olana State Historic Site. Each month, The Olana Partnership educators will lead an exploration of two to three works of art on the second floor galleries through family-friendly dialogue and other hands-on activities. After your tour, extend your day at OLANA and head down to the Wagon House Education Center for a free drop-in program, Art Making in the Afternoon from 1-4pm. Designed for families with children ages 3 and up. $15 adults; children under 12 are free.
Register.
Registration: Required
Artmaking in the Afternoon
Saturday, January 18, 2025 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Join The Olana Partnership educators for hands-on artmaking using professional materials and a series of prompts to get your creativity flowing. Drop in program open to all ages; FREE. All materials provided. Located in the Wagon House Education Center.
Registration: Not required
Jeanne Robert Foster Performance
Saturday, January 18, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800
RECHEDULED TO 1/18/25, Meet at the Visitor Center. Come journey back in time! Learn about Jeanne Robert Foster and her Adirondack neighbors of yesterday. Eileen Egan Mack portrays the Adirondack born writer in this one-person show through stories, readings and songs. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Jeanne Robert Foster Performance
Saturday, January 18, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800
RECHEDULED TO 1/18/25, Meet at the Visitor Center. Come journey back in time! Learn about Jeanne Robert Foster and her Adirondack neighbors of yesterday. Eileen Egan Mack portrays the Adirondack born writer in this one-person show through stories, readings and songs. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Lunar Explorers
Sunday, January 19, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Blast off with us to the moon! We'll explore the big rock in the sky through experiments and hands on activities; discover moon phases, craters, and moonquakes!
Registration: Not required
Peter’s Kill Two Views Hike at Minnewaska
Sunday, January 19, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Laura Conner,
Environmental Educator, for a refreshing, two-mile, round-trip hike in the
winter woods to reach two scenic overlooks in the Peter's Kill Area, both of
which feature stunning views in clear weather. While the distance is relatively
short, there are a few moderate hills, which may be difficult for some. If
conditions are icy, participants are strongly encouraged to bring microspikes
or other ice traction devices. Meet at the Peter's Kill Area. Pre-registration
is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, January 19, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Yoga is back! Ring in a healthier new year with our Morning Hatha Yoga class, Sundays at 10:30 AM. The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Fee is $18/class, registration available at
www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Flag Changing Ceremony
Sunday, January 19, 2025 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
The American Legion Post 739 organize and present monthly Flag Changing Ceremonies on the Walkway to honor our region's veterans and their service to our country. These events, organized and presented by these local veterans' organizations, are open to all who wish to attend.
Registration: Not required
Local Lore and Legends
Sunday, January 19, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Tickets available on December 16 at 10 am, Did you know that the famous horseman ride in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow likely took place here in the Preserve? Actually, there are quite a few lesser-known legends that take place on this land. The names of some of our most iconic locations (Spook Rock, Ravens Rock, Witch's Spring) come from stories that have been told by locals dating back hundreds of years. Join Ranger Su (tonight as "Major Su") for a 2-mile twilight hike to visit some of these locations and hear their stories. Leashed dogs are welcome. Cost: $4.
RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Scenic Hike along Beacon Hill and around Lake Minnewaska
Monday, January 20, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for
an approximately four-mile hike along the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road, Beacon
Hill Footpath and Beacon Hill Carriage Road. We'll begin our walk on the Beacon
Hill Carriage Road, which features a gorgeous, scenic viewpoint at its
terminus. Then, we'll hike the Beacon Hill Footpath, which follows along the
top edge of an east-facing cliff and gets bathed in the warm, morning light.
Then, we'll land on the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road, which we'll follow around
the Lake from east to west, stopping to admire all the scenic views along our
route. This walk will offer beautiful views of the Rondout and Wallkill Valleys
below and the Catskill Mountains to the north. The carriage roads are
relatively easy walking; however, the footpath does include some hills and
tricky footing. If conditions are icy, participants are encouraged to bring
microspikes or other ice traction devices. If ski trails are being groomed,
this outing location will change. Meet at the Lake
Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake
Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Animal Signs on Loop Road at Sam’s Point
Monday, January 20, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
(845) 647-7989
Join Olivia Castañeda, Sam's Point Stewardship Coordinator, for a
three-mile hike on Loop Road to discover what creatures are active in the Park
Preserve in this harsh season. Tree rubbings, snow dens and scat are all signs
of wildlife that we might find. These signs give us clues as to which animals
live here and how hard it is for them to stay alive in winter. Please bring
snacks, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather as well as microspikes
or other ice traction devices. Children must be accompanied by a parent or
guardian over the age of 18. If there is sufficient snow cover, this
program will be offered as a snowshoe outing. Snowshoes are available to rent
for $5 at the Visitor Center. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Sam's Point
at 845-647-7989.
Registration: Required
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Monday, January 20, 2025 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, please join us for a Celebration of Community at Clermont. Learn about the Livingston family, and the enslaved men and women, native communities, servants, and other underrepresented groups who lived and worked at Clermont. Check out our award-winning exhibit, Redefining The Family: The Livingstons and the Institution of Slavery in our Visitor Center and enjoy a free tour of the mansion. Clermont State Historic Site is part of The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation's Our Whole History Initiative, which seeks to bring a more balanced historic narrative to public awareness, enriching our state's history and the stories we share throughout the Parks and Sites. Through ongoing research and new interpretations, Clermont seeks to create a more inclusive environment, more reflective of our multicultural past and welcoming to all. There is no charge for this family-friendly event. You do not need to register online for this event, however, you MUST check in at the Visitor Center prior to your tour. Because of the capacity of the mansion, tour size is limited. Visit our
event page for additional information.
Registration: Not required
Day of Service
Monday, January 20, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service. In honor of the day, join us for a litter cleanup along the lakeshore.
Registration: Not required
Crafts and Coffee
Tuesday, January 21, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Join us one Tuesday a month to sip some coffee and make a craft inspired by nature! This month we will be making winter garlands.
Registration: Not required
Tuesday Trek: Hike the Hidden Meadows Loops at Minnewaska
Tuesday, January 21, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Come join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for an
approximately four-mile walk along carriage roads and old woods roads through a
former golf course and orchard. Abundant scenic views of the Catskills are
visible along this route. We'll begin our journey along the Lake Minnewaska
Carriage Road, which we'll follow to the entrance to the old golf course. This
area of forest was transformed decades ago, and it offers a unique opportunity
to observe nature's patient conversion of the land back towards a forest
through the process of ecological succession. We'll meander downhill, through a
small pitch pine grove and a wetland where signs of wildlife, including tracks
in snow, can be abundant. Next, we'll begin our first loop, heading uphill
through an insular meadow, fringed with a mixed forest, to reach an area with
multiple ponds. These ponds were used to hold water, pumped from Lake
Minnewaska, to water the greens of the golf course. Our final portion of loop
in the Meadows will take us past blueberry patches and downhill through an old
orchard until we emerge on Upper Awosting Carriage Road. From here, we'll
walk back to the Visitor Center. If conditions are icy, participants are
encouraged to bring microspikes or other ice traction devices. If ski trails
are being groomed, this outing location will change. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska
Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska
Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
THE SCIENCE OF SLIME
Tuesday, January 21, 2025 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Hamlin Beach State Park
(585) 964-2462
Slime can serve many purposes in the natural world,
including defense, communication, and movement. Learn more about the occurrence
of this slippery substance in nature and make your own synthetic slime!
Ingredients and instructions will be provided. Please wear clothes that you do
not mind getting messy and pre-register by emailing
Genesee.Naturalist@parks.ny.gov . Meet in Shelter 1 in Area 1.
Registration: Required
Registration: Required
NYSOA Winter Waterfowl Count
Friday, January 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Evangola State Park
Every
year, the NYS Ornithological Association counts the number of waterfowl across
the state, with more than 250,000 birds recorded in most years. Jump on board
this community-driven science project and help tally birds along the shore! Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Winter Walk
Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155
Guided Hike Around GLSP, Meet at the WC, and explore a trail. weather
dependent and Snowshoes supplied if necessary. Call 518-279-1155 to
register.
Registration: Required
WETLAND WANDER
Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Lakeside State Park
Celebrate World Wetland Day early with a
walk through the woods and along the water! Meet at picnic pavilion in the
day-use area (43.367153,-78.243281).
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
Winter Mossy Glen Hike at Minnewaska
Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
Feeling cooped up and need
to get out? Then join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for an invigorating hike in
the wintry woods. On this approximately three-mile snowshoe outing, we'll hike
along Mossy Glen Footpath, Blueberry Run Footpath, and Upper Awosting Carriage
Road. Along the way, we may encounter animal tracks, icicles, or other winter
wonders to look at. Although this route ascends 200 feet, the climb is gradual
over the length of the footpath. This route may present some challenges, such
as slippery rocks, ice, uneven and rocky footing, and exposed tree roots. A
limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for this
program from the Education Department. When these run out, snowshoes may be
rented for $5 per person. Please plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if you will be
borrowing snowshoes. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will
be offered as a hike and participants are strongly encouraged to bring
microspikes or other ice traction devices. Meet in the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center
at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Weir Tour
Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave., Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk - parking lots nearby). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration:
https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=271.
Registration: Required
Tracks! EnviroEd Winter Series
Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Join us as we take a "paws" to look for tracks on the trails
at the site. We'll see if we can identify critter tracks along the old
canal. Free program open to all ages. Please dress appropriately for the
weather conditions and wear proper supportive/warm footwear. Moderate to heavy
snowfall, ice, or rain may cancel or postpone this program.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, January 25, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, January 25, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in January, February, and March, weather permitting. It is
designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing as a
new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee, who
will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are
available to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the
Sam's Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Backyard Birds in Winter: How to Help
Saturday, January 25, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Learn
how to help our winter birds survive. Find out about what different birds eat,
what types of feeders to use, and how to make a pinecone bird feeder. We will
also touch on getting ready for spring and using bird houses. All supplies
included. Registration
required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Snowshoe Hike to Indian Rock at Sam’s Point
Saturday, January 25, 2025 11:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
(845) 647-7989
Join Becca Howe-Parisio, Environmental
Educator, for an interpretive snowshoe hike to Indian Rock. We'll hike
past the scenic vista at the Sam's Point Overlook and then make our way around
Lake Maratanza. At Indian Rock, we'll enjoy beautiful views of the Catskill
Mountains. During this almost five-mile hike, we'll traverse roads and a rocky
footpath through a dwarf pitch pine forest and a cranberry bog featuring a bog
bridge. Most of the terrain is fairly level with some short, steep sections.
Snowshoes are available to rent for $5 at the Visitor Center. Please bring a
lunch, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Children must be
accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. If there is
insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and
participants are encouraged to bring micro spikes or other ice traction
devices. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration
is required by calling Sam's Point at 845-647-7989.
Registration: Required
WINTER WATERCOLOR
Saturday, January 25, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Hamlin Beach State Park
Learn about the creatures and features of the park and how
to paint them! All watercolor materials will be provided. No prior experience
necessary. Meet at Shelter 1 in Area 1.
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
Expert’s Eye: Landscapes of Power with Rosanna Flouty
Saturday, January 25, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Join experts for a series of dialogues on paintings from OLANA's collection that are worth a closer look. During this program, Dr. Rosanna Flouty will lead a discussion centered on two of Church's Catskill paintings illuminating dynamics of territorial power. Using deep looking and a short, hands-on activity, participants will examine how Church's works serve as lenses for interrogating colonial histories and the reclamation of landscape. This conversation will catalyze discussions on the power of land as a contested site of identity, ownership, and cultural memory.
Register.
Registration: Required
Full Moon Ski Tour
Saturday, January 25, 2025 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Knox Farm State Park
Join us for a moonlit cross-country ski tour at Knox
Farm State Park. Adults only. Experienced skiers only please. Minimum of 6
inches of snow required for program. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Environmental Fantasy Lecture
Sunday, January 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Let's explore the topic of environmental fantasy! We will dive into JRR Tolkien‘s Lord of the Rings trilogy and discuss media's impact on our interpretation of nature.
Registration: Not required
Awosting Falls Snowshoe Outing at Minnewaska
Sunday, January 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752
The best prescription to cure cabin fever is to get outside and
enjoy the wonders of winter. Get a taste of the cure and come join Laura
Conner, Environmental Educator, for an approximately two-and-a-half-mile
long, snowshoe walk along the charming Awosting Falls Carriage Road. Leaving from the Peter's
Kill Area, our path will take us on a slight uphill grade past a towering rock
formation and along the edge of the Peter's Kill stream before finally reaching
the iconic 65-foot tall Awosting Falls. A limited number of
snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for this program from the
Education Department. Otherwise, snowshoes may be rented for this program from
the Park Preserve for a fee of $5 per person. Please plan to arrive by 9:30
a.m. if you will be borrowing snowshoes. If there is insufficient snow cover, this
program will be offered as a hike and participants are encouraged to bring
microspikes or other ice traction devices. Meet at the Peter's Kill Area. Pre-registration is
required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, January 26, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Yoga is back! Ring in a healthier new year with our Morning Hatha Yoga class, Sundays at 10:30 AM. The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Fee is $18/class, registration available at
www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Mineral Identification Workshop
Sunday, January 26, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Minerals are the fundamental building blocks of our planet! Learn all about minerals and how to identify them with geologist, Kim Fendrich. Discover some of the ways we use minerals in our daily lives and hone your observational skills in this interactive program as you perform tests on a variety of minerals to figure out what they are. Stay tuned for part 2 (rock identification) in February! Ages 8+. Cost: $4.
RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Learn to Cross-Country Ski
Saturday, February 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Evangola State Park
Learn the basics of cross-country skiing before
going on a short, guided ski tour at Evangola State Park. Ages 10 and up.
Equipment provided; sizes are limited. Minimum of 6 inches of snow required for
program. Registration
required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Frosty Falls Walk
Saturday, February 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Niagara Falls State Park
Goat Island turns into a frosty, frozen world as the
temperature drops... but the Falls keep flowing! Join a Park Naturalist to
explore these breathtaking, but chilly views! Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, February 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Snowshoe & Ice Volcano Walk
Saturday, February 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Evangola State Park
Experience
the winter season to the fullest with a guided snowshoe trek on the forested
trails of Evangola. If conditions permit, we will end the hike by discovering
the frozen marvels of Lake Erie's ice volcanoes! Snowshoes, snow permitting. Registration
required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Self Care Sunday
Sunday, February 2, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Pamper yourself with the all-natural products we will be making at our self care inspired program. In the spirit of maple tapping season, we will be making a maple based self care product!
Registration: Not required
Woodchuck Walkabout
Sunday, February 2, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Knox Farm State Park
Groundhog
or woodchuck? Whether they are casting shadows or not, dive into the delightful
lore of Groundhog Day! Discover why these fuzzy rodents matter while taking a
winter stroll around the park. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
GROUNDHOG DAY CELEBRATION
Sunday, February 2, 2025 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Hamlin Beach State Park
Celebrate Groundhog Day with us! Enjoy groundhog games,
coloring, and face paint in celebration of Punxsutawney Phil's prediction. Meet
at Shelter 1 in Area 1.
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
Groundhogs Day
Sunday, February 2, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Celebrate Groundhogs Day with an educator to learn
all about our local squirrels, including the largest ground squirrel in North
America – the groundhog! Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Museum Monday
Monday, February 3, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Join us inside the Pathway to Empire exhibit for a look at
Fort Hunter and Queen Anne's Chapel. This Museum Monday program will explore
some of the history of the fort, the Anglican Chapel and its congregation.
Doors open at 11am and there will be a short discussion around 11:30am. The
museum will remain open for you to check out the exhibit and enjoy some light
refreshments until 1pm. This program is free and open to the public.
Registration: Not required
TINY TOTS: Baby Animals
Friday, February 7, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Explore the natural world around us. These programs will connect children and their parents with nature through activities, story times, and crafts.
Registration: Not required
Bird is the Word Walk
Saturday, February 8, 2025 06:30 AM - 08:00 AM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
We'll take a walk along the Schoharie Creek to look for
birds and see how many species we can identify on a winter's morning. During this informal walk, we'll watch for birds in and along the creek as well
as agricultural borderlands.
Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions and
wear proper supportive/warm footwear.
Moderate to heavy snowfall, ice, or rain may cancel or
postpone this program.
Registration: Not required
CRITTERS VS CREATURES
Saturday, February 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Lakeside State Park
What are your favorite winter critters and creatures? Learn
about winter animals and plants, then make a bracket to see who wins! Meet at
picnic pavilion in day-use area (43.367153, -78.243281).
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, February 8, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Winter Gulls, Ducks, & Terns
Saturday, February 8, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
A short
introduction to some of the winter gulls, ducks, and terns in the Niagara
Region, identification, life histories, and some fun facts. We will also cover
some of the best viewing spots. Registration required
on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Maple Tap Time!
Saturday, February 8, 2025 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
It's maple tapping season! identify the ideal maple to tap, watch a maple tap demonstration, and learn about the journey of maple syrup from tree to bottle.
Registration: Not required
Jeop-Birdy
Saturday, February 8, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Come join us for a fun and competitive
game of Jeopardy revolving around the birds of the Niagara Region! Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Viewing of Crypt of the Megafauna and a Q&A with Dr. Luis Espinasa at Sam’s Point
Saturday, February 8, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
Join the Sam's Point Staff and Luis Espinasa, PhD to view the July
2024 documentary film, Crypt of the Megafauna, at the Sam's Point
Visitor Center. Dr. Espinasa is a Marist Professor and cave biologist, who is
actively researching the Sam's Point Ice Caves. The Crypt of the Megafauna
explores the research he and his team did in Mexico. Crypt of the Megafauna
won "Best in Show" at the National Speleological Society convention
in the summer of 2024. Crypt of the Megafauna is about the fossils found
in a remote cave in Mexico and what the scientists learned from this cave. Dr.
Espinasa will be available to answer questions about the film and his current
and past research here at Sam's Point, once the film is over. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is not required. In the event of bad
weather, this viewing will be postponed to February 15, 2025.
Registration: Not required
Miles of Ice
Saturday, February 8, 2025 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Come warm up inside and learn about how glaciers
have formed our region and the current state of Earth's remaining glaciers. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Evergreens Everywhere
Sunday, February 9, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Even when leaves fall we can rely on our evergreen plants to add a little bit of color during the winter. We will learn about the species that are found in the park and will use evergreen clippings to create unique art!
Registration: Not required
Beginner Bird Walk
Tuesday, February 11, 2025 04:00 PM - 05:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Join a Park Naturalist to learn the basics
of birding, with a focus on waterfowl and gulls in preparation for the Birds on
the Niagara Festival. Binoculars provided. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Winter Moon-walk Series
Wednesday, February 12, 2025 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
(518) 806-9719
Full moon hikes will be offered on these dates. We will meet at the parking area at the north field, as you enter the park. In the event of extremely cold or stormy weather, the event will be postponed. Please contact the Historic Interpreter at 518-806-9719 to register for these hikes, and to confirm the date which it will take place.
Registration: Required
Gullentines Day – Beach Bird Walk
Friday, February 14, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Woodlawn Beach State Park
Grab
your binoculars and your finest winter coat because it's time for Gullentines
Day at Woodlawn Beach! Get ready to spot our feathered friends along Lake Erie's
shoreline while soaking up some fun bird facts. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Monthly Fat Bike Rides
Friday, February 14, 2025 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Allegany State Park - Red House Area
Meet other fat bike enthusiasts at these Friday night fun rides. Friday, January 17, February 14, March 14 at 6:30 pm, with the ride starting at 6:45 pm. Bring warm clothes, a helmet, a head light, and sense of adventure. Check in will be at Camp Allegany in January and February and the Red House Administration Building on March 14th.
Registration: Not required
Ice Fishing Contest
Saturday, February 15, 2025 05:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155
Grafton Lakes State Park will host its annual Ice Fishing Contest
on Saturday, February 15th, 2025 from 5:30 AM – 2:00 PM. Join in on
the fun as several hundred anglers brave the cold temperatures for their chance
to make a winning catch on several of the park's ponds. Registration begins at
5:30 AM and ends at 11:00 AM (or 12:30pm for youth) on February 15th in the
park's maintenance building, accessible via the Main Entrance. There is a $10
registration fee required for all participants ages 16 or older, with no fee
for children under 16. All participants 16 and older must have a valid NYS
fishing license to fish in the park at any time, including during the contest.
Big cash prizes are awarded for adults with 1st place fish and the
longest-length catch in all three categories of trout, walleye/chain pickerel,
and yellow perch. Winning entries will receive gift cards and other prizes. The
awards ceremony will take place at 2:20pm. Tournament areas are located on
Second Pond, Mill Pond, Dunham Reservoir, Shaver Pond, and Long Pond. There
will not be a backup/soft ice date. Registration: Required
Registration: Required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, February 15, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Learn how you can take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, February 15, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Feb15 Hike
Saturday, February 15, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor offers the
annual Canalway Challenge along the historic waterway of New York. As part of
that, the February 15 is an added challenge to get out and experience 15 miles
of the trails along the corridor during the month. Tackle 1/3 of that
right here as we trek from the Visitor Center to Yankee Hill and back, taking a
slightly different route on the return. This is a free program open to the public.
Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions and wear proper
supportive/warm footwear. This is a loop hike of five miles. Moderate to heavy snowfall, ice, or rain
may cancel or postpone this program.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- The Great Backyard Bird Count
Saturday, February 15, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Identify some of the birds that live at Delta Lake without even seeing them. Make a bird glider. Play a feather matching game- win an iridescent turkey feather. Study migration maps to see where birds, like Delta Lake Canada Geese, go in the winter. Help birds in the winter. Make a Pinecone feeder. Learn about The Great Backyard Count Event!
Registration: Not required
The Sweet Life
Sunday, February 16, 2025 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Join us for a discussion on maple trees and how maple syrup is made. Registrants will participate in a taste test and go on a short walk to visit our tapped trees.
Registration: Not required
Free Play
Monday, February 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Spend some time with your little one in the Center's classroom. An educator will be present, but the time and space is yours- play with our toys, put together our puzzles, or read one of our storybooks. The hour is what you make of it!
Registration: Not required
Crafts and Coffee
Tuesday, February 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Join us one Tuesday a month to sip some coffee and make a craft inspired by nature! This month focuses on watercolors.
Registration: Not required
TINY TOTS: Trees
Friday, February 21, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Explore the natural world around us. These programs will connect children and their parents with nature through activities, story times, and crafts.
Registration: Not required
‘Lug your Mug’ Stroll at the Park
Friday, February 21, 2025 05:00 PM - 06:30 PM
DeVeaux Woods State Park
Grab your
favorite mug or thermos and take a stroll through the cool winter air at
DeVeaux Woods State Park. Bundle up and sip some hot chocolate while taking in
the views of old growth woods. Weather permitting; adventure will be taken on
snowshoes. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, February 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart to learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Lean how you can take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventure.
Registration: Not required
Snowshoe & Ice Volcano Walk
Saturday, February 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Evangola State Park
Experience the winter season to the
fullest with a guided snowshoe trek on the forested trails of Evangola. If
conditions permit, we will end the hike by discovering the frozen marvels of
Lake Erie's ice volcanoes! Snowshoes, snow permitting. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Rocks & Crystals
Saturday, February 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
What makes rocks and crystals so special? Whether it's volcanoes, lightning strikes, ancient fossils, or extraterrestrial visits--discover the geological processes that create these beautiful and lasting gifts from the earth.
Registration: Not required
DIY Bird-Friendly Window Clings
Saturday, February 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Reservoir State Park
Prepare for
spring bird migrations by creating some window clings for your home! Decorate
these clings while we discuss some of the different types of migratory birds in
the Niagara Region. Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Who is Sleeping? EnviroEd Winter Series
Saturday, February 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Join us as we wake our senses up during a short walk along
the old canal and discuss Who is Sleeping? We'll explore what creatures and
critters might be hibernating in our habitats. Free program open to all ages.
Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions and wear proper
supportive/warm footwear. Moderate to heavy snowfall, ice, or rain
may cancel or postpone this program.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, February 22, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Saturday, February 22, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Botany of Delta Lake State Park- What is the NY State tree? Come find the answer at the sugar house. Help make Maple Syrup Tree rings can tell us about our past- Craft a real tree ring hanger.
Registration: Not required
Winter Stroll Along the Gorge
Saturday, February 22, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Whirlpool State Park
Take a leisurely
stroll along the rim trail from Whirlpool State Park to Freedom Plaza and back
to take in the winter scenery and learn some fun facts about the gorge! Registration required on
Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Orienteering Through Time
Sunday, February 23, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Discover the history of Hempstead Lake while using a compass, all in one program! Participants will have the opportunity to take one spin on our historic carousel at the end of the program.
Registration: Not required
Ice Jam: Frozen in History (music event)
Sunday, February 23, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
We look to warm ourselves in the depths of winter with songs
of the frozen and forgotten. A wonderful arrangement of musicians will
play songs of harrowing misadventure, cold misfortunes, and frosty
forewarnings. Some songs tell a tale or let the listener beware, it is
prudent to take caution and care. These songs range in time over the
centuries and will be presented with some narratives to illustrate the icy
thread through history. Join
us for warmth in music and light refreshments. "Snow date" is March 2nd
at 1pm
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, March 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
MARCH WALK
Saturday, March 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Hamlin Beach State Park
March into March on a hike
through Devil's Nose. Meet in the Area 5 parking lot.
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
Dr. Seuss Day
Sunday, March 2, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Dr. Seuss was not only a great writer but a lover of nature. Join us for Seuss story time, make a fun craft, and learn about how Seuss incorporated important environmental concepts into his work.
Registration: Not required
MARCH AT LAKESIDE
Sunday, March 2, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Lakeside State Park
Join us for a march through the trails of
Lakeside State Park. Meet at picnic pavilion in day-use area (43.367153,
-78.243281).
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, March 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Learn how you can take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, March 8, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Winter Moon-walk Series
Thursday, March 13, 2025 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
(518) 806-9719
Full moon hikes will be offered on these dates. We will meet at the parking area at the north field, as you enter the park. In the event of extremely cold or stormy weather, the event will be cancelled. Please contact the Historic Interpreter at 518-806-9719 to register for these hikes, and to confirm the date which it will take place.
Registration: Required
Monthly Fat Bike Rides
Friday, March 14, 2025 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Allegany State Park - Red House Area
Meet other fat bike enthusiasts at these Friday night fun rides. Friday, January 17, February 14, March 14 at 6:30 pm, with the ride starting at 6:45 pm. Bring warm clothes, a helmet, a head light, and sense of adventure. Check in will be at Camp Allegany in January and February and the Red House Administration Building on March 14th.
Registration: Not required
Fantastic Ferns
Saturday, March 15, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Ferns are some of the oldest plants on Earth. Join us as we hike around the park and identify and learn about ferns.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, March 15, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
OWL SATURDAY
Saturday, March 15, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Lakeside State Park
Learn about this overwintering bird and make your own owl
mask! Meet at picnic pavilion in day-use area (43.367153,-78.243281).
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
Art in the Park: Still Life Painting
Sunday, March 16, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Essential to early species identification and the general representation of diversity in the natural world, we have a lot to learn from still life art. We will discuss the significance of still life paintings in the environmental movement before creating our own work of art.
Registration: Not required
Crafts and Coffee
Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Join us one Tuesday a month to sip some coffee and make a craft inspired by nature! This month we will be making mosaics.
Registration: Not required
FOREST OF FROGS
Thursday, March 20, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Lakeside State Park
Discover the
fascinating frogs found in Lakeside's vernal pools! Meet in the day use parking
lot (43.367153, -78.243281).
Registration: Not Required
Registration: Not required
TINY TOTS: Frogs and Toads
Friday, March 21, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Explore the natural world around us. These programs will connect children and their parents with nature through activities, story times, and crafts.
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, March 22, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Gardening 101 Workshop
Saturday, March 22, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Want to grow your own food but don't know where to begin? Join us in a guided workshop in starting a home garden--no backyard necessary!
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Learn how you can take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Trail Talk: Women’s History
Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Celebrate Women's History Month as we go for a hike around the lake and discuss some of the most prominent women in the environmental field!
Registration: Not required
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, March 29, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m.
every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting.
It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing
as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee,
who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes.
They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite
trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available
to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's
Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Delta Lake Rocks with Geology!
Saturday, March 29, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Become a Junior Paleontologist! - Explore the geological history of the Delta Lake Area. Create your own sand art. Go on a Fossil Dig and take-home real fossils. Dinosaurs lived in New York State millions of years ago. Discover the fossil tracks they left behind. Create your own dinosaur tracks. Study the fossils of Ice Age animals who were here in the Delta Lake area 10,000 years ago. Make a Cave Painting telling a story of the Ice Age Animals.
Registration: Not required
Signs of Spring
Sunday, March 30, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Spring is coming! Join us as we discuss the changes plants and animals go through as the temperature gets warmer and the days get longer.
Registration: Not required
Earth Day- PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Learn how you can take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Flying Dragons of Delta Lake State Park
Saturday, April 26, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
See how dragonflies "SEE". Make a stick dragonfly. Role-play a Butterfly's "tongue". Use a scratch-off craft to simulate a butterfly's life size butterfly- Make a clothespin butterfly craft. Fireflies are Nature's Fireworks. Make a pipe cleaner firefly that glows in the dark. Discover what makes the firefly's fireworks "work".
Registration: Not required
World Bird Migration Day- PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, May 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
World Bird Migration Day- Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Saturday, May 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Delta Lake is for the Birds- Identify some of the birds that live at Delta Lake without even seeing them. Make a bird glider. Play a feather matching game- win an iridescent turkey feather. Study migration maps to see where birds, like Ruby Throated Hummingbirds, go in the winter and when to expect them back. Be ready for their return by making a Hummingbird feeder.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, May 24, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Saturday, May 24, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Go Fish at Delta Lake State Park- Discover what fish live in Delta Lake. Make a fish mobile. Make a Delta Lake food Chain. Learn what likes to go fishing in the Delta Lake besides us. Make a habitat puzzle. An inside introduction to fishing will be offered. Learn about The NY fish hatchery just down the road.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Delta Lake Frogs and Snakes and Turtles- Oh My!
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Do you know what the NY State reptile is? Learn to identify frogs by their nightly calls. Start an artificial frog collection. Help frogs get to their Delta Lake home safely in a " Leap Frog" game. What makes Reptiles cool at Delta Lake. Learn about our cold-blooded neighbors and how you can stay "cool headed" if you meet one. Paint different skin patterns on realistic wooden snakes. Play Turtle Hide and seek with Delta Lake paper turtles you craft so the turtle's head goes in and out of its shell just like a real turtle.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, May 31, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Become a Junior Archeologist!
Saturday, May 31, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
An Introduction to the History of Delta Lake State Park- Discover the history of the people who lived in the area of Delta Lake State Park long ago. Explore artifacts of the Native Americans who hunted and fished here in the summers. Go on an archeology dig to find arrowheads left behind. Study pictures and postcards of the people of Delta Village who were here before Delta Dam. Make a picture postcard to mail to friends about your visit to Delta Lake State Park.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Delta Lake Rocks with Geology!
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Become a Junior Paleontologist!- Explore the geological history of the Delta Lake Area. Create your own sand art. Go on a Fossil Dig and take-home real fossils. Dinosaurs lived in New York State millions of years ago. Discover the fossil tracks that they left behind. Create your own dinosaur tracks. study the fossils of the Ice Age animals who were here in the Delta Lake area 10,000 years ago. Make a Cave Painting telling a story of Ice Age Animals.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, June 7, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Become a Junior Archeologist!
Saturday, June 7, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
An Introduction to the History of Delta Lake State Park- Discover the history of the people who lived in the area of Delta Lake State Park long ago. Explore artifacts of the Native Americans who hunted and fished here in the summers. Go on an archeology dig to find arrowheads left behind. Study pictures and postcards of the people of Delta Village who were here before Delta Dam. Make a picture postcard to mail to friends about your visit to Delta Lake State Park.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, June 14, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Delta Lake is for the Birds
Saturday, June 14, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
What is the NY State Bird? Meet the Bluebird! Identify some of the birds that live at Delta Lake without even seeing them. Make a bird glider. Play a feather matching game- win an iridescent turkey feather. Make a Bird Identification Wheel to more easily ID the birds you see at Delta Lake State Park.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell you Delta lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Flying Dragons of Delta Lake State Park
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
See how dragonflies "SEE". Make a stick dragonfly. Role-play a Butterfly's "tongue". Use a scratch-off craft to simulate a butterfly's life size butterfly- Make a clothespin butterfly craft. Fireflies are Nature's Fireworks. Make a pipe cleaner firefly that glows in the dark. Discover what makes the firefly's fireworks "work".
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, June 21, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Delta Lake Frogs and Snakes and Turtles- Oh My!
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Do you know what the NY State reptile is? Learn to identify frogs by their nightly calls. Start an artificial frog collection. Help frogs get to their Delta Lake home safely in a "Leap Frog" game. What makes Reptiles cool at Delta Lake? Learn about our cold-blooded neighbors and how you can stay "cool headed" if you meet one. Paint different skin patterns on realistic wooden snakes. Play Turtle Hide and Seek with Delta Lake paper turtles you craft so the turtle's head goes in and out of its shell just like a real turtle.
Registration: Not required
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, June 28, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Saturday, June 28, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Botany of Delta Lake State Park- What's in a Rose?- The NY State Flower- Learn the parts of a flower. Decorate a small flower pot. Plant seeds in your pot to start a butterfly garden.
Registration: Not required