Preserves & Trails

Otter Creek Preserve

A beautiful mosaic of Thousand Islands habitats within walking distance of the Village of Alexandria Bay.

Location

Directions: The entrance is located on State Route 26, just 0.4 miles south of the intersection with State Route 12 in Alexandria Bay.

Chris Murray Photography

Photo Credit Steve Sturtz

Photo Credit Terra Bach

Photo Credit Sarah Ellen Smith

Photo Credit Terra Bach

Explore Otter Creek Preserve!

Otter Creek Preserve is a beautiful 115-acre natural retreat within walking distance of Alexandria Bay.

With 1.9 miles of trails, including an ADA-accessible section, visitors can enjoy hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing through the woods. Along the way, explore features like a wildlife observation tower, a suspension bridge, and stunning views of Otter and Lynch Creeks.

The preserve includes two areas managed as habitat for the Golden-winged Warbler, a species that migrates from coffee plantations in Central and South America to North American shrublands and young forests. As these habitats decline, so does the warbler’s population in New York, making conservation efforts crucial.

Support the Stewardship of Otter Creek!

The Butts Family Conservation Fund helps sustain the perpetual care and conservation of the Otter Creek Preserve & Nature Trail. Your gift supports the preservation of critical wildlife habitats, clean air and water, and the opportunity for current and future generations to connect with nature. Join us in protecting this vital landscape!

Preserve History

Established in 2015, Otter Creek Preserve was assembled over many years, beginning with the Butt’s Family’s donation in 1999 and subsequent land acquisitions through 2015. Grants in 2012 and 2015 supported trail development, transforming it into a vital wildlife habitat and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Preserve Spotlight

ATVs and snowmobiles are not permitted on the Preserve.

Trail Guide

The Otter Creek Preserve and Nature Trail offers walking, hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on 115 acres of diverse forest and wetlands. A portion of the trail is ADA accessible.


  • Crooked Creek Preserve

    Crooked Creek Preserve

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

  • Fort Haldimand Preserve

    Fort Haldimand Preserve

    The remains of a British fort, built and occupied during the American Revolution, sit on the head of Carleton Island in Cape Vincent.

  • Foster-Blake Woods Preserve

    Foster-Blake Woods Preserve

    A hiking and cross country skiing trail along the dramatic shoreline area known as the Palisades.