Rice Creek's naturalists will be your guides as you explore the forests, fields, wetlands, and waterways of Rice Creek Field Station, a 350-acre wildlife preserve dedicated to supporting research and education.

These free walks are open to the general public and suitable for all ages. Walks are 1 mile or less over gentle to moderate terrain on one of Rice Creek's four trails, and approximately 1 hour in length. Adult- and youth-sized snowshoes (for ages 3+) are available in winter, trail conditions permitting. If snow is insufficient, we will go on a boot walk. Sturdy snow- or hiking boots should be worn in winter regardless.

Program details

During the walk, a naturalist will discuss the cultural and ecological history of Rice Creek from its early days as working farmland to today. Additionally, the naturalist will identify and interpret discoveries such as animal sightings, plant blooms, seasonal changes, and more. Participants are encouraged to keep their eyes open for discoveries and ask questions along the way. Photography, journaling, and sketching are all welcome activities during the walk.

The topic, duration, and terrain level can all be customized to the group's needs and interests. Families with young children are encouraged to join -- our naturalists, current and retired school teachers, are skilled at engaging and inspiring young people in nature. 

What to wear & FAQs

Participants should come dressed for the weather and tick prevention. Boots are advisable as trails may be muddy, especially during late fall, winter, and spring. An adult must accompany children under 17 years of age. For questions, please reach out to the Rice Creek staff at rcfs@oswego.edu or 315.312.6677.

Free student transportation

Since the Centro Green Route Bus does not run on Saturdays, Rice Creek offers a van shuttle during the fall and spring semesters. Please call 315.312.6677 between 9:15 and 10:15 am on Saturdays to request a pick up. Alternatively, book your ride in advance by emailing rcdesk@oswego.edu by 3 p.m. on the Thursday before the program. Please include your full name and phone number. Please note that transportation is not available on the following Saturdays as our van is unavailable: 2/21, 3/7, 4/18, and 4/25.

Accessibility statement

We welcome people of all abilities to Rice Creek Field Station. Rice Creek's main building and parking areas are ADA accessible. The Purple Trail, scheduled to open in April 2026, is built to comply with U.S. Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines. 

Although we strive to create inclusive programs, not all programs will be accessible to all individuals. Please reach out to us at rcfs@oswego.edu or (315) 312-6677 to inquire about accommodations. We would be happy to work with you.