Kalamazoo Nature Center a Winter Wonderland for Snowshoers & Cross Country Skiers

If you enjoy snowshoeing and cross country skiing, now is the time to visit the Nature Center.  When snow depths permit several trails are ideal for either activity.  Snowshoers can enjoy nearly every trail, but please do stay on the path.   The Fern Valley Trail is lovely; however it does have numerous water bars.  Raptor Ridge Trail is steep with many water bars; it can become quite icy. However, if the snow is deep enough you should be able to access the gravel pit overlook with its fine view of the Kalamazoo River Valley.

The best cross country skiing trails are at the old DeLano Farm property.  Park in the DeLano parking lot, and then head off on the Pioneer Woods Trail.  Depending on your time and snow conditions link up with the Green Heron Trail south into the splendid Pioneer Woods.  Follow Trout Run Trail for a short distance to the Source Pond Trail, and then ski along a ridge past century old beech and sugar maple trees.  The Source Pond is very beautiful at any time of year but especially so when it is snow covered and silent.  

 If your time is limited, you can ski directly from the parking lot to the Source Pond.  In the late afternoon listen for great horned owls calling. You can also access the DeLano area by way of Habitat Haven and Ridge Run Trails.  There is a tunnel under Westnedge Ave.  Beware! The section around the tunnel may have hidden tree trunks.

Beginner skiers might enjoy exploring the arboretum.  It’s a great place to look for signs of deer, coyotes and small mammals.  Wintering birds shelter in the many conifers. Watch for flocks of cedar waxwings and the less common white winged crossbills.

Beginners also appreciate the very level Habitat Haven Trail.  As the name suggests it circles through a variety of habitats that are frequented by all sorts of birds and mammals.  Watch for muskrats or great blue herons around the open pond.  Over wintering robins may hang out in the shrubs near Trout Run. Sharp eyed naturalists may observe tiny black specks hopping around in old animal tracks.  These are snow fleas – not the kind that pester your pets!

None of the Nature Center trails are groomed, so expect uneven conditions.  Thoughtful hikers and snowshoers should walk to the side of trails that are being used by skiers.  Everyone should respect fragile habitats by staying on the trails at all times.

Quick, go outside now while the snow is so lovely!