There’s no bones about it — one of the wildest attractions for kids in Livingston County is the Howell Nature Center.
I love featuring this spot, which has grown into quite a cool place for not only animals enthusiasts, but outdoor enthusiasts as well.
The popular Alexandria’s Playscape and treehouse are amazing during summer {May – October}, but what is there to do in winter?
If you’re looking for a neat spot to spend a little time and get some fresh air, the Howell Nature Center has you covered during all seasons!
Here are some ideas for things to do during a cold weather visit.
Visiting Howell Nature Center in Winter
Nature Trails
HNC is home to several nature trails. Bring your own snowshoes and check them out! The center also hosts special guided hikes, which I would recommend if it’s your first visit.
The Raptor Sledding Hill
The Raptor sledding hill recently opened and is located behind the raptor {bird} area. Say hello to one of our family’s favorites — a chatty bald eagle named Kili and head over to the hill. This hill is a starter hill and fantastic for little ones who can’t handle the long uphill trek after sledding down.
A larger hill is under construction and will be opening next year. We can’t wait!
Walk Through The Wild Wonders Wildlife Park
Spanning a half-mile trail, the Wild Wonders Wildlife Park is home to more than 70 permanently injured, non-releasable Michigan native birds, mammals and reptiles.
While some HNC animals friends are off-exhibit during winter, there are still plenty to see. Some of our favorites are the snowy owls, the red foxes, the Bobcat, and Michigan’s own official groundhog, Woody.
Make sure you stop at each spot and read the stories of the animals — they provide great lessons! My kids enjoy learning their names and the stories of how they got to the HNC. The stories have helped them learn to never handle wildlife unless absolutely necessary.
Additionally, the HNC recently paved the trail to see the animals, and it’s a game changer! It makes accessing the animals in winter much easier and will be great for those with strollers or wagons come spring.
Check Out A Special Event
From an Owl Prowl where event goers can listen to owls hooting in the woods, to snowshoe treasure hunts and survival challenges, there is a lot for families to check out. {See here} Also, while zip lining isn’t open during the coldest parts of winter, come March, it’s back ON.
At this time, events require pre-registration, so make sure to plan ahead.
Note: The HNC has recently launched their summer day, overnight, and excursion camp registration for those of you with sunshine on the mind 😉
Bathrooms
For any nature loving family, bathrooms are a concern! Thankfully the Howell Nature Center has indoor bathrooms. They are located across from the raptor area. I always suggest we use it before venturing away from the building!
Food
There is not food on the premises, so I would recommend packing a lunch and having a car picnic. If you’d rather visit a restaurant and are up for a few miles of travel, my top picks for families visiting this area are Block Brewing Company {it’s a brewery with a lot of space}, Tomato Brothers for dine-in or Gus’s Carryout {don’t skip the breadsticks!} and M Street Baking Co. {ya’ll know you want an extreme milkshake}.
Location and Admission
The Howell Nature Center is open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The cost of admission is $6 for adults, $4 for youth {ages 3-17} and free for those under age 2. Seniors (65+) & military are eligible for a $2 off admission.
If you’re local and visit a lot, I highly recommend a membership!
TIP: If you have a library card, you may be eligible for free entry. Check out the Michigan Activity Pass program to learn more.
When you arrive, simply visit the Welcome Center to pay the fee or show your MAP on your mobile device.
Address: 1005 Triangle Lake Rd., Howell, MI 48843 {6 miles south of I-96, exit 137}.
Have so much fun if you visit!
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