the great outdoors are calling…
Ms. Judith, our Nature Special Teacher likes to say “there is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” With the weather we’ve been having I may also add “and not enough hot tea.” Even when it’s cold outside, our region has amazing natural resources and so much sun that it’s unusual to find a week where you couldn’t get out in nature at least once! One of the things we love to think about with our students is how a familiar place changes throughout the seasons. We wanted to share some of our regional favorite spots for watching nature and wildlife throughout the year. Maybe you and your student will find a favorite place to sit and watch change as time passes.
randall davey audubon center & sanctuary
Located just down the road from the school, this is a great resource for families looking to escape right in town. With a fabulous play structure, walking paths, close proximity to the Dale Ball trail system, and areas for observation and reflection, the Audubon Center is perfect for, well, everyone! Regular programs for the Center resume February 1 (hot tip: 8:30 AM every Saturday, Bird walks led by local experts, FREE!)
leonora curtin wetland preserve
Formerly run by the Santa Fe Botanical Garden, this beautiful wetland just off the frontage road is now managed by El Rancho de las Golondrinas. Like the museum, visiting is restricted to the “on season” and may require a sign up before showing up. Once the preserve opens again in the spring, don’t miss the opportunity to wander around the huge cottonwoods and delight in the wetlands. It is a truly magical experience.
bosque del apache
Just a few hours south on 25 brings you to this absolute treasure. You can go for a drive through the preserve, bring your lunch, sign up for a guided tour, or just sit and admire the migrating birds that make a pit stop on their journey. There isn’t much around Bosque del Apache, so bring your own snacks or make a day of it by stopping in Albuquerque on the way there or back.
valles caldera national preserve
Did you know that you can actually go to a volcanic crater and walk around in it? It’s not such a long drive to head over to the Valles Caldera, and the scenery is beautiful along the way. Bring your snowshoes and cross country skis and explore one of the coolest geologic experiences in our region!
