Inside Nix Nature Center, in addition to the topographical map that offers a hawk’s-eye view of Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, there are hands-on activities that make learning fun and memorable for everyone in the family. Children can dig for fossils, peer through microscopes at tiny bugs and take part in free quarterly wildlife programs featuring live animals, Native American customs, craft projects and more. There is also film footage that celebrates the canyon’s history.
Mary’s Trail, which starts just outside the center, is a half-mile educational loop trail specifically designed to excite young kids about the myriad plants, birds and animals that inhabit our wilderness areas. Scavenger hunts offer fun activities within shady environs, bracketed by laurel sumac and lemonade berry trees. The trail meanders across a small meadow and a bridge over a dry creek bed – and what kid doesn’t love a bridge? The level grade of the trail makes this an easy introductory hike for all ages.
The center also offers a Junior Ranger badge program – just like the ones in national parks – which inspires kids to explore and protect their environment. Visit letsgooutside.org to sign up for hiking and educational programs for the whole family.
