This summer, the Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) celebrated its 40th Anniversary with a season of KidsTreks that mixed hands-on fun with outdoor discovery, reminding us that the best classrooms are found in the fields, forests, and waters of the Thousand Islands.
Zenda Farms Preserve kicked off the season with Art from Nature, where families joined TILT and community partner, the Thousand Islands Arts Center (TIAC) to explore clay—how it forms, why it matters for wildlife, and how it shapes healthy soils. Children pressed leaves and grasses into clay to create their own pinch pots, a creative way to connect art with the ecosystems all around them.
By July, the focus shifted to water with Let It Flow! at the Friends of Rock Ridges Nature Trail in Thousand Island Park. On a bright summer morning, forty children and their accompanying adults hiked to the treehouse, played nature games, and joined local partners from Save The River, NYS DEC, and River Yoga to explore how water shapes the land and supports life. The day was filled with laughter, muddy shoes, and plenty of wide-eyed moments of discovery.
August brought some of the most beloved traditions of the KidsTreks program. On August 6, TILT hosted the 11th annual Ichthyologist for a Day at the Thousand Islands Biological Station on Governors Island. After a boat ride across the River, young adventurers joined Dr. John Farrell and his team of researchers for a hands-on introduction to freshwater science—studying macroinvertebrates, examining local fish and turtles, peeking behind the scenes at muskellunge research in the lab, and even practicing their casting skills off the dock. The day offered a rare glimpse into the science and stewardship that keep the St. Lawrence River healthy for generations to come.
Just a week later, Zenda Farms came alive with Farm Yard Fun Day. Nearly 100 attendees met the farm animals, explored connections between food, farming, and conservation, and enjoyed lively, hands-on activities throughout the morning. Children were especially delighted by the chance to get up close with Zenda’s sheep, learning how caring for animals and farmland plays a role in protecting the region’s landscapes. By sparking curiosity, encouraging exploration, and connecting families with the natural world, these programs are inspiring the next generation of river stewards who will carry TILT’s mission forward for the next 40 years.
And the season isn’t over yet. On Saturday, October 25th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Zenda Farms will once again welcome families for TILT’s Halloween Hike, a festive fall adventure full of thrills, chills, and nature-filled fun. The Zenda Trail Spur will be transformed into a spook-tacular trail with surprises around every bend, perfect for curious explorers of all ages. After the hike, families can meet native and exotic reptiles, enjoy Halloween-themed games, get their faces painted, and dive into hands-on exhibits hosted by local partners. Costumes are highly encouraged—and don’t forget to bring your favorite ghouls and goblins along! Registration is required. To sign up, email treks@tilandtrust.org, call 315-686-5345, or register online at tilandtrust.org.