Inspired by one of the great naturalists of the 19th century, Enos Mills, each excursion will take us on an adventure as we explore away from the main trails. Our 182-acre “classroom” is rich with diverse habitats, including streams, forests, wetlands, beaver ponds, and open meadows. This three-week series runs weekly on Thursday afternoons. $30 members; $45 public. Pre-registration is required and the price includes all three weeks. Program designed for children ages 5-13. Themes for each week are listed below, so get ready for some January exploration!
Register for Trail School: January Explorations!
Harry Potter Forest
January 14, 2021 from 1-4pm
Let’s go on an adventure to explore the conifer trees of Harry Potter Forest! We’ll search for winter animals and enjoy the winter views the forest provides.
Hidden Meadow
January 21, 2021 from 1-4pm
Baltimore Woods has so many unique habitats to explore. This week we will take the secret trails to Hidden Meadow – who knows what we might find there!
Big Tree Search
January 28, 2021 from 1-4pm
Hiding in the depths of the forest are some wonderfully big trees. This week we will scout the hills and valleys to find the biggest and oldest trees in Baltimore Woods.
What can you expect from Trail School? This program focuses on child-led learning through play and exploration with the guidance of a naturalist who knows the preserve and the skills to encourage discovery, inquiry, experimentation, and imagination. Each day will include a hike through the forests and fields, often away from the main trail system. Naturalists will have field guides, magnifying lenses, observation jars, and other tools of discovery to help children deepen their curiosity and facilitate on-the-spot learning. Of course, nature itself will provide anything else we need, and there will be time for free play and the space for each child to connect with nature in their own way. Our naturalists are all CPR and First Aid certified, carry first aid kits and two-way radios, and are ready to keep the fun and exploration safe for your child.
More details: This program is planned to be entirely outdoors, so please dress for the weather. Lessons are suited for ages 5-13. Students must pre-register for the entire series. Adults are encouraged, but not required to join the group, and must stay on-site during the program. Bring a water bottle and a small snack. At Baltimore Woods Nature Center, the health and safety of our staff and visitors is of utmost importance. All in-person programming will follow best practices for keeping our participants safe, including health screenings, physical distancing and wearing facial coverings.
