If you're looking to engage with nature in more ways than just a walk in the woods, the Wargo Nature Center has a lineup of creative and educational activities to fit a variety of interests and age groups. According to their recently published schedule, they're hosting an Eco-Art Series where participants, aged 5 and up, can create nature-themed art projects, such as a 'Pet Rock' on February 1, and a 'Painted Flower Pot' on April 12.
Got a tiny human who's a budding naturalist or just can't resist a good mud puddle? The Saturday Nature Play might be their jam. Designed for ages 2-5, each session combines outdoor exploration with a storytime. And at $5 per child plus tax, it won't break the piggy bank. Catch "Mittens in the Snow" come February 15, and let's not forget the intrigue of "What’s in the Water?" on May 10 – because we all know toddlers sporting rain boots are serious about puddle science.
For the older kids or, let's be honest, the youthful-hearted adult, there's a range of more physically demanding activities. Whether you want to learn how to cross-country ski – which, by the way, is offered on February 12 and again on February 25 – or give women's snowshoeing a go on February 8, there's a clear push from the folks at Wargo to get you off the couch and onto the snow. The lessons aren't free, setting you back $20 a pop, but hey, that's the price of learning how to glide over snow like a pro.
Wildlife enthusiasts aren't left out. Armed with the knowledge obtained at the Lunch with a Naturalist event, they'll be ready to discuss "Urban Foxes & Coyotes" at no cost on February 12. And for those with a Sherlock Holmes streak, winter wildlife tracking is available on February 8 and 15, with a modest fee of $10 person. Out there in the cold, following animal tracks, you'll feel like a true detective of the natural world – albeit with warmer socks and less risk of a run-in with Moriarty.
For more information or to pen yourself in for an adventure, head over to the Anoka County website. Just remember to wrap up warm; Mother Nature's delights come with a side of winter chill, but the activities at Wargo are designed to leave you with a warm heart, if not toes.
