Active Outdoors is a monthly program sponsored by Mayo Clinic Health System with the goal of introducing families and adults in our community to fun activities that can be done outdoors. Each month we will introduce you to a new, fun activity!
Instruction for adults: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Instruction for families: 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Program Fee: $5/person; $15/family
Hunt Hill Members: Free admission
Registration is required by the day before each program at noon. To register, click the button next to the event description to access the online registration form. At the end of the form, you will be given a link to pay online using your credit card or ACH payment. You may pay online or bring cash or check on the day of the event.
Don’t want to use the registration form? Call 715-635-6543.
Introduction to Snowshoeing
Saturday, January 30, 2021
Participants will learn the physics of how snowshoes keep them on top of the snow, how to strap on different types of snowshoes, and the basics of walking in snowshoes. Following that brief introduction, participants will go on a short ½ mile guided hike to test out their new skills. Participants are encouraged to stay after instruction to test out other trails and to enjoy hot drinks. Snowshoes will be available to borrow at no cost.
Snow Sculpting
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Saturday, February 20, 2021
Participants will learn how to create snow sculptures using snow, a cooler, and common household tools. After learning the basics, participants will get to create their own snow sculpture for others at Hunt Hill to admire.
Maple Syrup Demonstration
Saturday, March 27, 2021
NOTE: This program will take place off-site at Lehman Lake Rd in Shell Lake.
Participants will learn why sap moves through the maple trees and how to identify a maple. Then they will identify their own maple tree and tap it. Next, they will collect up sap from previously tapped trees and boil it over a fire.
Plant a Pocket Prairie
Saturday, April 24, 2021
Participants will learn about the importance of prairie habitats and how to plan a pocket of prairie to attract beneficial animals such as birds and butterflies to their yards. Then they will all get to plant some starter seeds to transplant to their yards when the weather gets warmer.
Intro to Birding
Saturday, May 22, 2021
Participants will learn about how to spot and identify the birds that live in our area. They will get tips and tricks for using binoculars to help them get a better look at birds. Finally, they will learn what technology they can use to assist them in becoming even better birders.
Click the button below to register for either session.
Intro to Canoeing
Saturday, June 12, 2021
Participants will learn the basic strokes needed to get started with canoeing and then will have the opportunity to test out their new skills on a calm chain of lakes. Canoes, paddles, and lifejackets are provided. A lifeguard will be present to monitor safe canoeing.
Click the button below to register for either session.
Wild Edibles
Saturday, July 31, 2021
Participants will learn from local mushroom expert Tavis Lynch. Participants will go on a hike to identify and sustainably harvest a few edible mushrooms and other wild edibles that live at Hunt Hill.
Click the button below to register for either session.
Outdoor Yoga
Saturday, August 14, 2021
Participants will get to relax and stretch outside in nature on the Hunt Hill lawn. This beginners yoga session will be led by Deb Johnson who teaches yoga in Spooner.
Cooking Wild Foods
Saturday, September 11, 2021
Participants will join Joan Jacobowski on a short hike around Hunt Hill to spot some wild foods and then chow down on some cattail pollen cookies and crab apple sherbet.
Pumpkin Carving
Saturday, October 23, 2021
Participants will try out some pumpkin carving techniques with a local artist. Carving tools and pumpkins are provided; all you have to bring is yourself!
Nature Photography
Saturday, November 6, 2021
Participants will learn strategies for taking breathtaking nature photos from a local photographer and come along on a short hike to practice our photography skills. Digital cameras will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own if you would prefer.
Geocaching Challenge
Saturday, December 11, 2021
Participants will learn and practice some GPS skills and then race to solve a geocaching challenge at the sanctuary! GPS devices will be provided or you are welcome to bring your own or use a GPS app on your phone.