Constitution Marsh Center & Sanctuary

Our interpretive canoe programs focus on the nearshore environments of the tidal Hudson River, particularly the natural history of Constitution Marsh and the surrounding Hudson Highlands. An expert Audubon naturalist leads you through winding channels lined with cattails and other marsh plants, searching for hidden wildlife. Canoeists can enjoy the physical activity and beautiful scenery while learning about these fascinating habitats.

Reservations are required for all canoe trips, and there is a fee of $25 for adults; $20 for seniors, students, and Audubon members; and $15 per child ages 7-15. (Children under age 7 are not permitted on our canoe trips). We provide the canoes, paddles, and life jackets and a safety lesson precedes the trip. At least one adult with paddling experienced must accompany each canoe. Trips are tide and weather dependent, and normally last between two and three hours.

If you are planning a kayak or canoe trip through the marsh on your own, public water access is provided at the Foundry Dock Park in Cold Spring, and not at the Audubon Center.

Consult the Hudson River Water Trail Guide for more information.

Please remember to obey the following rules during your visit to help us protect this beautiful place:

Never cross over the railroad tracks and be aware of the tide stage at all times. Please do not enter the marsh at or near low tide.
No motors of any kind are allowed in the marsh.
There is no hunting, fishing, plant-picking or other collecting of any kind. Constitution Marsh is a wildlife sanctuary and all plant and animal life is protected by State and Federal Law.
Please travel through the marsh slowly and quietly to increase your chances of seeing wildlife and to minimize disturbances to animals and other visitors.
Stay to the main channel and avoid narrow or dead-end channels to limit disturbance to wildlife. To download a map of the marsh, click here. (384k)
Do not attempt to walk in the marsh. The vegetation is very fragile and easily crushed.
To avoid trespassing, please do not land anywhere along the wooded shoreline, unless there is an emergency.
Signs will clearly post dates when the marsh will be closed to all visitors at certain times of the year. Please respect our efforts to protect migratory wildlife.