Out of the Ashes

I was there that morning. On the first engine to arrive. The deep black smoke rolled through the cold March morning air. The flame’s fingers wrapped around the building. The paint bubbling off of the metal. No time for personal emotions as there was a job to do. Even when you do everything right, sometimes you lose everything. That was what happened in March of 2010. All the animals were saved but what was left was a pile of twisted metal and debris. A shell of what used to be. About the time the press finally left and the hoses were rolled up I remember taking a few minutes to look around and reminisce. The memories of coming here when I was young came to me. My parents and grandparents used to take us out here to cross country ski. For some reason I still remember warming my frozen toes while adding packets of hot chocolate mix to steaming hot water. Even as a goofy teenager I remembered driving out here with my sister to slide and snowboard down the old ski hill. But it was gone. Our beloved Nature Center on Barnhart island was gone.

After the fire a temporary building was set up to house the nature center. A glorified trailer sat there to house The Friends of the Nature Center. It was far from perfect but it did its job. Every time I went in there I was always greeted with a smile and thank you for coming.

But we all knew it just wasn’t the same. The trails were there and enjoyed by all but it just wasn’t the same experience.

In 2015 the New York Power Authority announced it had approved a $7.6 million contract to build a new nature center at Robert Moses State Park. I, as many in the area, were excited to hear the news that a new building was being funded and couldn’t wait to see what NYPA was building for us. Several times I drove out to the area to see the progress of the new building. Many people would go out to the park to catch a glimpse of the new building going up.

In 2017 I finally got my chance to see the finished project. I was in awe of what sat before me. It was way more than I could have imagined.

Today the nature center has way more meaning to me than I could have ever imagined when I was young. Between the exhibits and trail system it makes a great getaway just minutes from my home. The 9,400 square foot building is absolutely beautiful. As soon as you pull in the parking lot you are greeted with a building design that mixes raw earth and modern engineering. Entering the front doors you are welcomed with a beautiful outdoor landscape inside. The large exhibit has many native fish swimming around, local birds hanging from the ceiling and the elusive coyote perched high on the rocks looking over everyone as you explore. Turtles sit peacefully sunning themselves on the warm rocks.

As you wander around the building you will find many exhibits. Interactive as well as a beautiful display of North Country wildlife wait for you to discover. This is a great way to spend a bone chilling winter day or even a chance to get out of the sun on a hot August afternoon. Adults and children alike can enjoy perusing this place and you just might even learn something new, I know I always do.

When you are ready to explore the great outdoors yourself there is plenty of opportunity here. They have over 6 miles of well marked trails to discover.

During the warmer seasons these trails lead you through many different landscapes. You will be greeted with the sounds of songbirds all around. Wildlife of all kinds scamper through the trees and along the ground. There are many benches along the way to take in the beauty. Views of the stunning St. Lawrence River will greet you in many locations. They have a viewing blind near one of their wetlands that you can hide behind and watch the beavers and birds work the day away. Behind the nature center there are outdoor games and activities for everyone to enjoy.

During the winter months this place turns into a hot-spot for winter activities. The trails are beautifully groomed for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

You can just hop out of your car and hit the trails. If you do not own your own equipment, no problem as the center offers skis and snowshoes for you to borrow at no cost.

You just go inside and one of the very friendly and knowledgeable staff members will get you fitted and on your way. This is a great option if you want to try these sports for the first time or you just don’t want more stuff clogging up your home. I recommend keeping an eye out on their Facebook page for trail conditions and updates.

If you are looking to learn more about the North Country outdoors they offer all sorts of classes and displays throughout the year. Currently they are offering ski lessons for beginners and intermediate skill levels. They have a lovely outdoor classroom where they offer classes on different topics throughout the year. They hold many different kid friendly events that are designed to get our youth outdoors and thinking about our natural environment.

I personally try to get out on the trails once a week during the winter months. The brisk fresh air and the sound of my snowshoes creaking along my 3 mile loop resets my mind and body. Even when the parking lot is full you still have plenty of space to yourself on the trails. Last weekend I stepped out of my comfort zone and decided to join their outdoor photography group. I was a bit nervous as I have very little knowledge of how to use my camera but they welcomed me with open arms. I spent the morning meeting new people as we photographed many different birds at the bird feeders.

We sat around the fireplace and talked about different cameras and locations they like to meet up and take photos.

By the time I left I felt like I’d known these folks for years. What has grown from the ashes has blossomed into an epic nature lover's paradise.

About the location:

The Nicandri Nature Center is located on Barnhart Island in Massena NY. It is part of the Robert Moses State Park.

Take State Highway 131 North of the St. Lawrence Center Mall. You will travel under the Eisenhower Lock and follow the signs. During this time of year you will find many people driving slowly around the park as it is a great place to watch the deer and many other wildlife species. Make sure to set aside a few hours to enjoy the whole experience the first time you go. Between the indoor exhibits and touring the trails you will not want to rush. Set aside some time during each season to visit because as the seasons change so does the experience. Make sure to like them on Facebook and check out their website so you can keep up to date with all the fun activities they are offering. This is truly a wonderful Northern NY Adventure you can’t miss.

Aaron Hardy

Northern NY Adventures