Thousand Islands Land Trust

Zenda Community Picnic & Volunteer Recognition
2025-06-13 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Denver) | Zenda Farms Preserve
Friday, June 13th, 5:30-7:30pm: Zenda Community Picnic & Volunteer Recognition at Zenda Farms Preserve $20 general admission (Kids under 12 are $5, TILT Volunteers are free)
Bring your family and friends to celebrate 40 years of conservation at the Thousand Islands Land Trust’s (TILT) annual Community Picnic! This kickoff to summer honors open space, volunteerism and community spirit. This year’s event promises even more excitement as we commemorate TILT’s 40th anniversary! 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. New this year we are taking a splash with a dunk tank to help raise funds for conservation! Who will take the plunge? You’ll have to join us to find out! 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. Join us for this special milestone, TILT would appreciate advance reservations.
Online registration is now closed. Please purchase tickets at the door the day of the event!

Walking Meditation
2025-06-19 09:00 - 10:30 (America/Denver) | Otter Creek Preserve
Thursday, June 19th, 9-10:30am: Walking Meditation – Otter Creek Preserve, Alexandria Bay
Join TILT at the Otter Creek Preserve for a morning of relaxation. Start with a walking meditation session to bring yourself mindfully into the present moment with instructor BJ Mosher. Let each step draw you closer to balance and inspiration. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned nature lover, this experience will leave you refreshed and invigorated. This unique combination of movement and mindfulness is the perfect way to find your balance and feel in tune with the world around you.
Register Here

Nature Walk & Yoga Class Pop-Up Trek
2025-06-20 10:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | S. Gerald Ingerson Preserve, 15460 County Route 3, Clayton, NY, 13624, United States
Begin your day with a nature walk and yoga class at the beautiful S. Gerald Ingerson Preserve in Clayton on the Rivergate Trail with River Yoga’s Jane Maclaughlin. We will take in the stunning views of the woodlands and grasslands along McCarn Creek followed by an all-levels yoga experience.
Register today!

Mushrooms and Mosses Pop-Up Trek
2025-07-08 10:30 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Crooked Creek Preserve
Tuesday, July 8th, 10:30am-12:00pm: Mushrooms and Mosses Trek with Jean Fahey-Macsherry Trail at Crooked Creek Preserve, Hammond
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 family-friendly 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.
Participants are welcome to bring their own magnifying glass or hand-held loupe to get a closer look. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or a curious beginner, this trek promises an unforgettable trek of discovery and appreciation for the small but mighty inhabitants of the forest floor.
*Collecting mushrooms on all TILT Preserves is prohibited*
Registration for this trek is now closed.

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

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 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!

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

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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
