Ironsides Island

Ironsides Island is a river island in Jefferson County that rises steeply from the St. Lawrence River with rocky cliffs and dense white pine forest. The island covers approximately 30 acres and features dramatic elevation changes across its landscape.

The island was transferred to The Nature Conservancy in the 1960s by a private owner committed to long-term protection and conservation. This act of stewardship helped preserve the landscape during a period of development pressures in the Thousand Islands region.

The island's name reflects the maritime heritage of the St. Lawrence River region and its connection to local history. Today it serves as a protected natural area managed by a conservation organization, showing how private stewardship sustains important habitats.

Landing on the island requires advance permission from The Nature Conservancy due to strict protection of the site. Viewing from boats passing through the river provides excellent sightlines of the cliffs and forest without needing to set foot on shore.

Each April around one thousand great blue herons arrive to nest on the island, forming one of the largest breeding colonies in the region. This seasonal event makes the island a prime destination for birdwatchers who can observe the return from boats on the river.