A World Class Environmental Learning Center for Residents and Visitors
At Walking Mountains Science Center we provide locals and visitors from pre-k to gray with opportunities to explore nature, gain a scientific understanding, and learn about the many wonders of our mountain environment through natural science and sustainability programs.
We envision a future where everyone in the community understands the science of nature and is inspired to take action as an environmental steward.
Come explore your curious nature with us at the Avon Tang Campus, Nature Discovery Center on Vail Mountain or Vail Nature Center!
Upcoming Events

Morning Bird Walk
June 25 @ 9:00 am | Walking Mountains Science Center
Explore meadows, forests, and riparian areas in search of our many resident birds. Learn about birding, bird identification, and habitats important to our avian friends. Reservations required. Please confirm th...

Moderate Nature Hike, Vail Mountain
June 25 @ 10:30 am | Nature Discovery Center
Register Here Join a Naturalist for a more strenuous, 2-mile guided hike for those 12+ years old to explore our mountain ecosystems on Vail Mountain. For those looking for a […]

Wildflower Walk, Vail Nature Center
June 25 @ 11:00 am | Vail Nature Center
Register Here Free. Reservations required. Please confirm that you have selected the correct date and time. Family-friendly and suitable for most physical abilities. Please come prepared to spend an hour [&hell...

Easy Nature Hike, Vail Mountain
June 25 @ 1:00 pm | Nature Discovery Center
Register Here Join a Walking Mountains Naturalist for an easy educational hike through the forest atop Vail Mountain beginning at the Nature Discovery Center. Free. Reservations required. Suitable for most [&he...

Free Nature Walk, Avon
June 25 @ 2:00 pm | Walking Mountains Science Center
Register Here A free winter nature walk is a perfect introduction to Colorado’s natural world. Join a Naturalist for a free, gentle educational hike through aspen and riparian communities at […]

Vail Nature Walk, Vail Nature Center
June 25 @ 2:00 pm | Vail Nature Center
Register Here Discover and learn about the ecology and wildlife of Vail in the meadows and woods along Gore Creek at the Vail Nature Center. Monday – Saturday | 2:00 […]

Evening Beaver Pond Tour, Vail
June 25 @ 7:00 pm | Vail Nature Center
Beavers are among nature’s most industrious creatures. Join us for educational activities and an approximately two-mile walk to a beaver pond to observe an active lodge. Reservations required. Please conf...

Nature Tykes, Avon
June 26 @ 10:00 am | Walking Mountains Science Center
Register Here Children will explore the natural world and have fun with others while developing their sense of place. Topics vary weekly and help children express their inherent wonder and […]

Moderate Nature Hike, Vail Mountain
June 26 @ 10:30 am | Nature Discovery Center
Register Here Join a Naturalist for a more strenuous, 2-mile guided hike for those 12+ years old to explore our mountain ecosystems on Vail Mountain. For those looking for a […]
prev
next
Walking Mountains Sustainability
The Latest
-
Dressing for the Wild
Now that most of the snow has melted and many local trails have opened, it's time to gear up for a summer of outdoor adventures. But how does one dress for success when facing the unpredictable elements of nature? Nature is full of organisms whose adaptations allow them to weather... Read more
-
Weeds We See, Invasive We Don't Know
There are more than 300,000 species of plants in the world. In Colorado we have more than 3000 species. Plants are very important because they are the base of the food chain, that is, everything higher up on the food chain relies on them. Many animals depend on them directly.... Read more
-
Growing your Garden: Tubers Versus Seeds
Seeds, tubers, cuttings, oh my! There are many ways to propagate garden plants, and understanding them can be both fascinating and a bit daunting. Plant propagation falls into two main categories: sexual and asexual reproduction.... Read more