Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

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Sat 23 Nov
Climate Change: Truths & Myths
Saturday, November 23, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Come learn about climate change and delve into the truths, myths & misconceptions surrounding it! This session is led by Dr. Mathias Vuille from UAlbany's Department of Atmospheric & Environmental Sciences. His research encompasses climate both past and present. Learn about details that are commonly brushed over in mainstream media and get your earnest questions answered without judgment. This program is free and designed for high school and older. Call (518) 279-1155.
Registration: Required
Fri 06 Dec
Luminary Walk
Friday, December 6, 2024 05:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
This December, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at our fourth annual Luminary Walk. Stroll along a mile-long trail, where hundreds of luminary lights dance amidst the trees, casting a warm glow over the serene landscape. This event is perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers alike. Enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors while sipping on festive drinks from Hill Creek Tavern, available for purchase. The event will be held on Friday, Dec 6th from 5-8:30pm. $5 per person, cash only. No registration is required.
Registration: Not required
Wed 01 Jan
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
Wed 01 Jan
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
Wed 08 Jan
Ice Fishing Contest
Wednesday, January 8, 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, January 8th, 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 January 8th 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.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 Jan
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. 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!
Registration: Not required