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
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Evening Beaver Pond Tour, Vail
July 15 @ 7:00 pm | Vail Nature Center
Register Here 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 require...
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Earthkeepers, Walking Mountains Science Center in Avon
July 16 @ 10:00 am |
Register Here Summer 2024 Schedule: Dates & Topic June 25 & 28 Dirt Made My Lunch July 2 & 5 All About Wolves July 16 & 19 Beautiful Butterflies July […]
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Wildflower Walk, Vail Nature Center
July 16 @ 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...
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Free Nature Walk, Avon
July 16 @ 2:00 pm | Walking Mountains Science Center
Register Here A free 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 our […]
![](https://www.walkingmountains.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/VailNatureCenter-403x227.jpg)
Free Nature Walk, Vail Nature Center
July 16 @ 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 […]
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Early Bird, Bird Walk, Walking Mountains Science Center in Avon
July 17 @ 9:00 am |
Register Here 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. Ple...
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Moderate Nature Hike, Vail Mountain
July 17 @ 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 […]
![](https://www.walkingmountains.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Walking-Mountains-Science-Center-Vail-Hiking-11-of-21-403x227.jpg)
Wildflower Walk, Vail Nature Center
July 17 @ 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...
![](https://www.walkingmountains.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Girl-Flower-VCD8319_Jack-Affleck-1-Edit-403x227.jpg)
Easy Nature Hike, Vail Mountain
July 17 @ 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...
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Walking Mountains Sustainability
The Latest
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Reflections on the Foley Graduate Fellowship: Growth, Gratitude and Moving Forward
The Walking Mountains Foley Graduate Fellowship is a two-year, three-month program where educators teach school programs, summer camps and afterschool programs while earning their Master’s in Science Education from the University of Northern Colorado. In July, the educator team will narrow from twelve to eight as four of us graduate.... Read more
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Celebrating 50 Years of the Vail Nature Center: A Legacy of Conservation and Education for Eagle County
Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Gore Range and the peaceful Gore Creek, the Vail Nature Center stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of conservation and environmental education. As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, this cherished institution continues to inspire visitors and locals alike with its commitment... Read more
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Glaciers in Colorado
Glaciers are awe-inspiring geological formations that have defined landscapes all over the world, including Colorado. A glacier is formed when snow accumulates for many years until thick ice is formed, at least a portion of which lasts year-round. For this collection of ice to be named a glacier, it must... Read more