SUNDOWN FOREST OPEN DISCOVERY
Sundown Wild Forest is located in the southern Catskills. We will explore the flora and fauna in this mature second growth forest. Forest succession and regrowth will be discussed. We will walk on trails for the most part, with short forays offtrail. Trail conditions are generally good, with some short steep slopes and occasional downed …
CATSKILL PEAKS THOMAS COLE/BLACK DOME
Distance: 8 miles, Elevation Gain: 1800’ This will be an out-and-back hike from Elmer Barnum Road near Maplecrest, NY. The route climbs two minor peaks (Caudal and Camel’s Hump) through 2nd growth northern hardwood forest before reaching first growth on the slopes of Thomas Cole and Black Dome. We will pass the cairn at the …
BREEDING BIRDS AND BUTTERFLIES
The Esopus Creek Conservancy and John Burroughs Natural History Society are co-sponsoring a guided nature walk at Esopus Bend Nature Preserve in Saugerties on Saturday, June 13, 2026, to observe summer breeding birds and butterflies. We will identify birds by sight and sound as we explore the Preserve’s woodlands, wetlands, and meadow, pausing along the …
OUTDOORS CREATIVITY/ PLEIN AIR
A new offering for our field trip schedule that has been long suggested by Trustee Berrios. A location chock full of inspiration based on seasonal occurrence or nature’s sheer beauty will be decided closer to the outing. All forms of creativity and expression are encouraged by participants. Please contact Laurie Berrios ( laurieberrios@gmail.com ) to …
BEST FRIENDS WALK, SUMMER SOLSTICE
An occasion to visit nature with your best dog and human friends! John Burroughs described the dog as the “ideal walking companion” in Ways of Nature in 1905. We will visit this spectacular nature preserve that was a JB favorite in all four astronomical seasons this year to prove that point. There are a variety …
DAMSELS AND DRAGONS AT BURROUGHS SANCTUARY
Odonates take center stage on this outing that is co-sponsored with our host the John Burroughs Association. The sanctuary’s pond and neighboring habitat make this a prime location for Frank Beres to share his wealth of knowledge and identification skills regarding Damselflies and Dragonflies. Please register with Frank (othernaturephoto@gmail.com ) to find our meet up …
EASTERN NABA BUTTERFLY COUNT
Rain Date: Sunday, June 28 Join a field team to census butterflies in Esopus Bend Nature Preserve, or one of dozens of other local sites as a participant in the annual Eastern Catskills North American Butterfly Association (NABA) “Fourth of July” Butterfly Count on Saturday, June 28, 2025. The Eastern Catskills count circle includes a …
BUTTERFLIES AT THORN PRESERVE
The Catskill Center’s Thorn Preserve can be bustling with butterflies during this timely visit while the Common Milkweed is in bloom. Please register with Steve Chorvas (schorvas@gmail.com ) who will lead this walk and provides comprehensive knowledge of butterfly life and the plants they are dependent upon. Attendance may be limited.
SUMMER YOUNG NATURALIST OUTING
A timely visit to Thorn Preserve can hopefully provide a real spectacle of Baltimore Checkerspots and the fragrance of blooming Milkweed in the air. Many other insects, wildflowers, and birds call the preserve’s large meadow home for the summer and will be encountered on this special outing geared to stimulate and encourage young naturalists. Please …
OUTDOORS CREATIVITY/PLEIN AIR ART
This is a unique stop on the JBNHS field trip schedule, suitable for the whole family to enjoy together and not to be missed. A location chock full of inspiration based on seasonal occurrence or nature’s sheer beauty will be decided closer to the outing. All forms of creativity and expression are encouraged by participants. …
DOWNLOAD THE REFRIGERATOR READY FIELD TRIP LIST FOR 2026
All participants should be aware of existing guidelines and new field trip protocol listed below:
Participant responsibility agreement while attending a JBNHS field trip: By registering, each participant acknowledges their acceptance of the Individual’s Responsibilities.
Individual’s Responsibilities are:
- To stay with the group, follow trip leader’s requests, and do not separate unless you notify trip leader
- To understand that out-of-doors activities involve hazards and that one participates at one’s own risk
- To wear clothing and footwear appropriate to the terrain, and for sun and insect challenges as well
- To adhere to the ABA Birding Code of Ethics, respect and preserve the flora, fauna, and properties we visit
- To be mindful and courteous to other participants
Additionally:
- Optics may be shared if those involved are comfortable with doing so
- Carpooling is at the discretion of participants.
- Preregistration is required for all field trips and participation may be limited.