Walking Mountain locations open for summer
AVON — Walking Mountains Science Center’s three facilities opened for the summer Saturday.
In addition to its summer science camps for children, Walking Mountains will also be offering a variety of adult programming, guided hikes and family programs at three locations all summer long. New this year, the majority of programs will be available for online registration at http://www.walking mountains.org/sp.
Walking Mountains Science Center, Avon
Throughout the summer, Walking Mountains Science Center will continue to host the Science Behind series. This series covers topics from the science behind sound to mushrooms. For the younger member of the family, Walking Mountains provides early childhood programs (6 months to 5 years old) during the morning, three days a week. Help your child develop sensory awareness and comfort in the outdoors. Children will create nature crafts and hike throughout the 5-acre campus.
Vail Nature Center, Vail
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Walking Mountains Science Center is in the second year of operating the Vail Nature Center with support from the Vail Recreation District. Walking Mountains’ Naturalists continue the traditions of guided morning bird walks and interpretive wildflower walks. Vail Nature Center evening programs remain an essential summer event; from beaver pond tours at a nearby lodge to s’mores over the fire. The family oriented evening programs treat guests to an experiential and education night. The Vail Nature Center also serves as a base camp for the Adult Backcountry Hikes where adults can enjoy a full-day or half-day hike with a trained naturalist. New this year, the town of Vail has added the Vail Nature Center as a stop on the in-town bus route.
Nature Discovery Center, Vail
Perched high above the Vail skyline is another option for educational summer fun. The Nature Discovery Center is located at Eagles Nest at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola. A traditional Mongolian yurt, the Discovery Center tells the story of the area’s wildlife and has examples of lynx, bobcat and a bear. There are free daily nature walks twice a day and an additional twilight tour beginning the weekend of June 25. Naturalists share their love of the mountain while discussing animal adaptations or the nocturnal wildlife that make Vail mountain their home.
In addition to the three centers, Walking Mountains staff can also be found at campgrounds throughout Eagle County presenting fireside programs or guiding tours along Gore Creek during the Vail Farmers’ Market. Visit their website to see all the options this summer and register online for your favorite programs. Join in the fun all throughout the summer all around Eagle County and see yourself in nature!
To learn more about summer programs and to register online, visit http://www.walking mountains.org/sp.
