Visit Mashomack Preserve in December while trails are open daily from dawn to dusk. Come January, the preserve will be accessible to the public on weekends only.
In December, the Visitor Center exhibits are open Thursday to Saturday, 10 AM to 3 PM. Restrooms are available daily from 8 AM to 4 PM.
‘Seasonal Snowflakes’
Families may register children ages 4 to 8 for the year’s final Saturday Seedlings program. “Seasonal Snowflakes” takes place Saturday, December 17, from 9 to 10 AM.
Kids will learn about “the magic of snow,” Mashomack Preserve says in the event notice. “We’ll explore the natural world and learn about different animals and habitats at the preserve.”
Activities will include crafts, snacks, and exploring our trails. To reserve a spot in the drop-off program, email mashomackpreserve@tnc.org.
Winter solstice hike
Welcome the winter solstice with a sunrise walk in Mashomack’s meadows on Wednesday, December 21, from 7 to 8 AM.
Dried flowers, lingering berries, and still active birds hint at the abundance of the past season and winter’s subtle but thriving life. Dress warmly.
Winter evening woods walk
Mashomack Preserve will light up a family-friendly trail for a winter evening woods walk. Enjoy a half-mile walk and read the special Book in the Woods, a beautifully illustrated version of Robert Frost’s poem “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.”
The winter evening woods walk is Thursday, December 29, between 5 and 7:30 PM. All are welcome. Bring your flashlight.
Christmas Bird Count
Over 100 years ago, the Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count started as an alternative to shooting birds. Mashomack has participated in this critical annual census for decades, helping to document the trends in bird conservation.
The preserve welcomes experienced and learning birders to participate in the survey all day on Saturday, December 31. Teams will survey designated areas of the preserve. Advance registration is required at mashomackpreserve@tnc.org.
Visit the Audubon NY Christmas Bird Count webpage to learn more about this event.
December Book in the Woods
The December Book in the Woods is “Ten Ways to Hear “now” by Cathy Camper. Take a self-guided, half-mile walk along the Red Trail and read pages posted along the way.
The book tells the story of Lina, who wakes up one winter morning to the silence of a snowfall. But there are many ways to hear that it has snowed. Ploomf, thwomp, and scritch/scratch are some; follow the trail to learn more.
Book in the Woods at Mashomack Preserve is the perfect family nature adventure and a great way to get your kids into the outdoors.
