// BY BETSY NATTER

It’s cold outside but there is still plenty of activity in the woodlands and parks throughout Montgomery County. Many animals are especially active as owls and foxes are in the midst of mating seasons. Resist the urge to hibernate indoors and join naturalists at these area parks for winter excursions to learn about animals and habitats or just to enjoy a brisk hike in the winter landscape.

Green Lane Park

2821 Hill Rd., Green Lane, PA 18054 // (215) 234-4528

Winter Wonders Hike: Enjoy a leisurely hike on Sat., Jan. 20 at 10 am to explore the woods in winter. Hike the Blue Trail as you investigate animal signs, winter trees and the beauty of the woods. Adults and children over age 9 are welcome. Meet outside the boat rental office off of Hill Rd. Pre-registration is required for this free event.

Winter Tree ID Made Easy: Leaves are not the only way to identify a tree. Join park staff on this guided hike on Sat., Jan. 27 at 1 pm to learn how to identify trees using bark, buds, and twigs to discover the identities of the silent sentinels of the winter woods. Meet at the Stone Pavilion in the Deep Creek Area of the park located at 2144 Snyder Road, Green Lane, PA 18054. The program is free to adults and children ages 9 and over.

Sunset n Babes

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Wissahickon Environmental Center

300 Northwestern Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19128 // (215) 685-9285

Kids Explore – Winter Wonderland: Let the kids explore the forest in winter on Sat., Jan. 20 beginning at 10 am and learn about animals that are active during these cold months. Dress warmly for this two hour outdoor event. Parents are welcome to stay with kids ages 6-12. Registration by calling the park office

Photographing the Wonder of the Winter Woods: Join other photography buffs for a walk in the Andorra Natural Area on Sat., Jan. 20 from 1 – 2:30 pm as you seek capture the beauty of the winter woods. Join local photographer Kim Soles for an indoor presentation of her nature work and then head outside to capture your own images. Registration is required and space is limited. This program is for adults and children age 12 and older.

 

Norristown Farm Park

2500 Upper Farm Rd., Norristown, PA 19403 // (610) 270-0215

Winter Animals: Head on out to the park on Tues., Jan 23 at 1 pm and learn about animals during the winter and some of their adaptations to survive during the winter cold. This program for children ages 3 and up (with an adult) includes a story and a craft. Preregistration and a $5 per child fee is required.

Winter Full Moon Hike: Experience the crisp cold air and stillness of the woods lit by a full moon in winter. Join park staff for this special 2-mile evening hike on Wed., Jan. 31 at 5:30 pm. The hike is for children age 8 and over and adults. Pre-registration is required. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear and warm clothing. Meet in parking lot #5.

Thursday morning beauty~

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Four Mills Reserve

Wissahickon Valley Watershed // 12 Morris Rd., Ambler, PA 19002 // (215) 646-8866

Seasonal Family Exploration: Bring the whole family to explore the woods at the WVWA headquarters site on Sat., Jan. 20 at 1 pm. You’ll be looking for signs of animal activity in the winter woods and animal tracks in the snow. The program is free for children under 12 and association members; $10 for non-members. Be sure to dress for the weather. Activities and refreshments are included.

 

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