Winter Fun at the Chippewa Nature Center

It's the time of year to embrace winter and all it has to offer! Despite the earlier darkness and the chill in the air, the great outdoors remains as inviting as ever! Venture out to the Chippewa Nature Center (CNC) to discover all that's in store this winter. 

The Chippewa Nature Center exists to connect all people with nature through educational, recreational, and cultural experiences. Dennis Pilaske, Executive Director of the CNC emphasizes its year-round appeal.

"There's a mix of people that may not love the cold weather, and we just want to remind them that the visitor center is open seven days a week. Access to the ecosystem gallery, bird feeders, and more give the chance to see what winter has to offer from indoors."

For those who are excited to get outdoors in the winter temps, Pilaske says, "We've got 19 miles of trails for winter birding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing when there's enough snow. And if you want to dig a little deeper, there's all the staffed programs that we offer throughout the winter."
Photo courtesy of CNCCNC visitors make wreaths during Winter Solstice celebrationCelebrate the return of longer days during the Winter Solstice Celebration, happening from 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21. You're invited to create a beeswax candle, a Yule log, and an evergreen wreath. Wrap up the celebration with a peaceful walk along a lighted trail and campfire.

Kids of all ages can join in the fun during Nature Play, from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 22. Join other outdoor adventurers in The Woods Nature Play Area to make mud pies, build forts, and explore hands-on fun.
Photo courtesy of CNCCNC is hosting several free programs this winter.For those who want a more active experience, join the Evening Snowshoe Hikes. Explore the winter landscape, search for signs of animals, marvel at the winter sky, and connect with other nature lovers. The hikes take place from 5-6:30 p.m. on Jan. 2, Jan. 17, Jan. 28 and from 5:30-7 p.m. on Feb.13. Pre-register or reserve snowshoes by contacting the CNC.

Discover the hidden world of nature during Through the Lens of a Trail Camera, one of the newer programs at the CNC. From 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Jan. 6 learn how the Nature Center uses trail cameras around the property and what it takes to start using them at home too.

“There's all these things that are happening in nature that we're just not privy to. The trail camera does give you the chance to see what's happening at night or in some of the more remote areas to see what animals are out there. It's really sort of a peek behind the nature curtain to see what's happening," Pilaske says.
Photo courtesy of CNCThere is something for all ages to find at CNC this winter.If you're interested in the forest, meet up with others to explore the world of conifers during the Nature Connections class from 4-6 p.m. on Jan. 9. The guided experience will offer you an opportunity to make connections with nature through quiet reflection, photography, journaling, and more.

If you're looking for a way to get out in nature and give back, consider joining the Weekend Land Maintenance Volunteer Group. Beginning at 10 a.m. on Jan. 11 volunteers will join staff to work on projects like maintaining tree cages, brush and trash cleanup, or other stewardship projects. Ages 9 and up are welcome, but under 18 must be with an adult. Registration is requested by Jan. 4 for this event.

Gather around the campfire from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Jan. 16 for Stories By The Fire. Hosted at the Homestead, this cozy event will spin engaging tales of winters past. 

We're very fortunate to have this gem in our backyard. Embrace the magic of winter at Chippewa Nature Center and discover all the ways to enjoy the season. 

Learn more about the Chippewa Nature Center and its programs at ChippewaNatureCenter.org.