2025 On the Canals Program at Hudson Crossing Park

Hudson Crossing Park is thrilled to once again offer free programs on the Champlain Canal thanks to the New York State Canal Corporation’s On the Canals Program. These excursions offer participants the opportunity to experience just some of the adventures that await them along the New York Canal System at absolutely no cost.

All of our On the Canals excursions are designed to be inclusive—welcoming individuals of all abilities and disabilities. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to explore, connect with nature, and enjoy the journey.

For more details, please check out the Accessibility tab on our website. If you have any specific questions or needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Inclusion Point of Contact at wdelacruz@hudsoncrossingpark.org. We’re here to help make your experience a great one!

Over an image of a waterfall are the words "Hikes and History Cruises," and the HCP, OTC, and Mohawk Maiden Cruises logos
Over a picture of a full moon are the words "Twilight on the Trails," and the HCP and On the Canals logos.
Over an image of a group of kids by the river are the words "Kids on the Canals," and the HCP and On the Canals logos.
Over an image of pink flowers are the words "Cultivating Creatively," and the HCP and On the Canals logos.
 

HIKES & HISTORY CRUISES

Take a scenic ride through Champlain Canal Lock C5 on a comfortable pontoon boat, then explore Hudson Crossing Park on foot!

This excursion offers the best of both worlds—local history and STEM learning on the water, paired with a guided nature hike focused on the area's unique ecology and environmental features.

Participants will be split into two groups of 6: one group will begin with the hike while the other enjoys the boat ride, then meet at Hudson Crossing Park’s “Eagle Point” to switch activities.

The on-land portion of the excursion is just over ¾ mile, mostly flat, and follows a mowed grass trail. The route taken can be adjusted to fit the accessibility needs of the group.

Best suited for ages 12 and up. All participants must be able to complete the hiking portion. Group size is limited to 12 per excursion.

 

TWILIGHT ON THE TRAILS

Experience Hudson Crossing Park in a whole new light—moonlight! This inclusive, family-friendly program takes place on or near the full moon each month, giving participants the rare chance to explore the park after dark and discover some of its quieter, more elusive residents: crepuscular animals.

Crepuscular creatures—like deer, foxes, raccoons, rabbits, bats, and even fireflies—are most active at dawn and dusk, when the world is a little quieter. Under the glow of the full moon, they’re even more likely to be out and about, using the extra light to hunt, hide, and explore.

Participants will use all their senses to search for signs of wildlife—looking for movement, listening for calls, and learning how these animals thrive in the twilight hours.

Group size limited to 20 per excursion.

 

KIDS ON THE CANALS

These monthly hands-on programs invite kids and their families to explore the Champlain Canal through science, history, and nature-based adventures. Each month features a new theme—from building model locks and crafting balloon-powered boats to exploring the canal’s past and spotting wildlife along the trail.

Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, Kids On the Canals empowers kids of all abilities to connect with this incredible local resource through STEM challenges, guided hikes, and hands-on crafts.

Group size is limited to 16 kids per excursion. They must be accompanied by an adult (not included in the group number). These programs are best suited for kids aged 6-12, unless otherwise noted.

 

CULTIVATING CREATIVELY

These inclusive monthly workshops invite participants to explore the beauty and benefits of gardening with native plants—while getting creative along the way! After touring Hudson Crossing Park’s vibrant pollinator gardens, participants will use foraged materials to create a nature-based art project inspired by the season’s theme.

Each session includes hands-on learning about planting, maintaining, and restoring native species, plus how to safely manage invasive plants like bittersweet and knotweed.

Group size is limited to 10 per excursion.