Playful graphic art of blue bus driving away from Albany skyline towards nature scene, cute yellow and purple butterflies, multi shaded green grasses, and a teal colored stream.

Nature Bus

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‍Connecting people to nature one stop at a time!
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Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy and CDTA have partnered to connect Albany City residents to nature. This free bus service brings you to popular outdoor locations where you can enjoy free programming on most weekends. Take a guided walk, try out bird identification, or simply get to know nature... there’s so much to do!

2025 service runs Saturday, May 24 through Saturday, October 4.

CDTA BUS SCHEDULES:
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Yellow Warbler Route: May 24, June 7, 21, July 5, 19, August 2, 16, 30, and September 13, 27

Green Beaver Route: May 31, June 14, 28, July 12, 26, August 9, 23, September 6, 20, October 4

NYSDEC’s Five Rivers Environmental Education Center
Visitor center with interactive exhibits, guided nature programs, 10 miles of trails, no dogs.

‍Albany Pine Bush Preserve’s Six Mile Waterworks
‍Fishing docks, picnic tables and grills, a playground, bathrooms, and trails.

John Boyd Thacher State Park
Waterfalls, trails, and impressive views of the Hudson Valley near the interactive Visitor Center.

‍Tivoli Lake Preserve and Farm
‍1.3-mile trail; kiosks with map at both entrances. Leashed dogs welcome. Do not disturb animals.

Fisher Trail at Five Rivers (in partnership with MHLC)
‍Accessible trail, connects to Five Rivers’ larger trail system, no dogs.

Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail
9.8-mile paved, shared-use path (non-motorized) from Albany’s South End to Voorheesville.
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Albany Nature Bus Programs

To see the complete Five Rivers Public Programs & Events Schedule, visit their website.

SPECIAL PROMOTION: Nature Bus riders can use the promo code "NATURE BUS" for 20% off all activities at WildPlay Thacher!

LAST DAY OF SERVICE THIS YEAR!‍

Saturday, October 4
Five Rivers Environmental Education Center
NY Wildlife Day Activities:
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12:30–1:30 PM
Lunchtime Learning—Living Responsibly with Wildlife
‍Meet DEC Wildlife Biologist Sophia Brown who will share insights about living responsibly with wildlife and the best practices for preventing and addressing common nuisance wildlife concerns. She will discuss the biology and behavior of black bears, coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, and other common New York wildlife. Bring your own lunch to enjoy during the presentation.
No registration required.

10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Tick Talk
‍Ticks may be encountered any time of year, but don’t let that stop you from spending time outdoors. Joellen Lampman from Cornell Cooperative Extension will share her expertise on the best ways to protect yourself and your family from ticks, whether in the woods or in your own yard. Indoor presentation followed by questions and answers.
No registration required.

1:30–3:00 PM
Hands-On HabitatWe'll be working in and around the gardens along Nature's Accessible Backyard Trail to improve habitat for wildlife at Five Rivers. Activities may include mulching the gardens, removing invasive plants, and more. Space is limited. Register online.

Albany Nature Bus Sponsors & Donors

Special thanks to the organizations who provide funding in 2025 to ensure this service is free including the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Division of Communication, Education and Engagement, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, Fenimore Asset Management, the Natural Heritage Trust courtesy of the Saratoga Capital District Regional State Parks Commission’s Access for All Campaign, and Fenimore Asset Management.

Schenectady Nature Bus

ECOS: the Environmental Clearinghouse and MHLC teamed up with the CDTA to bring Nature Bus service to Schenectady. Thank you to our donors and volunteers for your involvement in 2023 and 2024.
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‍Schenectady Nature Bus is on pause for the 2025 season.
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