The Walking Mountains Science Centre is a well appointed facility that runs school programs, nature walks, etc. The scheduled activities look great. But for the casual visitor, there really isn't much to see and do. My three year old enjoyed a 20 minute ramble around the pond, but that was really all there was to the center, which was disappointing for us. The exhibits were really small, and geared for older children (mostly about geology, with a few skulls and pelts that interested my small girl). We were hoping for at least a craft and colouring area, but the seating had been taken over by a mother lecturing some others on her homeschooling techniques while the kids had set up camp in the beaver display, much to my child's disappointment as they wouldn't let her in. They were still there after our walk... So because there was nothing else to do, we left.
We loved the 1-hour 11:00 nature hike on Vail Mountain. Our Naturalist, Sage, was extremely knowledgeable, as well as engaging, and welcomed comments and questions from all ages. We are SO pleased we had this memorable experience in our short time in Colorado! The views were priceless; the exercise was healthy (and we learned about another trail to explore further on our own), and we learned a lot in a very short time! I would love to come back with our grandchildren. We also loved the experience of riding the Eagle Bahn Gondola up to the top of Vail Mountain. The Nature Discovery Center in the Walking Mountains Yurt, where we gathered for the hike, is a learning experience of its own.
fun to walk around and see information. don't expect a huge nature museum...but it is pretty amazing for vail valley!
Lovely little centre with some informative and attractive displays.We took advantage of the free afternoon nature walk around the centre. Our guide was a university grad. Various plants were pointed out to us, information on the trees, pond and animal signs. Questions were answered and we came away having learned something.The centre is used by school children and there are various lectures. Best to check the website for topics. www.walkingmountains.org. Books available for purchase and other items such as t shirts and educational items.Parking available. Donations accepted.
This natural science center is just what the vail valley needs. It's a great place to just drop in and visit. They have walking paths that also have educational stops along the way and an indoor hands on exhibit hall. If you're visiting for an extended period of time or live in the Vail area, they have many classes and camps for both kids and adults. I took a 2 hour cheese making class there about a month ago after work and it was fantastic and well attended.
We stopped here to break-up a long week of skiing. Our kids really enjoyed the visit especially the guided nature tours. It was a great opportunity to slow down and explore the nature we had been flying by on our skis all week.
I would strongly recommend fitting this 2pm free walk into your schedule if you're in the Vail Valley. It is beautiful and super informative. It is not physically challenging, so is appropriate for all ages. After doing today's walk, we plan to join them Monday night for the Beaver Pond walk as well!
Took the kids and they had a great time and a good hike here in the mountains near Avon. We were staying at Beaver Creek West and this was only 5 minutes away
We just love this natural science museum and their walking trails. We plan to send our grandchildren to their summer programs as soon as they are old enough to attend - great for ages six to ninety-six!
Having been several times, i am constantly amazed at what this place offers. Goodness knows, big moma earth loves some eco-science education... Kim Langmaid and her wonderful crew are nailing it. Where's Miss Brittney? She was awesome, too. Things change...Take a moment and visit - well worth it for the young 'uns.