Thousand Islands Land Trust

Ichthyologist for a Day KidsTrek
2026-08-05 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Governors Island
Join TILT, Dr. John Farrell and the TIBS crew for the 12th annual “Fish Scientists for a Day” and learn what it takes to be a fish scientist! Enjoy a boat ride and afternoon on Governors Island while meeting some new aquatic friends that live in the St Lawrence. There’s something for everyone: see baby muskies in the lab, learn to use a microscope, and even cast your line off the docks!
This KidsTrek is now full. To be added to the waitlist please call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Grindstone Island Mule Trek
2026-07-23 09:00 - 15:30 (America/New_York) | Grindstone Island
Join us for TILT’s legendary tour aboard motorized “mules”. Explore the 4th largest island in the Thousand Islands and dive into its rich cultural and natural history – to include the very place TILT was founded!
*This trek is reserved for TILT supporters and has limited space. To give as many members as possible a chance to participate, registration is limited per household. If you’d like to become a member and join us on the trek, call the office at 315-686-5345 or visit the Ways to Give page on the TILT website to contribute.
This Trek is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please contact Community Engagement Coordinator, Delaney, by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Annual Summer Gathering, Oak Lodge, Wellesley Island
2026-07-18 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Join us as we celebrate conservation in the Thousand Islands! Spend an evening at Oak Lodge on Wellesley Island, celebrating the incredible work we’ve done together while overlooking a spectacular view of the River, and enjoying cocktails and gourmet hors d’oeuvres. This special night will feature updates on TILT’s latest conservation initiatives and our exciting goals for the future—ensuring the continued stewardship of the Thousand Islands, the A2A Wildway, and the greater Atlantic Flyway. It’s a perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and be part of something truly meaningful.
Address: 45496 Landon Road Wellesley Island NY, 13640.
Online registration is closed. If you’d like to join us in celebration of conservation, please feel free to pay at-the-door.

TILT and ACLC’s Annual Citizen Science Loon Census
2026-07-18 08:00 - 09:00 (America/New_York) | Location of Choice
Calling all nature enthusiasts and loon lovers! Here’s your chance to make a real impact on local wildlife conservation — volunteer with TILT and the ACLC to help count the local common loon population as part of the NY Annual Loon Census! This exciting, hands-on citizen science opportunity lets you contribute to vital research on loon populations across northern New York. By participating, you’ll help track population trends and support management efforts that ensure the survival of these iconic birds. Every count matters as we work together to protect these fascinating creatures and their habitats!
Please register to volunteer in advance with the TILT office so that we may send you the necessary forms for reporting.
Online registration is now closed. To volunteer please call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Mushrooms & Mosses Trek
2026-07-07 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Crooked Creek Preserve
The Thousand Islands is home to numerous species of mushrooms, mosses, and lichens. Lead by Jean Fahey, President of the Central New York Mycological Society, this walk will take place on TILT’s beautiful Macsherry Trail, located on the Crooked Creek Preserve in Hammond. Embark on the perfect outing while learning about the numerous native mushrooms, mosses, and lichens along the trail. Discover how these species adapt to the cold northern climate and why they’re essential to the health of the land.
Adults only please.
Please note: harvesting mushrooms is prohibited on all TILT Preserves.
Please register by clicking the link, or call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Tales of the Toadstools KidsTrek
2026-06-30 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Crooked Creek Preserve
Join TILT for a magical story-based hike through the Crooked Creek Preserve! On this KidsTrek, we’ll follow an enchanting trail filled with tales of forest creatures and curious toadstools while exploring the wonders of the outdoors. Along the way, we’ll discover mosses, fungi, and local wildlife, learning about the important roles they play in our ecosystem. Perfect for young explorers with a love of stories and nature!
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
This Trek is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please call Community Engagement Coordinator, Delaney, at 315-686-5345.

Exploring Cherry Island: History, Conservation, and Community Action
2026-06-28 14:00 - 15:30 (America/New_York)
Join us in partnership with the Ontario Bays Initiative (OBI), will host a presentation at the Lyme Heritage Center, located at 1848 Depot Street in Chaumont, NY 13622. The program will explore the history of the recently conserved Cherry Island, highlight other local conservation efforts, and share ways community members can get involved.
Register by clicking the link or calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

TILT Discovery Center Grand Opening
2026-06-18 15:30 - 18:00 (America/New_York)
Join us for the Grand Opening of the Discovery Center! Explore hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to connect people of all ages with the land, water, and cultural heritage of the Thousand Islands region. Refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres will be provided.
Register by clicking the link or calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Annual Zenda Community Picnic & Volunteer Recognition
2026-06-12 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Zenda Farms Preserve
Bring your family and friends to celebrate conservation at the Thousand Islands Land Trust’s (TILT) annual Community Picnic! This kickoff to summer honors open space, volunteerism and community spirit. Enjoy fascinating and fun exhibits from TILT’s conservation and community partners, showcasing environmental, cultural and community organizations from across the Thousand Islands region. Take a stroll down memory lane with our timeless antique tractor display, relive the joys of childhood with games, activities, a petting zoo, and pony rides, and let live music set the perfect summertime vibe. Classic picnic fare will include hotdogs, hamburgers, salads, and desserts and ice-cold drinks will be served to wash it all down. Enjoy all this event has to offer and join us in recognizing and thanking our incredible volunteers who make TILT’s work possible.
Volunteers attend free of charge as a thank you for their dedication and hard work!

Online ticket sales are now closed, but we’d still love to see you there! Tickets will be available for purchase at the door on the day of the event.

Edward & Marlene Schmeer Preserve Premiere Trek
2026-06-05 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Edward & Marlene Schmeer Preserve, Cape Vincent
Join TILT staff for a guided hike through the brand-new Edward and Marlene Schmeer Preserve in Cape Vincent. This introductory trek offers a first look at the landscape, wildlife, and future possibilities of the Preserve while sharing the story behind its conservation. It’s a great chance to get to know the trails, ask questions, and experience the property.
Address: 787 Schmeer Road, Cape Vincent
Please register by clicking the link or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

TILT’s and OBI’s Cherry Island Shoreline Cleanup
2026-06-01 10:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
Join the Thousand Islands Land Trust and Ontario Bays Initiative for a Cherry Island shoreline cleanup in Chaumont Bay! Help clean up debris, trash, and other items to prevent pollution and protect the watershed for future generations. Be sure to wear your trusty work attire and remember to bring gloves if you have them. Together we can make a local impact with global significance! Please register ahead so we can arrange boat transportation.
Address for the ramp/parking lot: 23296 County Road 59, Dexter NY 13634
A rain date is scheduled for Wednesday, June 3rd.
There is currently a waitlist for this trek. To be added to the waitlist, please email Delaney and dmcilrath@tilandtrust.org, or call the TILT Office at 315-686-5345.

Birds of a Feather Trek
2026-05-23 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Otter Creek Preserve
Join us for a unique outdoor adventure at Otter Creek Preserve! Guided by local birding expert Dan Miller, you’ll learn to spot and identify the area’s feathered residents, from songbirds to waterfowl. This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts and families who want to explore the Preserve in a fun and educational way.
Please click the link to register or call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Chippewa Bay Yellow Iris Pull at Chippewa Bay Preserve
2026-05-19 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Chippewa Bay Preserve, 149 New Road, Hammond, NY, 13646, United States
Join us for a hands-on conservation effort at Chippewa Bay Preserve! On May 19 from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM, TILT is hosting a Yellow Iris Pull to help protect the preserve’s wetlands from invasive species.
Yellow Iris may look pretty, but it spreads aggressively and can crowd out native plants that wildlife depend on. Volunteers will work together to carefully remove this invasive plant from wetland areas, helping restore the natural balance of the ecosystem.
Come ready to get a little muddy, learn about invasive species management, and make a direct impact on the health of Chippewa Bay Preserve. Please wear muck boots or rain boots.
Please register by clicking the link, or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345, or emailing dmcilrath@tilandtrust.org.

14th Annual "For The Trees" Arbor Day Celebration
2026-04-24 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York)
The best way to celebrate Arbor Day is by taking action for our trees and environment — while having fun doing it! Whether it’s planting new trees, caring for existing ones, educating others about their importance, or supporting conservation efforts, every step makes a difference. Join the Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) at for our 14th annual “For the Trees” Community Event in celebration of Arbor Day. In twelve years, volunteers have helped to plant more than 850 trees at our Preserves and throughout the River communities.
We’re excited to plant even more trees, creating greener spaces, enhancing habitats, and contributing to a healthier environment for generations to come.
Location: Casino Island. Alexandria Bay NY, right off Fuller Street.
Please register by clicking this link, or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Thank you to Community Bank N.A., for generously sponsoring this trek!

Common Tern Grid Nesting Installation
2026-04-15 08:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Eagle Wing Shoals & Tidd Island
TILT and conservation partner Save The River, along with community volunteers will be installing nesting boxes and gull exclusion grids on Eagle Wings Shoals and Tidd Island to protect the Common Tern, a NY state threatened species. Please meet at the TILT office at 8:30 am. Work gloves are recommended, and lunch will be provided.
Rain date: Thursday, April 16th.
This trek is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Owls & Outdoors KidsTrek
2026-04-03 14:30 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Zenda Farms Preserve
Join naturalist Vici Diehl for a hands-on KidsTrek exploring the secret world of owls! Kids will learn fascinating facts about these nocturnal hunters, and connect with nature on a short hike on the Zenda Woods Trail. This interactive adventure is perfect for curious minds ready to investigate, explore, and learn about the wildlife around them. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
To be added to the waitlist, please email dmcilrath@tilandtrust.org. Thank you!

Winter Gathering
2026-03-07 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Denver)
Saturday, March 7th 5-8pm: Winter Gathering in Florida (Tickets $150 per person)
Join us on Saturday, March 7th for a memorable evening in Florida! Indulge in hors d’oeuvres, refreshing libations, and conversations with River friends and family at the home of Marlene and Cyril Mouaikel in Bonita Springs, FL. Tickets are $150 per person and support land conservation and environmental education efforts along the River, A2A Corridor and greater Atlantic Flyway.
Please click here to purchase your tickets!

Sunset Snowshoe & Bonfire Social
2026-01-29 16:30 - 18:30 (America/Denver) | Otter Creek Preserve
Thursday, January 29th, 4:30pm-6:30pm: Sunset Snowshoe & Bonfire Social – Otter Creek Preserve, Alexandria Bay
Join us for a magical winter evening at Otter Creek Preserve! Explore the trails on a guided snowshoe hike as the sun sets. Afterward, warm up by a bonfire with hot drinks, share stories with fellow nature lovers, and soak in the peaceful winter scenery. Perfect for friends, families, or anyone looking to connect with nature.
This trek is now full, further registration will not be permitted at this time.

Conservation Christmas Gift Wrapping
2025-12-20 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Denver) | TILT Office
Saturday, December 20th, 1pm-3pm: Conservation Christmas Gift Wrapping – TILT Office, Clayton
The Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) is hosting its first ever gift-wrapping event! The weekend before Christmas, drop off your gifts at the office to have them wrapped by our elves with environmentally-friendly materials. This special event combines the joy of the season with the mission of protecting our natural landscapes. While you’re here, learn more about the vital work we do to preserve land for future generations. You will have the opportunity to donate, become a member, or to simply find out more about our conservation programs.
Register Here

Halloween Hike
2025-10-25 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Denver) | Zenda Farms Preserve
Saturday, October 25th, 11am-1pm: Halloween Hike – Zenda Farms Preserve, Clayton
Halloween and nature share a rich and interconnected history that continues to inspire traditions, celebrations, and cultural practices to this day. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you explore the spookified Zenda Trail Spur with friends and family. Following the hike, discover partner exhibits displaying native and exotic reptiles, play Halloween-themed games, get your face-painted and more! Whether you’re strolling through in costume or slithering alongside our reptilian friends, this adventure promises thrills for all ages. All participants are encouraged to wear your Halloween costumes. And just like tradition, expect some tricks and some treats on this special hike!
Online registration is now closed, but don’t worry—you can still join us! Walk-ins are welcome on the day of the event.

Grape Jelly Making Class
2025-09-16 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Denver) | Zenda Farms Preserve
Tuesday 16th & Wednesday 17th of September, 10am-1pm: Grape Jelly Making Class – Zenda Farms Preserve, Clayton
The Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) and the Thousand Islands Arts Center (TIAC) invite you to a two-day jelly-making workshop at Zenda Farms Preserve. Join expert jelly-maker Fred Schmitt for a hands-on experience using Zenda’s famous grapes to learn the art of jelly making. Discover how food, nature, conservation, and art come together in the sweetest way.
The class is $100 per person and includes light snacks and refreshments, along with plenty of mason jars filled with your own homemade jelly to take home!
Register by clicking here to be redirected to the Arts Center’s website to process payment.

Islander Event
2025-08-21 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Denver) | Linden Cove, Alexandria Bay
Thursday, August 21st, 5:30pm-7:30pm: The Thousand Islands Land Trust’s (TILT) Islander Event – Gretchen Scott and Lloyd Buchanan’s home Linden Cove, Alexandria Bay

Farmyard Fun Day KidsTrek
2025-08-15 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Denver) | Zenda Farms Preserve
Friday, August 15th, 1pm-3pm: Farmyard Fun Day KidsTrek – Zenda Farms Preserve, Clayton
Join TILT for a special KidsTrek celebrating the vital connection between farming, land stewardship, and conservation. Whether you aspire to be a local farmer, a supporter of sustainable agriculture, or are passionate about protecting open spaces, this event offers a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and engage with our community’s agricultural heritage. There is something for everyone at TILT’s Farmyard Fun Day, including animal interactions, Zenda Farms tours, sheep herding, composting lessons, and creating your own miniature garden.
Registration for this trek is now closed. To be added to the waitlist, please call 315-686-5345.

Common Tern Nesting Grid Removal
2025-08-12 08:30 - 11:00 (America/Denver) | Eagle Wing Shoals & Tidd Island
Tuesday, August 12th, 8:30am-11am: Common Tern Nesting Grid Removal – Eagle Wing Shoals & Tidd Island
The Thousand Islands Land Trust and conservation partner Save The River need volunteers to help dismantle the gull exclusion grid on Eagle Wing Shoals and Tidd Island. Help make a difference for wildlife and have some fun out on the River too. Please meet at the TILT office at 8:30 am. Work gloves are recommended and lunch will be provided. This event is weather dependent – we will call registered participants to confirm the date.
This trek is now full! Please call 315-686-5345 if you would like to be added to the waitlist.

“Ichthyologist (Fish Scientist) for a Day” KidsTrek with TIBS
2025-08-06 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Thousand Islands Biological Station (TIBS)
Wednesday, August 6th, 10am-12pm: “Ichthyologist (Fish Scientist) for a Day” KidsTrek with TIBS – Thousand Islands Biological Station (TIBS), Governor’s Island
Join TILT, Dr. John Farrell and the TIBS crew for the 11th annual “Fish Scientists for a Day” and learn what it takes to be a fish scientist! Enjoy a boat ride and afternoon on Governors Island while meeting some new aquatic friends that live in the St Lawrence. There’s something for everyone: see baby muskies in the lab, learn to use a microscope, and even cast your line off the docks! Space is limited for this KidsTrek and advanced registrations are required.
This trek is now full! To be added to the waitlist, please email treks@tilandtrust.org.

Grindstone Island Mule Tour
2025-07-31 08:30 - 15:30 (America/Denver) | Grindstone Island
Thursday, July 31st, 8:30am-3:30pm – Grindstone Island Mule Tour – Grindstone Island (Meet at the TILT Office in Clayton for boat transportation)
Join us for TILT’s legendary tour aboard motorized “mules”. Explore the 4th largest island in the Thousand Islands and dive into its rich cultural and natural history – to include the very place TILT was founded 40 years ago! *This trek is reserved for TILT supporters and has limited space. If you’d like to become a member and join us on the trek, call the office at 315-686-5345 or become a member today before your register by clicking here.
This trek is now full. If you would like to be added to the waitlist, please call 315-686-5345.

Healthy Land = Healthy River Series: Let it Flow! KidsTrek
2025-07-24 10:00 - 12:30 (America/Denver) | Wellesley Island
Thursday, July 24th, 10am-12:30pm: Healthy Land = Healthy River Series: Let it Flow! KidsTrek – Thousand Island Park, Friends of Rock Ridges Nature Trail & Treehouse, Wellesley Island
Join us for an exciting day at Thousand Island Park in partnership with Friends of Rock Ridges, where kids will embark on an outdoor adventure, exploring nature and learning about conservation in the Thousand Islands. Our KidsTreks help young explorers discover hidden gems, engage in hands-on activities, and understand our shared responsibility to protect the River and land. After hiking the Rock Ridges Nature Trail, participants will explore the vital connection between land and water that sustains life, while connecting with conservation partners to learn how we can keep our water and nearby ecosystems healthy. KidsTrek participants must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear clothing and footwear appropriate for outdoor play. Space is limited, so sign up early!
Register Here

Annual Summer Gathering in Celebration of 40 Years of Conservation
2025-07-19 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Denver) | Wellesley Island
Saturday, July 19th 6-9pm: Annual Summer Gathering in Celebration of 40 Years of Conservation– The home of Eileen and Michael George, TI Park, Wellesley Island
Join us as we mark 40 years of conservation in the Thousand Islands! Spend an evening celebrating the incredible work we’ve done together while overlooking a spectacular view of the River, and enjoying cocktails and gourmet hors d’oeuvres. This special night will feature updates on TILT’s latest conservation initiatives and our exciting goals for the future—ensuring the continued stewardship of the Thousand Islands, the A2A Wildway, and the greater Atlantic Flyway. It’s a perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and be part of something truly meaningful. Entertainment by: Nik and the Nice Guys!
Proceeds directly benefit the essential conservation and stewardship efforts, helping to conserve the places we love. Tickets: $125 per person At-the-door sales welcome. Let’s raise a glass to the next 40 years and beyond of conservation – together!

Annual Loon Census with Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation (ACLC)
2025-07-19 08:00 - 09:00 (America/Denver)
Saturday, July 19th, 8-9am: Annual Loon Census with Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation (ACLC) – Various Locations (chosen by participants)
Calling all nature enthusiasts and loon lovers! Here’s your chance to make a real impact on local wildlife conservation — volunteer with TILT and the ACLC to help count the local common loon population as part of the NY Annual Loon Census! This exciting, hands-on opportunity lets you contribute to vital research on loon populations across northern New York. By participating, you’ll help track population trends and support management efforts that ensure the survival of these iconic birds. Every count matters as we work together to protect these fascinating creatures and their habitats! Please register to volunteer in advance with the TILT office so that we may send you the necessary forms for reporting.
Register Here

Annual Birkhead Lecture with the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation (ACLC)
2025-07-10 11:00 - 12:30 (America/Denver) | Zenda Farms Preserve
Thursday, July 10th, 11am-12:30pm: Annual Birkhead Lecture with the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation (ACLC) – Zenda Farms Preserve, Clayton
Join TILT in welcoming Denise Silfee from the ACLC for an informative lecture on loon conservation in the Thousand Islands region. The annual Birkhead Lecture is made possible by the generosity of Guthrie and Louise Birkhead and is free to the public. After the lecture, there is an opportunity for questions and light refreshments.
Register Here
