The Minna Anthony Common Nature Center is an amazingly beautiful nature center with every kind of habitat imaginable, many trails, and a few other surprises for those who decide to visit. Located in the Wellesley Island State Park, this Nature Center is one of the largest nature centers not only in the New York State Parks system but in all of New York State.
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Nature Center
Visit the Nature Center’s main building to see exhibits and learn about the many habitats that you will hike through. There is even a special area for children with a hands-on learning experience.
Hiking
There are 9 miles of trails within the 600-acre Nature Center, and each of them is stunning in its own way due to the number of different ecosystems throughout the park. There are wetlands, forests, giant rock outcroppings, and meadows. The most popular trail is clearly the Eel Bay Trail (River Trail or Outer Loop Trail) which runs alongside the St. Lawrence River. It is approximately 2 miles from the Nature Center building to an area called the Narrows, but it is well worth the hike. This trail has many scenic views of the St. Lawrence River along the way and some unique features in the park, such as glacial potholes.
If you decide to take the Eel Bay Trail, make sure you follow it through to the Middle Trail; that way you can get a chance to see the gorgeous view of Eel Bay from the top of the hill. It gets pretty hot up on the hill, so make sure you bring some water with you. We loved our hike here and found the trails really beautiful. You couldn’t ask for a more picturesque spot in the Thousand Islands.
If you visit in the wintertime, there are 7 miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Country skis and snowshoes are available for rent.
Unique Features
Located along the Eel Bay Trail are several glacial potholes. These are interesting geological features. These deep holes are perfectly round. The park has them covered over with a protective wire grate to both keep people from falling in and protect the potholes.
If you are looking for a nice picnic spot, there are tables in places all over the Nature Center. There are also restrooms available on the trails.
Butterfly House
Everyone loves seeing butterflies fluttering from flower to flower. If you schedule your visit right, you can see the butterfly at the Nature Center’s Butterfly House. The House isn’t far from the main Nature Center building, so if you aren’t up for a hike, this is totally doable. This is a neat net-covered structure where you can walk as the butterflies fly around you; however, you need to make sure you stay on the path so you don’t accidentally step on any butterflies.
Wildlife
The wildlife on the Island itself is abundant and is a unique habitat for many animals. The Island is part of the duck migration and has excellent fishing for perch, bullhead pike, and bass. November through January, visitors can spot Bald Eagles. Keep your eyes peeled for osprey and their nests during the summer months.
Hours and Admission
Hours: The park is open from dawn until dusk
Admission: The Nature Center is free with your admission to Wellesley Island State Park.
Getting to Minna Anthony Common Nature Center
Address: 44927 Cross Island Rd, Fairview NY
Google Map Link
The Nature Center is located in Wellesley Island State Park. There are lots of signs to guide you in the park.
Have you visited the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center? What did you like about it? What is your favorite nature center in New York State? We would love to hear from you. Leave us a comment below.
More Photos From Minna Anthony Common Nature Center
