Preserves & Trails

Crooked Creek Preserve

The largest Class 1 wetlands complex in the Thousand Islands. A perfect place to paddle and see wildlife.

Location

Directions: Take State Route 12 to the border between Jefferson and St. Lawrence County (6.1 miles east of Alexandria Bay). Turn North toward Kring Point State Park, then turn immediately right onto Indian Point Road (a dirt road). This road is marked private, but visitors to Macsherry Trail are welcome. Travel approximately ¾ mile to the parking area on the right.

Chris Murray Photography

crooked-creek-header

Photo Credit Robin Hoffman

Photo Credit Steven Daniel

Chris Murray Photography

Chris Murray Photography

Explore Crooked Creek Preserve!

Covering 2,100 acres of Class I wetlands, forests, and uplands, Crooked Creek Preserve is the largest Class I wetlands complex in the Thousand Islands. Located in Hammond and Alexandria, this peaceful preserve is home to diverse wildlife, including the majestic bald eagle, often spotted soaring overhead. Paddle through winding waters by canoe, kayak, or boat. Whether you choose a guided TILTrek or prefer to explore on your own, there’s something special for everyone here.

Macsherry Trail

A highlight of the preserve is the Macsherry Trail, a 3-mile hike starting at Indian Point in Hammond. The trail winds through beaver ponds, forests, and offers stunning views of Chippewa Bay at the “Old Boy Scout Camp” before looping back to the trailhead. It’s a beautiful way to experience the preserve’s diverse habitats up close.

The Frontenac Arch

The Thousand Islands region lies on ancient rock that is part of the Canadian Shield, some of the oldest rock on Earth. Uplift has brought some of this rock to the surface in a ridge known as the Frontenac Arch. This Arch extends from the Grenville Province region of Canada to the Adirondack Mountains in New York. Significant erosion of the overlying rocks has occurred and you can see outcrops at the surface throughout the region. The geological events that formed the Frontenac Arch created a unique migratory corridor across the Eastern Great Lakes system, allowing for animals to safely pass along a binational critical wildlife highway. Click for more information here.

Preserve History

Tucked away in the heart of history, this beautiful Preserve was once part of the Day Farm. The Land Trust acquired it in 1998, with help from a grant from the Sweetwater Trust. 

In 2000, the children of Richard and Mary Macsherry made an incredible contribution by funding the creation of the Macsherry Trail in honor of their parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. This gift has left a lasting legacy and provided a beautiful way for visitors to experience the preserve’s rich history and natural beauty.

Preserve Spotlight

ATVs and snowmobiles are not permitted on the Preserve.

Hunting

In the fall, the preserve opens for hunting. For permit details, please contact Ken Nims, our Stewardship Director.

Trail Map

The Crooked Creek Preserve consists of nearly 2,200 acres situated along the largest Class 1 wetland in the Thousand Islands region.


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