The Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy (MHLC) will host its second annual Trail Tunes free event on Aug. 16 at Bender Melon Farm Preserve in New Scotland, NY.
From 1 to 4 p.m., visitors can follow the preserve’s scenic trails to four performance stations featuring live music and family-friendly activities. The event expands on last year’s debut, which drew more than 200 people from across the Capital Region, while allowing guests to experience the performances and surrounding landscape at their own pace.
Hiking Meets Live Music
Trail Tunes invites guests to experience live music throughout the preserve’s sprawling 175-acre landscape. Participants can explore the scenic trails while discovering four acoustic performance stations featuring local musicians and intimate sets.
Visitors who collect all four station stamps will receive an MHLC vinyl logo sticker. They can also enter a raffle featuring MHLC merchandise, Tacos Diablo gift cards, and a Common Roots Brewing Company gift basket.
Fresh Additions
Trail Tunes returns with new program additions designed to enhance the outdoor experience. Common Roots Brewing Company will provide beer and cider for purchase, while the Hungry Traveler food truck will serve afternoon fare. MHLC will also host a children’s craft table for families attending the event.
Meet the 2026 Artists
This year’s event will showcase four Capital Region artists representing a range of musical styles. The lineup includes psychedelic surf rock, folk, traditional banjo, and genre-blending rock.
- Kimono Dragons deliver dynamic instrumental psychedelic surf rock from Albany. The band combines driving drums, powerful bass lines, and energetic guitars that are guranteed to get you to sway. Their performances move between explosive rock moments and relaxed melodies.
- Laura Leigh blends traditional folk influences with modern songwriting. Her music draws from old-time country and rock traditions. Her performances feature heartfelt lyrics, strong rhythms, and expressive melodies. Additionally, her songs balance sincerity with a distinctive personality.
- Carolyn Shapiro is an old-time banjo player and songwriter from the Southern Adirondacks. Her music combines traditional sounds with personal storytelling. Through powerful vocals and intricate banjo playing, she creates emotional performances that explore human experiences with honesty and vulnerability.
- The Husbands are a seven-member family band formed through the magic of longtime friendships and jam sessions. Their music is a mix of heartland rock, grunge, and folk influences.
Planning Your Visit
Bender Melon Farm Preserve will host Trail Tunes on Route 85A/Maple Road in New Scotland. The preserve also provides access to the Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail. Upon arrival, attendees will receive trail maps during check-in to help guide their experience.
While registration is not required and the event is ifree, MHLC encourages guests to RSVP through the event website. Visitors can also find event details and a parking map online.
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