Calendar of Events

Come Out to Play, Discover, Learn!

RENT A NATURALIST
Generally curious about our preserve, its history, our plants, and the many animals that live on the preserve? Curious about the trees you've seen on your many hikes on the property? Our naturalist can answer those questions and more when you Rent a Naturalist for a one hour guided nature walk at Schiff Nature Preserve. Fees are $10 per person for a minimum of 5 people and a maximum of 20. Payment in full is required to confirm the reservation. Contact us at to arrange a mutually agreed upon time and date for your guided nature walk.

Pictures of Events at Schiff
July 1, 2024 (Monday) to July 31, 2024 (Wednesday)
Schiff's 40th Anniversary Scavenger Hunt
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road, Mendham, 07945

Schiff Natural Land's Trust is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year! For the month of July, get outside and explore Schiff Nature Preserve's many unique features. To participate, please email programsandspecialevents@schiffnaturepreserve.org for a copy of the scavenger hunt, or visit us on social media to view picture locations. To win a prize, hike to Schiff locations featured in the "Schiff's 40th Anniversary Photo Scavenger Hunt" document (locations can be found in any order), take a picture of yourself at the site once you have located it, and then post it on Instagram. Be sure to tag Schiff Nature Preserve! When you have posted 10 of the 20 features, email programsandspecialevents@schiffnaturepreserve.org to let us know! You can collect your prize at the Nature Center, please call ahead to ensure a staff member is available to greet you. If you prefer not to post on social media, email your photos to the same email address above. Find all 20 and you win a Super Prize! Good luck and have fun on the trails!
Contact: 973-543-6004
July 27, 2024 (Saturday) 9:00-11:00
Volunteer Work Session
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road (339 Schiff Drive), Mendham, 07945

The Conservation and Stewardship Committee welcomes your involvement in helping to maintain Schiff's trails, open space, and buildings. Giving back to the local nature preserve that you enjoy on a regular basis can be very satisfying... Each work session provides community members a 2 hour opportunity to work side by side with Schiff staff and Board members in a variety of hands-on land stewardship projects. Depending on the season, we may be clearing trails, removing invasive species, planting native trees and shrubs, conducting building repairs, restoring fences and bridges, or raking out the Native Garden. Volunteers (16 and under with a parent) are encouraged to dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, bring sunscreen and bug spray as appropriate, and bring a beverage and snack in a backpack for hands free walking. Meet us at the Nature Center and bring garden or work gloves. Tools provided by Schiff. Volunteers are asked to sign a waiver, provide photo release, and may bring and use their own tools if they prefer. Please pre-register online so we can plan projects accordingly.
Contact: 973-543-6004
July 28, 2024 (Sunday) 4:00 - 6:00 pm
Music in the Woods- The Outcrops
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road (Use 351 Pleasant Valley Rd in Your GPS), Mendham, 07945

From the woods of Northern New Jersey, The Outcrops play music with heart. They have dug their roots into rock'n'roll, blues, funk, R&B, old country, and jazz. Their original music stems from the same soulful soil. Cassidy Rain (vocals/guitar) and Bryan Schroeder (lead guitar) started the band in 2016 with a passion for rock'n'roll and blues music from their love of bands such as the Allman Brothers, the Grateful Dead, and blues artists such as B.B King and Buddy Guy. The rhythm section of the band includes Jason Casanovas on bass and Max Adler on drums. Both Max and Jason bring a funk and soul feel that melds beautifully with Cassidy and Bryan creating the perfect band tag: Rock & Roll, Blues & Soul. They hope to enliven every audience and shed a little sunlight on such timeless music.

These concerts are held in a large outdoor Amphitheatre setting that requires guests to arrive by 3:30 pm to allow for the 30-minute (gravel and grass trail with incline) walk up to the venue. Guests may BYOB, snacks, and pillows for your comfort. Seating capacity and parking are limited, so carpooling is suggested. Advance ticket purchases are required. Current Member fee is $20. Schiff (new and renew) membership and MITW ticket bundle pricing is $65. Non- member fee is $25. Ticket proceeds directly support Schiff and the musicians. Outdoor events occur shy of rain or thunderstorms. Refunds will be processed automatically in the event of a cancellation.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 07/28/24
August 6, 2024 (Tuesday) 10:00-11:00
Critter Cove Story Time
Schiff Nature Preserve (339 Schiff Drive)
, Mendham, 07945

Join us for outdoor story time & discovery! We will meet at the Nature Center then head up the trail to Critter Cove to celebrate nature! This program is all weather event & held entirely outside, with exception of thunderstorms or high wind warnings. This program is for our youngest budding stewards ages 3-5(supervision by parent/guardian required throughout the programs entirety). Dress in weather appropriate clothes and shoes. Advance registration will ensure you receive weather update 24 hours in advance. Member fee is $8/person. Non member fee $12/per person.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 08/05/24
August 11, 2024 (Sunday) 9:00-11:00
Sunday Morning Fitness Hike
McVickers Preserve
, Mendham, 07945

Join us for a brisk 5- mile hike over varied terrain across Schiff Nature Preserve. Hikers meet at McVickers Brook parking lot at (next door to) 239 Pleasant Valley Road, Mendham. Vaccinated dogs on leash are welcome. This hike is intented for adults only, but small children may accompany in backpacks. Free to members. Non- member fee is $12. Advance registration and payment is required 24 hours in advance.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 08/11/24
August 11, 2024 (Sunday) 4:00 - 6:00 pm
Music in the Woods- 40th Anniversary with Cold Hill
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road (Use 351 Pleasant Valley Rd in Your GPS), Mendham, 07945

Schiff's 40th Anniversary Concert with Mendham's Cold Hill! Cold Hill is a big sound, seven-piece, original Rock and Roll Band. With Rock as their backbone, you will hear influences of other musical styles breaking through (Bluegrass, Funk, Reggae, Heavy Rock, and Jam Band). This supergroup is pulling musicians from Northern NJ's leading tribute bands, including This Old Engine and The Mountain Jam Band.

These concerts are held in a large outdoor Amphitheatre setting that requires guests to arrive by 3:30 pm to allow for the 30-minute (gravel and grass trail with incline) walk up to the venue. Guests may BYOB, snacks, and pillows for your comfort. Seating capacity and parking are limited, so carpooling is suggested. Advance ticket purchases are required. Current Member fee is $20. Schiff (new and renew) membership and MITW ticket bundle pricing is $65. Non- member fee is $25. Ticket proceeds directly support Schiff and the musicians. Outdoor events occur shy of rain or thunderstorms. Refunds will be processed automatically in the event of a cancellation.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 08/10/24
August 16, 2024 (Friday) 7:00-8:15 PM
Singing Bowl Meditation
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road (339 Schiff Drive), Mendham, 07945

Please join us for a sound healing meditation with exquisite Himalayan Singing bowls, with galactic chimes, Koshi chimes, gentle gong, drum and more. Nourish your Body, Mind and Soul! Several protocols will be played to promote peace, relaxation, stress reduction, improved intuition and clarity of thought. Improving quality of sleep, raising our vibration, improving our relationships, aligning our energetic bodies and bringing more joy into our lives. Surrender into a bath of divine healing sound! Experience the vibration of the Himalayan Bowls on the body! Allow the sound to transport you into a tranquil and heavenly state of mind, body and soul! Bring all the props you need to either lay down or sit comfortably. We have chairs for those of you who prefer to sit. Wear comfortable clothes avoiding exposed buttons or zippers. The allowable number of attendees is 10 to ensure everyone is comfortable. Member fee is $40. Non- member fee is $45. Advance registration and payment is required.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 08/15/24
August 25, 2024 (Sunday) 9:00-11:00
Volunteer Work Session
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road, Mendham, 07945

The Conservation and Stewardship Committee welcomes your involvement in helping to maintain Schiff's trails, open space, and buildings. Giving back to the local nature preserve that you enjoy on a regular basis can be very satisfying... Each work session provides community members a 2 hour opportunity to work side by side with Schiff staff and Board members in a variety of hands-on land stewardship projects. Depending on the season, we may be clearing trails, removing invasive species, planting native trees and shrubs, conducting building repairs, restoring fences and bridges, or raking out the Native Garden. Volunteers (16 and under with a parent) are encouraged to dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, bring sunscreen and bug spray as appropriate, and bring a beverage and snack in a backpack for hands free walking. Meet us at the Nature Center and bring garden or work gloves. Tools provided by Schiff. Volunteers are asked to sign a waiver, provide photo release, and may bring and use their own tools if they prefer. Please pre-register online so we can plan projects accordingly.
Contact: 973-543-6004
September 3, 2024 (Tuesday) 10:00-11:00
Critter Cove Story Time
Schiff Nature Preserve (339 Schiff Drive)
339 Pleasant Valley Road, Mendham, 07945

Join us for outdoor story time & discovery! We will meet at the Nature Center then head up the trail to Critter Cove to celebrate nature! This program is all weather event & held entirely outside, with exception of thunderstorms or high wind warnings. This program is for our youngest budding stewards ages 3-5(supervision by parent/gaurdian required throughout the programs entirety). Dress in weather appropriate clothes and shoes. Advance registration will ensure you receive weather update 24 hours in advance. Member fee is $8/person. Non member fee $12/per person.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 09/02/24
September 8, 2024 (Sunday) 9:00-11:00
Sunday Morning Fitness Hike
McVickers Preserve
, Mendham, 07945

Join us for a brisk 5- mile hike over varied terrain across Schiff Nature Preserve. Hikers meet at McVickers Brook parking lot at (next door to) 239 Pleasant Valley Road, Mendham. Vaccinated dogs on leash are welcome. This hike is intented for adults only, but small children mat accompany in backpacks. Free to members. Non- member fee is $12. This program is an all weather event with the exception of severe weather. Advance registration and payment is required 24 hours in advance.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 09/08/24
September 8, 2024 (Sunday) 4:00 - 6:00 pm
Music in the Woods- Mountain Jam
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road (Use 351 Pleasant Valley Rd in Your GPS), Mendham, 07945

The Mountain Jam Band is an Allman Brothers tribute band comprised of some of the most talented musicians in the tri-state area. MJB has become known for recreating the live Allman Brothers experience through signature guitar licks mixed with extended improvisational jams.

These concerts are held in a large outdoor Amphitheatre setting that requires guests to arrive by 3:30 pm to allow for the 30-minute (gravel and grass trail with incline) walk up to the venue. Guests may BYOB, snacks, and pillows for your comfort. Seating capacity and parking are limited, so carpooling is suggested. Advance ticket purchases are required. Current Member fee is $20. Schiff (new and renew) membership and MITW ticket bundle pricing is $65. Non- member fee is $25. Ticket proceeds directly support Schiff and the musicians. Outdoor events occur shy of rain or thunderstorms. Refunds will be processed automatically in the event of a cancellation.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 09/07/24
September 17, 2024 (Tuesday) 7:00-8:30
Full Moon Hike
Schiff Nature Preserve (339 Schiff Drive)
339 Pleasant Valley Road, Mendham, 07945

Night hikes provide us with an all together magical experience. Schiff's Full Moon Hikes are an excellent opportunity to see our beautiful landscape by the light of the moon. Discover the magic of hiking at night while the moon is at its fullest, when even the most familiar trails reveal sights and sounds, they only share with the cool, quiet night. This 2 mile, 1 ½ hour hike is perfect for all experience levels, but best for guests ages 8 and above (parent/guardian supervision required throughout the programs entirety). Guests should expect to walk on uneven terrain. Guests are advised to wear hiking boots, weather appropriate attire, and bring headlamps to have on hand. Member fee is $12 per person. Non-member fee is $18 per person. Please, no pets are permitted. These walks are very popular, so early, advance registration and payment are required to confirm your place and receive any additional information in advance of the program.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 09/17/24
September 17, 2024 (Tuesday) 7:00-8:30
Environmental Book Club
Online
, ,

Schiff's Environmental Book Club is FREE for members. Meet other Schiff members eight times per year on Zoom for a friendly gathering to discuss an environmentally focused book covering various aspects of the natural world from wildlife to Climate to adventure and beyond. The discussions are led by members of the group. New attendees are always welcome to the book club. Want to try it for the first time to see if you like it? Just register in advance online and you will be sent a zoom link to attend the first club meeting. Want to become a member of Schiff AND attend the book club regularly? Visit Schiff's website to become a member, register in advance online, and you will be sent the Zoom link to attend each session. September's book to be discussed at the Environmental Book Club is Great Displacement: Climate Change and the Next American Migration by Jake Bittle.
Contact: 973-543-6004
September 20, 2024 (Friday) 7:00-8:15 PM
Singing Bowl Meditation
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road (339 Schiff Drive), Mendham, 07945

Please join us for a sound healing meditation with exquisite Himalayan Singing bowls, with galactic chimes, Koshi chimes, gentle gong, drum and more. Nourish your Body, Mind and Soul! Several protocols will be played to promote peace, relaxation, stress reduction, improved intuition and clarity of thought. Improving quality of sleep, raising our vibration, improving our relationships, aligning our energetic bodies and bringing more joy into our lives. Surrender into a bath of divine healing sound! Experience the vibration of the Himalayan Bowls on the body! Allow the sound to transport you into a tranquil and heavenly state of mind, body and soul! Bring all the props you need to either lay down or sit comfortably. We have chairs for those of you who prefer to sit. Wear comfortable clothes avoiding exposed buttons or zippers. The allowable number of attendees is 10 to ensure everyone is comfortable. Member fee is $40. Non- member fee is $45. Advance registration and payment is required.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 09/19/24
September 28, 2024 (Saturday) 9:00-11:00
Volunteer Work Session
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road (339 Schiff Drive), Mendham, 07945

The Conservation and Stewardship Committee welcomes your involvement in helping to maintain Schiff's trails, open space, and buildings. Giving back to the local nature preserve that you enjoy on a regular basis can be very satisfying... Each work session provides community members a 2 hour opportunity to work side by side with Schiff staff and Board members in a variety of hands-on land stewardship projects. Depending on the season, we may be clearing trails, removing invasive species, planting native trees and shrubs, conducting building repairs, restoring fences and bridges, or raking out the Native Garden. Volunteers (16 and under with a parent) are encouraged to dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, bring sunscreen and bug spray as appropriate, and bring a beverage and snack in a backpack for hands free walking. Meet us at the Nature Center and bring garden or work gloves. Tools provided by Schiff. Volunteers are asked to sign a waiver, provide photo release, and may bring and use their own tools if they prefer. Please pre-register online so we can plan projects accordingly.
Contact: 973-543-6004
October 6, 2024 (Sunday) 4:00 - 6:00 pm
Music in the Woods- Chuck Woods- Indoors @the Nature Center
Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Road (Use 351 Pleasant Valley Rd in Your GPS), Mendham, 07945

Chuck Wood is a multi-instrumentalist and composer from Northwest New Jersey with more than 45 years of experience in music. He has recorded and toured the U.S, with his friend Arjun Alan Bruggeman (Krishna Das) in their world percussion band known as Ghandharva. He has also appeared live or recorded with Neal Casal, Michael Franti, David Darling, John Ginty and others. The instruments he plays are West African in nature, including the djembe, doun doun, and shekeree; some are rooted in South American culture such as the congas and berimbau. Chuck has studied these various instruments with Baba Olatunji, M'Beba Bangoura, Titos Sompa, and more. Recently, he has begun recording and performing on the electric guitar playing the instrument in his own unique style. Whether performing solo or with the band, Chuck loves the art of music and rhythm, and continues to explore its depths through live performance and recording.

This concert will be held in the Nature Center, allowing only for a max of 40 guests in a mix of seated and standing viewing/listening. Seating is provided, but guests may BYOB, snacks, and pillows for your comfort. Seating capacity and parking are limited, so carpooling is suggested. Advance ticket purchases are required. Current Member fee is $20. Schiff (new and renew) membership and MITW ticket bundle pricing is $65. Non- member fee is $25. Ticket proceeds directly support Schiff and the musicians. Refunds will be processed automatically in the event of a cancellation.
Contact: 973-543-6004
- Register by 10/05/24