Please Note: These Community Events Are Not Run by Wild Ones HGCNY
Below Are Two Types of Community Events: Upcoming Events and Weekly Events.
🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃 Upcoming Events 🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃
July 2, 2026
Let’s Hike: Indian Ovens Trail at Green Lakes State Park
When: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Thursday, July 2, 2026
Where: Green Lakes State Park, 7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville, NY 13066
Description: Join us on an adventurous hike overlooking Round Lake and through old growth forests. This moderate to challenging hike is about 3 miles over woodland trails. The trail surface may have tree roots and there are a few hills. We will meet near the playground in the Rolling Hills Campground.
The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Memorial Day Weekend (May 23rd) through Labor Day (September 7th) we charge $10 per vehicle and $35 per bus from 8am-7pm daily.
Link: https://parks.ny.gov/visit/events/lets-hike-indian-ovens-trail
July 8, 2026
Mindful Birding at Sapsucker Woods
When: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Where: Sapsucker Woods, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
Description: Join us for a peaceful mid-day break for Mindful Birding at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Weather permitting, we will sit outside on the shore of Sapsucker Woods Pond. We will provide binoculars and seating. Feel free to stop by for a little while or attend for the full hour.
We’ll begin with a brief sensory warm-up to help connect with the natural world, spend quiet time observing the pond and its birdlife, and conclude with a reflection exercise.
Mindful Birding blends traditional birdwatching with mindfulness practices to help participants slow down, tune in, and deepen their appreciation for both birds and the present moment.
This session is designed to:
- Promote overall well-being and calm
- Improve observation and listening skills
- Foster a more intentional understanding of birdlife
No prior birding or mindfulness experience is necessary.
Accessibility:
This is a stationary birding session, intentionally designed for birders with mobility considerations.We will provide folding chairs and benches.
Disability Access Information
Our parking lot has six van accessible spaces with no-curb access to paved areas. A wheelchair-accessible porta-potty is available in the parking lot and a wheelchair accessible, all-gender/family restroom and water fountain are available in the Visitor Center. We also have two wheelchairs available for your use on site. TCAT route 31 services the Lab of Ornithology. Contact Gadabout at (607) 273-1878 for paratransit options. Bike racks are located in our parking lot area.
Free and open to the public. All are welcome. No registration required.
Contact E-Mail: [email protected]
Contact Name: Sarah K Wagner
Link: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/event/mindful-birding-at-sapsucker-woods-3/2026-07-08/
July 10, 2026
Backlighting for Moths at Beaver Lake
When: 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday, July 10, 2026
Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Description: Enjoy an evening of Lepidopteran fun as we discover what moths and other nocturnal insects come to visit our blacklight! Bring flashlights or headlamps so you can safely make it back to your car after sunset.
Fee: $6/Member; $7/Nonmember; includes park admission
Link: https://beaverlakenature.org/events/view/blacklighting-for-moths36841/
July 11, 2026
The Evolution of Trees – a Walk through Time at Cornell Botanic Gardens
When: 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 11, 2026
Where: F. R. Newman Arboretum, Arboretum Rd, Ithaca, NY
Directions: Meet inside the Forest Home Drive entrance to the Arboretum, near the Flat Rock area and Plant Production Facility. Parking nearby. Click here for a Google Map showing the meeting location.
Description: How did the trees we know and love today come to be? Join us for a walk through 380 million years of tree evolution, using representative trees in the F.R. Newman Arboretum to explore the major stages in the development of modern trees. Visit trees that have barely changed in over 200 million years and learn about what changes are happening right now. You will also gain insights into the importance of certain trees to various cultures. Walks will be held rain or shine; please dress appropriately for the weather. Pre-registration is required as space is limited.
Instructors: David Weinstein, Forest Ecologist and Senior Research Associate Emeritus from Cornell’s Department of Natural Resources & the Environment, and Christina Stark, Senior Extension Associate Emerita, Division of Nutritional Sciences.
Fee: $12 general admission; Free for Cornell Botanic Gardens Access Pass holders.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-evolution-of-trees-a-walk-through-time-tickets-1986777440808
Link: https://events.cornell.edu/event/the-evolution-of-trees-a-walk-through-time-2026
July 14, 2026
Native Lawns: Ecological Solutions with CCE Tompkins County
When: 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Where: In-person at CCE‑Tompkins Education Center, 615 Willow Avenue, Ithaca, NY 14850‑3555, or online via Zoom
Description: Join us for a talk on exemplary green gardening practices using native plant species that are beautiful throughout every season. We will discuss native plant /insect /animal interactions as a key component in preserving biodiversity and creating a garden that blends aesthetics with habitat needs. Learn to create a balance in the garden that will sustain itself overtime with minimal additional inputs.
Instructor’s bio: Krissy Boys worked with volunteers and students for three decades in Cornell Botanic Garden’s Mundy Wildflower Garden. She was introduced to native plant gardening at the Brandywine River Museum and has worked to incorporate them more into landscapes ever since.
This class is offered in-person or via Zoom.
Fee: This program is valued at $20, however, please pay what you are able. Paying more than $20 will help others attend the class.
Register: https://ccetompkins.wufoo.com/forms/mbubdjc11511sy/
Link: https://ccetompkins.org/events/2026/07/14/native-lawns-ecological-solutions
July 17, 2026
July 31, 2026
August 7, 2026
Birding by Boat at Beaver Lake Nature Center
When: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., Friday, July 17, 2026, July 31, 2026, & August 7, 2026
Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Description: Let’s paddle the still morning waters of Beaver Lake by kayak as we listen and look for birds! Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and bring plenty of bug spray and sunscreen! Binoculars will be available to borrow. Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for filling out waivers.
Solo Kayaks Only:
- Solo Kayak: Can hold up to 280lbs
- One person per kayak
- Must be at least 10 years old
Registration (per session): $12/Member; $13/Nonmember; kayak rental included
Registration fee does not include park admission fee ($5/vehicle)
Link:
July 17, 2026
August 14, 2026
Owl Prowl at Beaver Lake Nature Center
When: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, July 17, 2026 & August 14, 2026
Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Description: Venture into Beaver Lake’s forest at dusk in search of the elusive owl. On our way we’ll learn about the different types of owls in our area and what makes them such fascinating raptors.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
Registration fee does not include park admission fee ($5/vehicle)
Link:
July 17, 2026
Solar Party: Hello Summer Skies at Baltimore Woods
When: 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Friday, July 17, 2026
Where: Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Rd, Marcellus, NY 13108
Description: Our first look at summer skies, plus the planet Venus. Come peer into the heart of our Milky Way galaxy with its bright clusters and nebulae. Cultures across the world and throughout time are united in a fascination with the night sky. Humans have used stars to mark the passage of time, tell stories, build mythologies, and navigate across vast dark oceans. With powerful telescopes and a wealth of knowledge, Bob Piekiel is your tour guide to the stars and planets, revealing the secrets of the far away, inspiring us to think about how special our little green and blue ball in space is. Backup date: 7/18/26
More Details: Dress warmly, this program will be outdoors in our main parking lot that has a gravel surface. This program is designed for ages 10+
Free but registration is required.
Register: https://secure.everyaction.com/iTwmq4fT8EKoNLFMCGMSfg2
Link: https://baltimorewoods.org/event/star-party-hello-summer-skies/
July 24, 2026
Becoming a Monarch Waystation at Beaver Lake Nature Center
When: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Friday, July 24, 2026
Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Description: Help save monarch butterflies! Join us for this indoor and outdoor program where you’ll learn how to transform your yard into a safe haven for monarchs on their migratory journey.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
Registration fee does not include park admission fee ($5/vehicle)
Link: https://beaverlakenature.org/events/view/becoming-a-monarch-waystation/
July 24, 2026
July 31, 2026
Friday Evening Wildlife Walk at Beaver Lake Nature Center
When: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, July 24, 2026 & July 31, 2026
Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Description: Like people, wildlife becomes more active on cool summer evenings. We’ll stroll the meadows, forests, and lakeside in search of wildlife such as owl, deer, fox, and osprey.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Link:
July 25, 2026
Sunset Kayak Tour at Beaver Lake Nature Center
When: 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, July 25, 2026
Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Description: As the sun sets, tour Beaver Lake with a naturalist. Paddle along the lakeshore in search of wildlife getting ready to turn in and those just waking up! Previous experience with kayaking is recommended. Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for filling out waivers.
Solo Kayaks Only:
- Solo Kayak: Can hold up to 280lbs
- One person per kayak
- Must be at least 10 years old
Registration: $18/Member; $20/Nonmember; kayak rental included
Registration fee does not include park admission fee ($5/vehicle)
Link: https://beaverlakenature.org/events/view/sunset-kayak-tour36861/
July 28, 2026
Trail Cam Demo at Beaver Lake Nature Center
When: 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Description: Over the years, we have collected dozens of wildlife videos from our trail camera. Come learn how to ID animals from video and take a look at the animals we have documented. This program will start with a presentation inside, and end with a short hike outside to set up the camera.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Link: https://beaverlakenature.org/events/view/trail-cam-demo/
July 31, 2026
Mindful Botany Walk at Cornell Botanic Gardens
When: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, July 31, 2026
Where: Brian C. Nevin Welcome Center, 124 Comstock Knoll Road, Ithaca, NY 14850
Description: Join Cornell Botanic Gardens staff to observe the beauty and drama of nature unfolding on monthly nature walks. While exploring various paths and gardens each month, we will practice mindfulness by dedicating our attention to the present moment and fully observing and appreciating the amazing plant transformations that take place throughout the year. Walks will be held rain or shine.
Fee: Free; donations welcome. Pre-registration is not required.
Link: https://events.cornell.edu/event/mindful-botany-walk-2026
July 31, 2026 (Group A)
August 1, 2026 (Group B)
Invasive Species Workshops at Woodchuck Hill with the Central NY Land Trust
When: 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Friday, July 31, 2026 (Group A) or 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, August 1, 2026 (Group B)
Where: Woodchuck Hill Field & Forest Preserve, 7213 Woodchuck Hill Road, Fayetteville, NY 13066
Description: Join us for a fun, hands-on afternoon learning about invasive plants and how to help restore local ecosystems! We’ll kick things off with an interactive presentation covering what invasive species are, why they matter, how to identify common invaders, and the benefits of native plants. There will be trivia, games, and plenty of discussion.
We will also be taking you outside for a guided walk at our Woodchuck Hill Field & Forest Preserve, to show you how to spot invasive and native plants in the field while learning proper ID and removal techniques.
The afternoon will wrap up with a final trivia challenge with prizes! Whether you’re new to invasive species or looking to build your skills, you’ll leave with practical knowledge, empowering you to make a real impact on your local environment!
While not required to attend, a $5 per person donation is suggested.
***The same class is being held each day, so please only attend one session.***
Register:
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Mondays
April 20, 2026 to October 26, 2026
Tree “Buds” Weekly Tree Phenology Walks at Cayuga Nature Center
When: 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Mondays, April 20, 2026 to October 26, 2026, no walk August 17, 2026
Where: Cayuga Nature Center, 1420 Taughannock Blvd., Ithaca, NY 14850
Description: Be our tree “buds” and join our weekly citizen science walk to observe and collect data on seasonal changes in trees.
Rain or shine, we will monitor when buds break, leaves emerge, flowers bloom, fruits ripen, and when leaves change color and fall. We send the data to the USA National Phenology Network, which makes it available to researchers who are trying to understand the mechanisms behind seasonal changes and how they are influenced by a changing climate.
You’ll learn how to make these types of observations, and how to do this at home or in your neighborhood.
This event is free and everyone is welcome to attend. We’ll meet in front of the Cayuga Nature Center lodge at the beginning of the program.
Link: https://www.priweb.org/ Scroll down to What’s New and click Open Full Calendar to see these events.
Saturdays
Beginner Bird Walks at Sapsucker Woods
When: 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., Saturdays
Where: Sapsucker Woods, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
Description: Join us every Saturday and Sunday morning at 8:30 am at the front entrance of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. We will walk the trails of Sapsucker Woods looking and listening for birds. These 90-minute walks are targeted toward beginners, but all levels are welcome. Binoculars are available for loan. Please dress for the weather. Walks are led by Cayuga Bird Club volunteers.
Our parking lot has six van accessible spaces with no-curb access to paved areas. The trails throughout Sapsucker Woods are all mostly flat and mulched, with short sections of wooden boardwalk, and some exposed roots. Boardwalks have a slight incline leading to and from the main walkway. There are several benches are found along the 0.75 mile Wilson Trail. A wheelchair-accessible porta-potty is available in the parking lot and a wheelchair accessible, all-gender/family restroom and water fountain are available in the Visitor Center after 10 a.m. We also have two wheelchairs available for your use on site.
If you are attending with a group of 8 or more, please let us know so that we can recruit more walk leaders. Contact Suan Yong.
Link: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/visit/events/#calendar
Saturdays
July 11, 18, 25, 2026
no walk July 4, 2026
Guided Nature Walk at Rice Creek Field Station
When: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, July 11, 18, & 25, 2026
Where: Rice Creek Field Station, 193 Thompson Road, Oswego, NY 13126
Description: Rice Creek’s naturalists will be your guides as you explore the forests, fields, wetlands, and waterways of Rice Creek Field Station, a 350-acre wildlife preserve dedicated to supporting research and education.
These free walks are open to the general public and suitable for all ages. Walks are 1 mile or less over gentle to moderate terrain on one of Rice Creek’s four trails, and approximately 1 hour in length. Adult- and youth-sized snowshoes (for ages 3+) are available in winter, trail conditions permitting. If snow is insufficient, we will go on a boot walk. Sturdy snow- or hiking boots should be worn in winter regardless.
During the walk, a naturalist will discuss the cultural and ecological history of Rice Creek from its early days as working farmland to today. Additionally, the naturalist will identify and interpret discoveries such as animal sightings, plant blooms, seasonal changes, and more. Participants are encouraged to keep their eyes open for discoveries and ask questions along the way. Photography, journaling, and sketching are all welcome activities during the walk.
Participants should come dressed for the weather and tick prevention. Boots are advisable as trails may be muddy, especially during late fall, winter, and spring. An adult must accompany children under 17 years of age. For questions, please reach out to the Rice Creek staff at [email protected] or 315.312.6677.
Sundays
Beginner Bird Walks at Sapsucker Woods
When: 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., Sundays
Where: Sapsucker Woods, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
Description: Join us every Saturday and Sunday morning at 8:30 am at the front entrance of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. We will walk the trails of Sapsucker Woods looking and listening for birds. These 90-minute walks are targeted toward beginners, but all levels are welcome. Binoculars are available for loan. Please dress for the weather. Walks are led by Cayuga Bird Club volunteers.
Our parking lot has six van accessible spaces with no-curb access to paved areas. The trails throughout Sapsucker Woods are all mostly flat and mulched, with short sections of wooden boardwalk, and some exposed roots. Boardwalks have a slight incline leading to and from the main walkway. There are several benches are found along the 0.75 mile Wilson Trail. A wheelchair-accessible porta-potty is available in the parking lot and a wheelchair accessible, all-gender/family restroom and water fountain are available in the Visitor Center after 10 a.m. We also have two wheelchairs available for your use on site.
If you are attending with a group of 8 or more, please let us know so that we can recruit more walk leaders. Contact Suan Yong.
Link: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/visit/events/#calendar