CONTACT: Mary Jo Lewis, Nature Center Supervisor
719-520-6388 | maryjolewis@elpasoco.com
Bear Creek Nature Center; 245 Bear Creek Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
ONLINE REGISTRATION: www.elpasocountynaturecenters.com
All programs require pre-registration. To register, visit www.elpasocountynaturecenters.com. Please check website for current status.
December Forest Bathing
Saturday, December 9, 1:00-3:30 p.m.
Experience the therapeutic practice of Shinrinyoku and awaken your senses with a slow, mindful walk through the woods and a beautiful tea ceremony. More info at: www.listeningpines.com
Prepaid registration required.
$30 per person/$20 per member
Bear Creek by Candlelight
Friday, December 1, 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Join us for Bear Creek Nature Center’s annual holiday celebration! Walk on luminary-lit nature trails, enjoy live music, a bowl of warm chili from Texas Roadhouse, Santa Claus and festive crafts. Local children’s author Susan Permut will do a read-aloud of ‘The Christmas Camel’ with copies available for purchase and signing.
Pre-register for specific times. $8 per person // $7 per member.
Kids’ Night Out: A Winter Evening in Nature
Friday, December 15, 5:30-9:00 p.m.
Caregivers- Enjoy an evening to yourself while your child spends the evening at Bear Creek hiking, learning about adaptations of animals in winter, and creating a seasonal ornament. Dinner included. Dress for weather and night hike.
$25 per child // $20 per member child. Prepaid registration required.
Gingerbread Habitats
Saturday, December 16, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Can you catch the Gingerbread…. bear…or deer? Create Gingerbread Habitats that include animals and flora from Bear Creek habitats! Individuals, friends, and families can enjoy a morning of creative decorating with frosting, candy, and our tasty gingerbread.
$20 per kit // $15 per member kit. Pre-registration required.
Bear Creek Nature Center Audubon Christmas Bird Count
Saturday, December 16 Bird Count– 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Tally Rally– 5:00-6:30 p.m.
All are welcome for Bear Creek Regional Park’s portion of 2023’s Christmas Bird Count. Be prepared for cold, snow and icy trails. Afterwards, gather at Bear Creek Nature Center from 5-6:30 pm for a potluck and species compilations.
$5 per person suggested donation.
Geminids Meteor Shower Photography Workshop
Thursday, December 14, 10:00 p.m.
Colorado Springs photographer Mike Pach of 3 Peaks Photography & Design will guide this nighttime photography workshop to capture images during the Geminid Meteor Shower. Stay until the height of the shower at 2am or leave earlier if you choose. Bring camera with wide variety of lenses and tripod/remote if you have one. Dress for weather and bring a camping chair if you want. All skill levels. Limited participants.
$20 per person. Prepaid registration required.
Little Wonders- My Furry Friends
Wednesday, December 20, 10:00-11:15 a.m. and 1:00-2:15 p.m.
Discover the world of nature with your 2- or 3-year-old. Learn about how animals’ fur helps them live through the winter.
Prepaid registration required
$3/person including siblings and adults
Nature Explorers- Winter Wildcats
Wednesday, December 13, 10:00-11:30 a.m. and 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Discover the world of nature with your 4- or 5-year-old. Pounce on in and learn about the wildcats near and around Bear Creek.
Prepaid registration required
$3/person including siblings and adults