Hoots and Hops

Saturday, October 3rd, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Join us for a fun and feathered outdoor evening at the Refuge! Guests will enjoy beer tastings with local breweries while mingling with live owls and birds of prey. Then settle in for an engaging slideshow presentation by one of our educators, diving into the fascinating world of owls. It’s the perfect blend of brews, birds, and learning. Land & Sea Smokehouse will provide light bites to pair with your tastings. The first 50 registrants receive a complimentary tasting glass. $75 per person.

Bats at Dusk – Guided Hike

Thursday, October 8th, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Join us for a fascinating evening sunset hike all about bats! Discover the incredible anatomy and physical adaptations that make bats such important animals to our ecosystem. On this 1.5 mile hike, we’ll look for Long Island’s species of bats, visit bat houses on the trails, and discuss the challenges bats are currently facing and what you can do to help protect them. $10 per person, $5 for QWR 2026 members.

Autumn Nature Journaling Workshop

Sunday, October 11th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 

This watercolor nature journaling program on the Refuge trails encourages participants to slow down, observe nature, and record their experiences through simple watercolor techniques and light sketching. Led by Jennifer Lucas of Beach Oak Designs, the workshop blends art, observation, and mindfulness along with information on flora and fauna from a QWR Educator. Participants will leave with a small notebook, a completed nature journaling page, a handout and the skills to continue their practice independently. No prior art experience is required, all materials provided. This is a program for adults and teens 14+. $25 per person.

Fall Foliage Paddle Tour on Old Ice Pond

Wednesday, October 14th & Thursday, October 15th, 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Explore Old Ice Pond by kayak during this guided paddle tour. Along the way, you’ll learn about the natural history of the area, observe local flora and fauna, and paddle through the beautiful colors of autumn as they reflect across the water. Enjoy a peaceful perspective of the Refuge as the changing leaves create a vibrant backdrop around the pond. This program is for adults and teens ages 12 and up (participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult while paddling). Single kayaks and a limited number of double kayaks are available, please reserve your spot in advance. $30 per person.

Fall Foliage Pine Barrens Hike

Saturday, October 17th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Explore the unique beauty of the Long Island Pine Barrens on a family-friendly hike to North Pond (1.5 miles). Along the way, we’ll discover the plants and animals that call this special ecosystem home and talk all about the changes happening in the forest during the fall season. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, uncover some of the secrets of the forest, and enjoy a fun morning outdoors together. This hike is perfect for families and adults looking to explore, learn, and connect with nature! $10 per adult, $5 for children ages 10 & under.

Safari on the Enchanted Forest Trail

*Saturday, October 24th and *Sunday, October 25th (Raindate: October 31st )

 Please pre-schedule an arrival time between 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM

The Enchanted Forest is back but with a safari twist! Take a whimsical and educational walk through our forest trail as you learn about habitats, migration, and animals along the way. Costumes are encouraged for all ages! Before or after your walk, enjoy complimentary themed crafts and games, face painting, a bounce house, and more. Refreshments and concessions will be available for purchase. Please pre-purchase your tickets on our website and select an arrival time. For families with children ages 2 to 10 years old, accompanied by an adult. This event is stroller friendly. $15 per person.