Otsego Outdoors

Clark Tower Hike with ADK
2024-10-15 09:45 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Clark Tower Trails, 1194 Co Hwy 33, Cooperstown, New York
Join members of the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club for a guided hike. All ADK Chapter hikes are open to the public. They encourage anyone interested in joining the club to come for a hike or two and see what they are all about.
Meet at 9:45 am, hike begins at 10:00 am. More information: https://susqadk.org/outing-schedule/

Mushroom Walk with OCCA
2024-10-13 13:00 - 15:00 | SUNY Oneonta College Camp, College Camp Road, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States
OCCA’s popular mushroom walks are back! Join us for an enlightening expedition led by local forager, Shane Gardner, as we explore the lush forests at College Camp in Oneonta.
During this immersive two-hour session, Shane Gardner will guide participants through the fundamentals of mushroom foraging, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for mycology. The walk will cover various aspects of mushroom hunting, including:

Foraging Basics: Learn the essential principles of responsible and sustainable foraging practices. Discover the do’s and don’ts of mushroom hunting, including proper equipment, clothing, and safety measures.

Mushroom Identification: Gain insights into the key features used to identify different mushroom species. Shane will demonstrate how to examine cap shape, gill structure, stem characteristics, and other crucial identifiers.

Tree Species Recognition: Understand the symbiotic relationships between mushrooms and trees. Learn to identify various tree species and their associated fungi, enhancing your ability to locate specific mushroom varieties.

Free, register in advance at https://www.occainfo.org/calendar/mushroom-walk-october

OCCA Members Day at Gilbert Lake State Park
2024-10-12 11:00 - 15:00 | Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Rd, Laurens, NY, 13796, United States
Thank you for being an OCCA member! Let us treat you to a day at Gilbert Lake State Park as a show of appreciation! We will offer short hikes around the lake, fun children’s activities, and lots of free and delicious food for everyone.
Trails may be muddy so bring shoes you are okay with getting dirty. This is a free day available to OCCA members only!
Not a member? Not a problem. Purchase an annual membership today, and you can come along!

5K Mud Run at Waterhill Farm
2024-10-12 10:00 - 13:00 | Waterhill Farm, 3050 County Hwy 8, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States
The Family Service Association will host a Mud Run, an obstacle race for all ages, shapes and sizes at Waterhill Farm in Oneonta. This 5K run will take you around the beautiful Waterhill Farm and have you climbing unique obstacles, practice your balance across waist deep water, and jumping over fire!
Run, walk, crawl and laugh your way through the course. Competitive and non-competitive classes offered.
We will have a full day of activities which will include: Local DJ – D. Wooden, Food Trucks, Awestruck Ciders and will finish the day with Music Mafia playing at the finish line area.

Get the Kids Out Hike: Parslow Road
2024-10-11 13:00 - 14:00 | Parslow Road Conservation Area, 127 Parslow Road, Oaksville, NY, 13337, United States
Come out and explore the Parslow Road Conservation Area for a fall hike on the school conference day in October. We will explore the varied ecosystems, tromp over the boardwalks, and catch some fall colors.
Register in advance at occainfo.org

Homeschool Nature Walk: Clark Tower Trails
2024-10-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Clark Tower Trails, 1194 Co Hwy 33, Cooperstown, New York
Stroll through the Clark Tower Trails with OCCA Tower Trails with OCCA educator Shelby MacLeish. We will enjoy a guided walk to observe nature’s changes during fall while enjoying the crisp autumn air. Hope to see you there.

More information at occainfo.org

Queer Outdoors: Fall Foliage Paddle
2024-10-06 14:00 - 17:00 | Portlandville Fishing Access Site, Route 28, Portlandville, NY, 13834, United States
Fall Foliage Paddle from Portlandville Launch
Join us at Portlandville Launch for a paddle towards Crumhorn Launch! We have a limited number of kayaks and quite a few canoes available, so please let us know when you register if you will need one. This is an improved-accessibility launch and we are happy to assist anyone who needs a hand getting out on the water!
Location: Portlandville Fishing Access Site, Portlandville, NY 13834
Please contact Will Kuss at 607-375-7280 or water@occainfo.org with any questions!
Please sign up at occainfo.org

Open House Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society Sanctuary
2024-10-05 10:00 - 14:00 | DOAS Sanctuary and Franklin Mountain Hawkwatch, 52 Grange Hall Road Spur, Oneonta, New York, 13820
Come enjoy an open house at the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society Sanctuary on Franklin Mountain, just outside of Oneonta. The event is free and open to the public.
At 10 a.m., a Franklin Hawk Watch counter will conduct a workshop on how to identify flying raptors.
At 11:00 a.m., there will be a trail walk through the sanctuary culminating at the Hawkwatch.
At 12:30 p.m., DOAS will host Deb and John Saltis of Falcon Heart Rescue to see and learn about rescued birds. Falcon Heart Rescue is an organization that rehabilitates and cares for birds in need. Hawks, owls, and an eagle have appeared with them in the past, with ravens and crows most likely to join the event this year. More info about Falcon Heart Rescue can be found on their website: https://falconheartrescue.com/
A variety of complimentary snacks and drinks will be available throug

Hike with ADK at SUNY Oneonta College Camp
2024-10-01 09:45 - 12:00 | SUNY Oneonta College Camp, College Camp Road, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States

Mushroom Walk with OCCA
2024-09-29 13:00 - 15:00
OCCA’s popular mushroom walks are back! Join OCCA for an enlightening expedition led by local forager, Shane Gardner, as we explore the lush forests along the Butternut Creek in Morris.
During this immersive two-hour session, Shane Gardner will guide participants through the fundamentals of mushroom foraging, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for mycology. The walk will cover various aspects of mushroom hunting, including:

Foraging Basics: Learn the essential principles of responsible and sustainable foraging practices. Discover the do’s and don’ts of mushroom hunting, including proper equipment, clothing, and safety measures.

Mushroom Identification: Gain insights into the key features used to identify different mushroom species. Shane will demonstrate how to examine cap shape, gill structure, stem characteristics, and other crucial identifiers.

Tree Species Recognition: Understand the symbiotic relationships between mushrooms and trees. Learn to identify various tree species and their associated fungi, enhancing your ability to locate specific mushroom varieties.

Free. Register in advance at occainfo.org
You will be emailed starting point once you register. Thank you

Oneonta Epic
2024-09-29 09:00 - 12:00 | Wilber Park, Albert Morris Drive, Oneonta, New York, 13820
Calling all mountain bikers! Join in the Oneonta Epic and enjoy 20-40 miles of trail riding, depending how far you want to go.
Free and open to all.
Meet on the upper level of Wilber Park in Oneonta at 9 am. Any questions, contact Otsego Bicycles, otsegobicycles@gmail.com

Free Fishing Day in NY
2024-09-28 | New York
Free fishing days offer New York State residents and non-residents who are 16 and older* to fish without a freshwater fishing license or recreational marine fishing registration (*Kids under 16 can always fish for free!).
2024 Free Fishing Days Schedule

June 29-30
September 28 (National Hunting and Fishing Day)
November 11 (Veterans Day)

These days offer the perfect opportunity to try out fishing for the first time, to get back into the sport, or to take a friend or the whole family along to fish! Even though a license is not needed, all other fishing regulations apply.
See the I FISH NY Beginner’s Guide to Freshwater Fishing

Hike with ADK at Thayer Farm (Biological Field Station)
2024-09-24 09:45 - 12:00 | Thayer Farm (SUNY Biological Field Station), 7027 State Hwy 80, Springfield, NY, United States
Hike Thayer Farm at the SUNY Biological Field Station overlooking Otsego Lake in Springfield with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Guided hikes are free and open to the public.
Meet at 9:45 for announcements and sign-in. Hike starts at 10 and ends around noon. Hike leaders Bill and Kath Holmstrom 607-988-7180.

Drops to Hops Bike Race/Ride
2024-09-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown, New York, 13326
Join us for an unforgettable bike race/ride that starts and ends at Brewery Ommegang – the perfect combination of scenic routes, challenging terrain, and post-ride festivities! As the fall leaves paint the landscape with vibrant hues, you’ll navigate through picturesque secondary roads, soaking in breathtaking views along the way.
Whether you’re a competitive cyclist seeking a thrilling challenge or simply looking for a fun ride with friends, our event promises something for everyone. With exhilarating uphills and exhilarating downhills, you’ll experience the full spectrum of cycling excitement.
For our riders aged 21 and over, Brewery Ommegang has a special treat in store – your first pint on the house! And that’s not all – all awards will be provided by Ommegang, ensuring a memorable celebration of your accomplishments.
The race starts and ends at Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown, NY 13326.
“A” race – 45.35 miles
“B” race – 23.14 miles

Individual registration received on or before Thursday, September 19, 2024: $40
Individual registration after Thursday, September 19, 2024: $55
* We will have a 5 person “TEAM” race. Each person must register individually and specify on their registration sheet if they are with a team. The 5 person team will have each racer’s time added. An overall award will be presented to the team with the lowest total time. It will be a non-gender specific race and 5 people must race in the A group to count.
Note: Athletes must be 16 years old or older to participate.

Race Registration
Racers may pre-register online. Day of race check-in and day of race registration is available at Brewery Ommegang from 8:30-9:30am.

Butternut Creek Fun Float
2024-09-15 10:00 - 13:00 | 100 Spring Street, Gilbertsville, NY, 100 Spring Street, Gilbertsville, NY
Join OCCA and the Butternut Valley Alliance for this easy-going paddle down the beautiful Butternut Creek. September is a lovely time to paddle, with some early fall colors, late summer wildflowers, migrating birds and more. We’ll put in at 100 Spring Street in Gilbertsville and paddle down to Copes Corners Park, a distance of about 4 miles. Bring your own canoe/kayak or reserve a space in an OCCA canoe (it’s free!).

Sign up at: https://www.occainfo.org/calendar/butternut-creek-fun-float-1

Otsego Land Frolic
2024-09-14 15:00 - 17:00 | Cherry Valley, NY
Join the Otsego Land Trust for informational and fun workshops and walks at privately owned conservation easement properties protected through Otsego Land Trust in Cherry Valley. Free and open to the public, but please sign up in advance by September 6 as space is limited.
3:00 – 4:00 PM

Water Conservation Spotlight Walk: Join Daniel Stitch, Associate Professor of Biology at SUNY Oneonta and Secretary-Treasurer for the NY Chapter of the American Fisheries Society, and Miranda A. Kearney, Assistant Professor at the Biology Department at SUNY Oneonta on a walk to learn about the importance of wetlands and fresh water, how to support wetlands and water on your own land, and real conservation work being done in Cherry Valley.

Invasive Identification and Eradication Walk: Walk with Otsego County Conservation Association’s Jeff O’Handley and learn how to find and eradicate invasive species on your property.

4:00 – 5:00 PM

Wetlands and Amphibian Walk: Join Elizabeth Bastiaans, Associate Professor of Biology at SUNY Oneonta in a search for amphibians and learn about biodiversity.

How to Care for your Forest: Join Nathan Waterfield, an arborist from TimberWorks Forest Management in Cherry Valley to walk through a forest that has been protected forever, and learn about ways to support a healthy forest.

An invitation-only reception will be held from 5 pm to 7 pm for conservation easement landowners, donors, and partners.

Franklin Mountain Hawkwatch and Citizen Science with DOAS
2024-09-11 19:00 - 20:30 | A.J. Reed Science Discovery Center, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta, NY
Part of the OCCA Be Informed Lecture series, this program at the A.J. Reed Science Discovery Center will cover Franklin Mountain Hawkwatch, one of New York State’s premiere fall raptor migration sties. Andy Mason will
discuss the data gathered at the site as part of a largely citizen science effort to monitor hawk and eagle populations and movements in North America. Franklin Mt. is noted for late season flights of Red-tailed Hawks and Golden Eagles. In 2018, 323 Goldens were tallied at the site, the highest total in the 35 year history of the hawkwatch. He will also give a brief overview of the Audubon Chapter’s other citizen science efforts.
In conjunction with the program, OCCA will sponsor a visit to the Franklin Mt. Hawkwatch on Sunday, Sept. 15 at 9:30 a.m. This time period coincides with the peak movement of Broad-winged Hawks, a species that can travel in flocks of up to a hundred birds under the right conditions.
Andy Mason is co-president of the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Soc. and a founder of the Franklin Mt. Hawkwatch. He is past chair of the Audubon Council of NY State, and past president of the NY State Ornithological Assoc. He has been an active birder for over 35 years, participated in the NY State Breeding Bird Atlases, and has lead bird workshops for the Appalachian Mountain Club.

Intro to Birdwatching
2024-09-11 18:00 - 19:00 | Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta, NY
Learn about the joys of birdwatching with the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society. This free program will be held at the Huntington Memorial Library in Oneonta.

Please register in advance: https://hmloneonta.org/adult-programs/

Homeschool Nature Walk with OCCA
2024-09-10 13:00 - 15:00 | DOAS Sanctuary and Franklin Mountain Hawkwatch, 52 Grange Hall Road Spur, Oneonta, New York, 13820
Join OCCA’s Assistant Director, Shelby MacLeish for a magical autumn hike at the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Sanctuary. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of fall, spot wildlife preparing for winter, and learn about the fascinating changes happening in our local ecosystems.

2-hour family-friendly hike
Explore forests, meadows, and wetlands
Learn about bird migration and animal hibernation.

Don’t miss this chance to connect with nature and celebrate the beauty of fall. Register now!

Star Field Hike with ADK
2024-09-10 09:45 - 12:00 | Star Field, Chicken Farm Hill Road, Cooperstown, New York
Join the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club for a Tuesday morning hike at Star Field in Cooperstown. Hikes are free and open to the public. For more information, please go to https://susqadk.org/outing-schedule/

Meet at 9:45 for announcements and sign-in. Hike starts at 10 and ends around noon. Hike leader Sarah Patterson 607-267-7427.

Queer Outdoors: Vroman's Nose Hike
2024-09-08 14:00 - 17:00 | Vroman’s Nose, 264 Mill Valley Road, Middleburgh, NY, 12122
Vroman’s Nose is a short drive from Oneonta and a quick, relatively steep hike with an amazing view as a payoff. We will hike up and have iced tea on the slab, then take it easy on the way down. If you need a ride we will help coordinate!
Location: Vroman’s Nose Hiking Trail, 264 Mill Valley Rd, Middleburgh, NY 12122
Please contact Will Kuss at 607-375-7280 or water@occainfo.org with any questions!

Register for the free hike at occainfo.org

September Mushroom Walk
2024-09-08 14:00 - 16:00
Exciting news for nature enthusiasts and culinary adventurers! OCCA’s popular mushroom walks are making a comeback, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of fungi. Join us for an enlightening expedition led by local forager, Shane Gardner, as we explore the lush forests just outside of Cooperstown.
During this immersive two-hour session, Shane Gardner will guide participants through the fundamentals of mushroom foraging, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for mycology. The walk will cover various aspects of mushroom hunting, including:

Foraging Basics: Learn the essential principles of responsible and sustainable foraging practices. Discover the do’s and don’ts of mushroom hunting, including proper equipment, clothing, and safety measures.

Mushroom Identification: Gain insights into the key features used to identify different mushroom species. Shane will demonstrate how to examine cap shape, gill structure, stem characteristics, and other crucial identifiers.

Tree Species Recognition: Understand the symbiotic relationships between mushrooms and trees. Learn to identify various tree species and their associated fungi, enhancing your ability to locate specific mushroom varieties.

Sign up at occainfo.org. Exact location will be sent out to registered participants.

Geology Walk (Registration Full)
2024-09-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Robert Woodruff Learning Center, NY-80, Jordanville, NY, 13361, United States
Join OCCA and SUNY Oneonta Professor of Geology, Les Hasbargen to explore the rocks, caves, waterfalls and fossilized plants along Otsquago Creek by the Owen D. Young Nature Trail and examine the interesting interactions between the rocks and waters of the gorge.
The Robert Woodruff Learning Center is located on the north side of the Owen D. Young Central School campus.
Registration is now full

I-Spy Invasive Species
2024-09-07 10:00 - 13:00 | Crumhorn Pond Fishing Access, Susquehanna State Forest, 42.556314 N, 74.942386 W
Join OCCA and CRISP to learn how to ID common aquatic and riparian invasive plants and how they threaten the Susquehanna Watershed while enjoying an easy paddle down the river. We’ll start at the Crumhorn Fishing Access Site in Maryland, NY, and end at the Portlandville Fishing Access site.
This is a calm stretch of river friendly to new and experienced paddlers alike. We’ll see aquatic and terrestrial species alike, including curly leaf pondweed, water chestnut, Japanese knotweed, and more.
Bring water, a snack (or lunch!) and dress to be on the river for 2+ hours.
Sign up through the CRISP website: Events — CRISP (catskillinvasives.com)

Kids Fun Run at Fortin Park
2024-09-07 08:30 - 09:30 | Fortin Park, 101 Youngs Road, Oneonta, NY, 13861, United States
OWL is teaming up with the Oneonta High School Cross Country Team to present a Kids Fun Run at the Dave “Flash” Forbes Cross Country Invitational in Fortin Park. Come for the Fun Run and stick around to cheer on our amazing OHS athletes!
100m race: Open to children age 3 – second grade400m race: Open to children in grades 3-6
The 100m begins at 9:00 immediately followed by the 400m race.
Check-in begins at 8:30.
Cost: $5

Butternut Valley Gravel Grinder
2024-09-07 | 4021 NY-51, Garrattsville, NY 13342, 4021 NY-51, Garrattsville,, NY, 13342
The 2024 Butternut Valley Gravel Grinder will feature a new route, great food and beer. Come meet Alessandro Ballan, world champ and Tour of Flanders winner. Register for either the 45 mile tough scenic loop or the 10 mile flatter route at bikereg.com.
All participants will be entered to win a custom Rock Lobster frame. Total event registration limit is 350.

This is not a race; more like a cycling challenge.

Follow Butternut Valley Gravel Grinder on Instagram

Rothenberger 10K, 5K and Fun Run
2024-08-31 08:00 - 13:00 | Neahwa Park, Bertus Lauren Drive, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States
The Rothenberger Road to Recovery Run is in memory of Lucas Rothenberger, for those who have lost a loved one to substance use disorder, and to provide knowledge and education on the reality of recovery. This run encompasses prevention, treatment, and recovery through a collaboration of FOR-DO, the Rothensbergers, and the community. There will be a 1K Fun Run, 5K Color Run/Walk, and 10K Race. Bring the family, the kids can play in Neahwa Park, participate in the 1K Color Walk/Run or just hang out and listen to music. This year we will be doing a hybrid event and have a virtual component to accommodate all individuals at their own comfort level.
Online registration will remain open until Friday, August 30th at 9am. Day of registration will be held from 7:30am-8:30am in Neahwa Park on Saturday, August 31st. Packet Pickup will take place on the day of the race. The first 200 participants to register will receive a t-shirt and bracelet.

Pre-Registration Prices:
1K Fun Run/Walk: $20.00
5K Run/Walk: $25.00
10K Run: $30.00
Day Of Prices:
1K Fun Run/Walk: $25.00
5K Run/Walk: $30.00
10K Run: $35.00

Family Nature Walk with OCCA
2024-08-23 13:00 - 15:00 | Parslow Road Conservation Area, 127 Parslow Road, Oaksville, NY, 13337, United States
Embrace the opportunity to connect with nature with OCCA on a journey around the Parslow Road Conservation area on Friday, August 23. Take the time to unwind and discover the natural surroundings. Our focus will be on recognizing local flora and fauna as we explore the various habitats.
Free. Please sign up in advance at occainfo.org

Paddle and Pull on Goodyear Lake
2024-08-10 09:00 - 12:00 | Portlandville Fishing Access Site, Route 28, Portlandville, NY, 13834, United States
Join OCCA for a morning of pulling invasive water chestnuts from Goodyear Lake! Meet at the New York State Fishing Access Site at Portlandville. Bring your own watercraft, or reserve a space in an OCCA canoe.
If you’ve never seen water chestnut, don’t worry—we’ll show you what to look for and how to remove it. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Please register at occainfo.org (it’s free) and be sure to let us know if you need space in a canoe.

Otsego Lake Assn. Annual Gathering (open to public)
2024-08-10 08:30 - 10:45 | Otsego Sailing Club, 5992 NY-80, Cooperstown, New York, 13326
Spend a couple of your Saturday morning hours learning what’s happening in and around OTSEGO LAKE.
The gathering is FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
Come at 8:30 for coffee and donuts!
Presentations are scheduled from 9:00am until 10:45am

Special guest: Dr. Florian B. Reyda, Director, SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station
Topic: Otsego Lake and the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station
Plus other scientific updates including Poster Presentations by SUNY Biological Field Station interns.

There will be a silent auction and OLA apparel sale.

Where: Otsego Sailing Club —in their beautiful new open air pavilion
5992 NY-80, Cooperstown, NY

The mission of the Otsego Lake Association is to educate, advocate, and actively participate in protecting the health, beauty, and well being of Otsego Lake by facilitating the implementation of the Otsego Lake Watershed Management Plan

Contact Info: Otsego Lake Association website: https://www.otsegolakeassociation.org
