Join us for these exciting Upcoming Events and Outings in February, March and April!
Our field trips are a great way to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of our county, meet new and interesting people, and learn about the natural world with our volunteer naturalists and outdoor guides.
For more information and weather cancellations, please call our office at (845) 343-0840, x12. Most outings have a suggested donation of $5 per person, or $10 per family, except where noted as free or where special fees apply. Registration for these events is suggested, but not required, except where noted. All donations go toward the future stewardship of our preserves. For directions to the preserves, please click on the corresponding link.
Saturday, February 6, 10 am: “Snowshoeing” at Fuller Mountain Preserve, Town of Warwick. Led by Karin Roux, Orange County Land Trust Director of Conservation and Stewardship, this 1+ mile moderate hike through the 255-acre wooded preserve leads to fantastic vistas overlooking the Warwick Valley. Bring your own snowshoes. Not intended for very young children. If no snow, this outing will continue as a winter hike, no snowshoes needed. Meeting time is 10 am at the information kiosk and parking area on Bowen Road.
Saturday, March 27, 10 am: “Vernal Pool Workshop” – Laurel Hill Preserve, Town of Minisink. Come explore vernal pools and learn about the species that rely on them for survival such as frogs, fairy shrimp, salamanders and newts! A hands-on, outdoor activity for families and people for all ages led by OCLT Project Coordinator Meredith Taylor, who is also NYS DEC Hudson River Estuary Program Biodiversity Outreach Assistant and Assistant Coordinator of the North American Amphibian Monitoring Program for the Hudson Valley . Registration is suggested as space is limited. A donation of $10 per family or $5 per person is suggested.
Saturday, April 10, 10 am: “Hike Schunnemunk Mountain” with Orange County Land Trust past president, Dr. Douglas McBride, an avid hiker and outdoorsman. This easy to moderate, family friendly hike leads to a breathtaking overlook of the Hudson River Valley. Meeting place is at the hikers’ parking area on Clove Road just south of Hil-Mar Lodge in Salisbury Mills. All hikers are encouraged to wear comfortable boots and bring a bag lunch and plenty of water. A donation of $5 per person is suggested. Reservations are not required but are appreciated.
Saturday, April 24, 10 am: “Slippery, Slimy Salamander Walk” at Fuller Mountain Preserve, Town of Warwick. Join OCLT volunteer naturalist John Yrizarry for this very popular family friendly nature walk. Learn about the habits and habitats of these hard to find creatures that live in and around Fullers Brook. All are encouraged to wear mud boots! Reservations are not required, but are appreciated. A donation of $5 per person or $10 per family is suggested. All proceeds go towards the future stewardship of Fuller Mountain.
Coming this May:
Join us for letterboxing at Moonbeams Preserve! Learn all about this popular outdoor activity with our friends from the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum then take a hike and see if you can uncover clues to find our hidden letterbox!