Winter Prairie Snowshoe Walk

UPDATE: If there's not enough snow (at least 6 inches), we'll be walking New Amsterdam Grasslands without snowshoes. It's beautiful out there!

Ever wonder how wildlife lives through the winter months? Join us to learn while exploring New Amsterdam Grasslands nature preserve on snowshoes! Even those who’ve never been on snowshoes, will have a chance to give it a try. It’s easy and fun, and there will even be a limited number of snowshoes available on loan at this winter kick-off to our 2019 "Linked to the Land" series of outdoor activities.

Staff and volunteers will be available to help with snowshoe basics.The family-friendly snowshoe walk begins at the trailhead parking area of the New Amsterdam Grasslands nature preserve at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 19, 2019.

THIS IS A FREE EVENT. RSVP IS REQUIRED TO BORROW SNOWSHOES (while supplies last).

The 310-acre New Amsterdam Grasslands nature preserve provides critical nesting habitat for rare grassland birds, like the state threatened Henslow's Sparrow and Bell's Vireo. In addition to protection of wildlife habitat, this property provides a great outdoor recreational resource for residents and visitors to the area. While much of the preserve is off limits to visitors from April through July to protect ground-nesting birds, winter is an ideal time to explore more of the land. The terrain is mostly flat, making it easy for snowshoe walking.

Email RSVP’s are required to reserve snowshoes for this free event (available on a first-come-first-served reservation basis). Snowshoe size is based on body weight. RSVP’s from all who plan to attend are appreciated. RSVP by email to info@mississippivalleyconservancy.org and include number of pairs of snowshoes needed, weight of each person borrowing snowshoes, and contact information.

WHAT TO WEAR: Wear boots and dress in layers appropriate for winter weather.