Fontenelle Forest

SPEND JUST 20 MINUTES IN NATURE AND FEEL HAPPIER, SO PACK YOUR SNEAKERS AND EXPERIENCE FONTENELLE FOREST’S ALL-SEASONS BEAUTY

One of the largest privately-operated nature centers in the nation and listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, Fontenelle Forest encompasses 1,400 acres and includes 19 miles of trails of varying lengths and climbs. Fontenelle is home to more than 600 different species of animal and plant life and a wide range of different ecosystems, from deciduous forest to oak savanna, prairie and wetlands. Rent binoculars to enhance your visit; power scooters, wheelchairs and strollers are also available.

Raptor Wildlife Refuge offers an up-close look at rescued hawks, owls, falcons and eagles thirty feet above the forest floor. Walk across a suspension bridge, get a birds-eye view of the Forest, and see these amazing birds of prey in 13 customized mini raptor resorts called mews. Stave off the winter blues thanks to cold-weather fun like snowshoeing (shoes are available to rent), yoga indoors, and guided winter night hikes.

3 CAN’T-MISS TRAILS

Riverview Boardwalk, 1.32 mile loop: One-mile ADA-accessible boardwalk that allows for a mud-free, all-weather experience through the Forest and easy access for wheelchairs and strollers. Don’t miss the Constitution Tree, a bur oak dating back to 1751. The Great Marsh, 1 mile loop: Mostly flat, sandy trails wind through this staff favorite. Special features include Camp Gifford and Gifford Memorial Boardwalk.

History Trail, 1.35 miles: Immerse yourself in history on this self-guided tour of fifteen historic area locations.

TreeRush Adventure Park at Fontenelle Forest

is an exhilarating way to experience the area. Visitors ages 4 to 94 can explore the old-growth forest from the treetops at this aerial amusement park suspended over 6 acres. After expert instruction, navigate suspended obstacles, bridges, rope ladders, tunnels and other surprises that make up the more than 100 challenges and 10 ziplines. Seven different trails are color-coded according to level of difficulty and are marked beginner to expert. Trails are anywhere from 10 feet to 55 feet above the ground. For pint-sized thrill seekers, there’s KidRush. Ideal for kids ages 4 to 6 but fun for ages 7 and 8 too, this area is specially designed with smaller bodies in mind. The obstacles are only a few feet off the ground, allowing for a parent or guardian to walk alongside. Tip: Plan for three hours including instruction, getting in and out of safety gear, and two hours of climbing. Wear sneakers or hiking shoes and well-fitting clothing.

AND TREERUSH ADVENTURE PARK