REG = online registration is required by scanning this code
WAKE UP, IT’S WINTER!
This snowy season your Zionsville Parks and Recreation Department team will keep the Town ‘buzzing’ with outdoor programming and events. Join us throughout the season as Winterfest comes to Town December – February with new and returning fan favorite programming. Before the holidays be sure to grab some gifts at our outdoor Maker’s Market, spend time with Santa and Buddy the Elf at Christmas in the Park, visit our new Lincoln Lights, or count down the ‘Noon’ year with us. After the holidays, warm up at Winterfest with our first ever Java Trail, or spend the perfect Valentine’s evening in one of our private igloo rentals. There’s so much to do this season so Get up. Bundle Up. And go Play!
Jarod Logsdon, CPRP Superintendent of Parks and Recreation Town of Zionsville
HOW TO REACH US
ZIONSVILLE PARKS AND RECREATION
1100 W Oak Street Zionsville, IN 46077 www.zionsville-in.gov/parks 317-733-2273
ZIONSVILLE NATURE CENTER
250 N 5th Street Zionsville, IN 46077 317-873-8950
naturecenter@zionsville-in.gov
ZIONSVILLE GOLF COURSE
10799 E 550 S Zionsville, IN 46077 317-873-4218
For questions regarding programs and events: recreation@zionsville-in.gov
For questions regarding parks and facilities: parks@zionsville-in.gov
Connect with us on social media: @zionsvilleparksrecreation
To register for a program, reserve a shelter or sign up for a dog park membership: www.zionsvilleparksandrecreation.org
Updated October 2023 – not to scale *Lions Park is operated by Lions Club
WELCOME TO ZIONSVILLE PARKS
Creekside Nature Park 11001 East Sycamore Street
Elm Street Green 165 N Elm Street
Heritage Trail Park 4050 S 875 E
Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library AND Zionsville Nature Center (inside) 250 N 5th Street
Lincoln Park 41 2nd Street
Maplelawn Farmstead 9575 Whitestown Road
Mulberry Fields Park 9645 Whitestown Road
Overley-Worman Park 6040 Godello Circle
Starkey Nature Park 667 Sugarbush Drive
replace with winter map
Town Hall Plaza 1100 W Oak Street
Turkey Foot Nature Park 4795 Turkeyfoot Avenue
Zion Nature Sanctuary 690 Beech Street
Zionsville Golf Course 10799 E 550 S
Zionsville Road Trailhead 10230 Zionsville Road
A CELEBRATION OF THE WINTER SEASON
Lincoln Lights
Get ready to experience the magic of Lincoln Lights at Lincoln Park right here in Zionsville! From late November to mid-February, Lincoln Park will sparkle with festive holiday lights, including a beautifully lit gazebo, presented by Hometown Lawns. Be sure to look out for our enchanting outdoor igloos brought to you MIBOR. Come celebrate the beauty of winter with us!
Saturday, November 30–Sunday, February 15
Lincoln Park, 41 S 2nd Street
Open-Air Maker’s Market
Join us for our Winterfest Maker’s Market down on Zionsville’s Brick Main Street. The market will be bigger this year, spanning down the brick street! With more makers and artists, more food truck options, seasonal music, carolers and a few more surprises up our sleeves. Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts just in time for the holidays.
Saturday, December 7
10:00 am–1:00 pm
Zionsville Main Street and Pine
Imagine old-fashioned winter celebrations. Warming frosty fingers around a steaming mug of cocoa, the laughter of children, the aroma of a crackling fire.
There is something for everyone in the family to enjoy during our three month-long celebration of the winter season!
Christmas in the Park
The elves have taken over as Christmas in the Park returns to Zionsville! Complete your Elf Boot Camp missions and become one of Santa’s elves. Attend Elf Academy and learn about animals in winter with the Zionsville Nature Center. Enjoy hot chocolate and a tasty treat with Buddy the Elf at our toasty campfire. Enjoy a visit with Santa, activities, a candy cane scavenger hunt and MORE as we bring Christmas to the park this holiday season! Parking will not be available at the park.
Register to secure your spot.
Saturday, December 14, 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Elm Street Green, 165 N Elm Street
Ages: 12 and under
Fee: $3/resident, $4/non-resident, under 2 years FREE
Java Trail
For one night only, Zionsville’s beloved Brick Street businesses will stay open late, creating an exclusive evening of coffee-themed excitement. This is a rare chance to explore your favorite spots after hours, with special deals, meals, drinks, and activities designed to warm you up on a cold winter night. Sip on a cozy brew, enjoy live music, and discover unique offerings as you stroll through our charming town and Lincoln Park.
Registration required to get your Java Trail mug and map for all the deals and delights and join us for a caffeinated evening!
Thursday, January 9, 4:00–7:00 pm
Lincoln Park, 41 S 2nd Street
Fee: $10
Noon Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve is a great time to celebrate all we’ve done and all we will do in the coming year. However, midnight can come too late for young ones, and let’s face it, sometimes the adults. Join us as we celebrate the New Year a little early with activities for all ages and a countdown to NOON!
All participants must register to attend as space is limited.
Tuesday, December 31, 11:30 am–12:30 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Ages: 2+
Zionsville Puzzle Swap
Calling all puzzle lovers, Zionsville Puzzle Swap is now a part of Winterfest! This fun event returns for its third year with some new surprises. In celebration of National Puzzle Day, you are invited to bring gently used puzzles to Zionsville Town Hall between January 2 and 23. Then return to Town Hall on Saturday, January 25 to choose a new one. Last year over 1,000 puzzles were swapped in 2 hours!
Saturday, January 25, 9:00–11:00 am
Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W Oak Street
REG
Zionsville Puzzle Swap:
Early Bird Tickets REG
Want a chance to have first look at the puzzles and shop in a relaxed atmosphere? We will have a limited number of Early Bird Access Tickets available for the swap. Early Birds get a chance to shop first from 8:30–9:00 am before the event opens to the rest of ticket holders. Coffee and donuts will be provided to our early shoppers. Don’t forget you still need your puzzle tickets to shop.
Saturday, January 25, 8:30–9:00 am
Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W Oak Street Fee: $5
OFFICIAL RULES OF PUZZLE SWAPPING
• Puzzles can be any size but must be in their original box or tin, we will not accept puzzles in plastic bags.
• All pieces must be accounted for, no puzzles with missing pieces will be accepted.
• Puzzles must be in good condition and no older than 15 years.
• No puzzles accepted outside of normal Town Hall business hours or after January 23. Town Hall is open 8:00 am–4:00 pm.
• No puzzles accepted day of the swap.
• No puzzles with profanity, nudity or drug or alcohol paraphernalia will be accepted.
• No wooden baby or toddler puzzles will be accepted.
• You will receive 1 ticket for every puzzle you bring. Max of 10 puzzles per person. You MUST have your tickets to enter the swap.
• Zionsville Parks and Recreation reserves the right to keep, donate or destroy any puzzles that do not follow guidelines listed above or are not swapped by the end of the program on January 25.
• Town Hall will be closed January 1 and 20 for holidays.
REG
Frozen Fête
Town Hall will be transformed into a family-friendly winter wonderland complete with a visit from Anna and Elsa of Frozen fame, dancing, snacks, desserts and drinks, activities, photo stations, and more! Princes, princesses, and their royal adults are cordially invited to dress in evening attire and step out in style to celebrate all things winter!
Saturday, February 1, 6:00 pm–8:00 pm
Zionsville’s Town Hall
1100 W Oak Street
Fee: $25
Ages: 2+
Fireside Nights
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in a magical winter wonderland at Lincoln Park! From February 13-15, reserve your own cozy igloo for a romantic picnic, a dreamy marriage proposal, or a fun, picture-perfect photo shoot. The park will be beautifully illuminated with holiday lights, and a crackling campfire will help warm chilly fingers, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening.
February 13–15, 4:00–10:00 pm
Lincoln Park
41 S 2nd Street
Fee: $25 REG
CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES
Candy Cane Scavenger Hunt
Celebrate National Candy Cane Day with us at the Zionsville Nature Center! Drop-in to complete our scavenger hunt and go home with a candy cane or prize.
Thursday, December 26, 12:00–4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Drop-in Discovery
Drop into the Zionsville Nature Center to explore new topics each month with our Naturalist staff. Celebrate the changing seasons with crafts and activities for all ages.
WINTER WEATHER
Saturday, December 21, 12:00–4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
HIBERNATION
Wednesday, January 8, 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center 250 N 5th Street
OWLS
Tuesday, February 25, 12:00–4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Girl Scout Saturday: Math in Nature REG
Calling all Daisy and Brownie Girl Scouts! Join a Naturalist to discover shapes, patterns, and symmetry in nature. We will hike to the Zion Nature Sanctuary to search for inspiration and then create art. This program will cover some requirements for the Math in Nature 1: Shapes in Nature badge for both Daisy and Brownie Girl Scouts. Parents are required to stay with their scout. Saturday, February 8, 2:00–3:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Ages: 5–8
Fee: $3/resident, $4/nonresident
Junior Naturalist REG
Kids, here is your chance to become a Naturalist for a day at the Zionsville Nature Center. Work with our staff to clean and feed the Zionsville Nature Center’s turtles, snakes, and other educational animals. Participation limited to one date.
Ages: 6–14
Fee: $6/resident, $8/nonresident
Saturday, January 4, 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Saturday, February 8, 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Jr Ecologist Homeschool Club REG
Join a Naturalist with the Zionsville Nature Center in this exciting homeschool club series! Each month, we will go into depths of different nature topics in a short lesson followed by hands-on activities. Afterwards, each child will get to take home a packet to further explore the topic of the month! This is a drop-off program, but parents and families are welcome to stay nearby.
Ages: 7-12
Fee: $3/resident, $4/nonresident
PREDATOR VS PREY
Tuesday, December 17, 10:00–11:30 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
HERPETOLOGY
Tuesday, January 14, 10:00–11:30 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
LIFE CYCLES
Tuesday , February 11, 10:00–11:30 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Lil’ Naturalist Homeschool Club REG
Learn what it means to be a Naturalist with Zionsville Nature Center in this exciting homeschool club series! Each month, we will discover new nature topics in a short lesson followed by fun, hands-on activities. Afterwards, each child will get to take home a packet to further explore the topic of the month! Parents/adults are required to stay.
Ages: 4-6
Fee: $3/resident, $4/nonresident
PREDATOR VS PREY
Wednesday, December 18, 10:00–11:00 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS
Wednesday, January 15, 10:00–11:00 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
LIFE CYCLES
Wednesday, February 12, 10:00–11:00 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Environmental Science
Merit Badge Workshop REG
Calling all Boy Scouts! Join us for our Environmental Science Merit Badge Workshop! We will get you started by covering several of the requirements, and our Naturalist staff (certified Merit Badge Counselors) will be available to work with you and sign off on your Blue Card as you complete the remaining requirements. The workshop will be both indoors and outdoors, so dress for the weather. Workshop will cover most aspects of Environmental Science Merit Badge Requirements 1, 2, 3a, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3g, and 6.
Saturday, February 22, 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Ages: 10–17
Fee: $6/residents, $8/nonresidents
PEEPs REG
Welcome to our preschool environmental education program series (PEEPs)! This monthly program offers an opportunity for preschool-aged kids to discover nature through hands-on, educational activities. PEEPs will encourage outdoor exploration that supports child development, grows independence and confidence, and helps children build a relationship with the natural world. Younger siblings are welcome to attend, but activities will be geared towards ages 4–6. Parents/adults are required to stay.
Ages: 4–6 years
$3/residents, $4/nonresidents
BIRDS
Thursday, December 5, 9:30–11:00 am
Turkey Foot Nature Park, 4795 Turkeyfoot Ave
ANIMAL CLUES
Thursday, January 16, 9:30–11:00 am
Starkey Nature Park, 667 Sugarbush Drive
SHAPES IN NATURE
Thursday, February 6, 9:30–11:00 am
Creekside Nature Park, 11001 E Sycamore Street
Toddler Trek REG
Spending time outdoors has numerous benefits for a child’s physical and emotional well-being. During our Toddler Treks we will meet at different Zionsville parks to play, explore, and watch the seasons change. Older siblings are welcome to attend, but activities will be geared towards ages 3 and under. Dress for the weather and be prepared to get moving!
Ages: 3 and under
Fee: $3/resident, $4/nonresident
STICKS
Friday, December 6, 10:00–11:00 am
Turkey Foot Nature Park, 4795 Turkeyfoot Ave
ANIMAL TRACKS
Friday, January 10, 10:00–11:00 am
Overley-Worman Park, 6040 Godello Circle
VALENTINE’S DAY
Friday, February 14, 10:00–11:00 am
Turkey Foot Nature Park, 4795 Turkeyfoot Ave
Winter STEAM Camp REG
What happens when snow melts? Why are snowflakes so perfectly symmetrical? How does frost form? Become a winter STEAM expert while we ask big, conduct exciting hands-on experiments, and use our creativity to build, play, and explore the wonders of winter.
Friday, January 3, 9:00 am–12:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Ages: 6–12
Fee: $24/resident, $27/ nonresident
Zionsville Nature Center Ornaments
The animals in the nature center love decorating for the holidays! Stop by in December to color your own ornament and help them finish decorating their tree. Ornaments are $1 each (cash) and all proceeds go to the long-term care of our animal ambassadors!
December 3–19 (Tuesday–Thursdays), 10:00 am–4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
FAMILY ACTIVITIES
Art in Nature REG
Each of our Art in Nature programs start off on an easy hike with a Naturalist to explore one of our parks and to collect materials. Afterwards, create your own masterpiece with different mediums such as leaves, mud, pinecones, and so much more!
Fee: $3/resident, $4/resident
NATURE ORNAMENTS
Thursday, December 12, 1:00–2:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
PINECONE ANIMALS
Wednesday, January 29, 11:00 am–12:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
NATURE BOOKMARKS
Thursday, February 27, 3:00–4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Cookies and Canvas REG
Join us for a delightful winter break experience at Cookies and Canvas! This fun-filled program is perfect for kids, adults, and families looking to unleash their creativity while enjoying tasty treats. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, this event encourages everyone to express their creativity. All materials will be provided, so just bring your enthusiasm and a desire to have fun! Work together or create your own, price is per canvas!
Saturday, December 28, 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th St
Ages: 8 +
Fee: $15/resident, $20/nonresident
Discover Your Backyard
The Trailhopper is the newest mobile outreach vehicle to join the Zionsville Parks and Recreation Department. Join us each month as we visit one of our local parks and discover what’s happening in our backyard with hands-on activities and adventures. Drop-in and stay as long as you’d like!
BIRDS
Friday, December 27, 1:00–3:00 pm
Starkey Nature Park, 667 Sugarbush Drive
TRACKS
Thursday, January 2, 2:00–4:00 pm
Heritage Trail Park, 4050 S 875 E
WEATHER
Friday, February 21, 1:00–3:00 pm
Mulberry Fields, 9645 Whitestown Road
Family Nature Club REG
Take the stress out of spending time outside by joining our family nature club! Each month we will explore a different park in Zionsville through imagination, observation, and outdoor play. Families, caregivers, and children of all ages are welcome.
TRACKING WILDLIFE
Tuesday, December 10, 4:00–5:00 pm
Starkey Nature Park, 667 Sugarbush Drive
SCAVENGER HUNT!
Tuesday, January 21, 4:00–5:00 pm
Overley-Worman Park, 6040 Godello Circle
WINTER ADAPTATIONS
Thursday, February 20, 4:00–5:00 pm
Elm Street Green, 165 N Elm Street
Hibernation Pajama Party REG
Grab your pajamas and join us for a cozy hibernation pajama party! We’ll celebrate Groundhog Day and discover the wonders of hibernation through engaging, hands-on activities. Learn about the creatures that sleep through winter while having fun in your favorite comfy clothes!
Tuesday, February 4, 3:00–4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Illuminate the Night: Luminary Workshop
Join us for creativity and connection during our dropin luminary workshop. Participants will craft their own unique luminary that will be displayed during our Illuminate the Night Luminary Walk. Luminary Workshop will also take place during the Hussey Mayfield Memorial Public Library International Fair.
Friday, January 3 & Saturday, January 4, 1:00–3:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Illuminate the Night: Luminary Walk
Bundle up and gather your family and friends. As dusk falls, embark on a magical walk through Overley-Worman park, the path illuminated by hundreds of handcrafted, unique luminaries. This peaceful stroll celebrates creativity and community, bringing us together under the stars.
Saturday, January 4, 6:00–8:00 pm Overley-Worman Park, 6040 Godello Circle
Indiana’s State Bird REG
On this day 208 years ago, Indiana became a state! In celebration, join a naturalist from Zionsville Nature Center to learn about Indiana’s state bird, the Northern Cardinal! Learn about all the cool things about Cardinals as well as some cool history of Indiana.
Wednesday, December 11, 11:00 am–12:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Luminary Walk
Bundle up and gather your family and friends – even the four-legged ones – and experience winter’s beauty by candlelight as the trail around the park glows with the lights from hundreds of luminaries.
Tuesday, December 17, 6:00–8:00 pm
Elm Street Green, 165 N Elm Street
Meet the Animals
Stop by the Zionsville Nature Center twice a month for an exciting chance to meet and learn about our resident reptiles and amphibians. Discover the unique traits of these fascinating creatures as they get enrichment outside of their homes. No reservations needed—just drop in and experience the adventure!
Thursday, December 12, 10:00–10:30 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Tuesday, December 17, 3:30 – 4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Thursday, January 9, 10:00–10:30 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Tuesday, January 21, 3:30–4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Thursday, February 13, 10:00–10:30 am
Zionsville Nature Center 250 N 5th Street
Tuesday, February 18, 3:30–4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Mighty Muskrats REG
Did you know muskrats are experts at surviving winter?
Join us to learn all about these mighty creatures, how they build their cozy winter homes, and what adaptations help them endure the cold. Afterward, we’ll head out for a hike to search for their homes in the wild.
Saturday, January 18, 10:00–11:00 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
So, You Want a Pet Reptile…REG
Thinking about adding a new pet to your household?
A reptile can make a great pet… but some can also make for very challenging pets. Join us to learn what you need to consider before bringing home a new pet reptile, including daily care, costs, potential issues, and benefits. We will also meet some of Zionsville Nature Center’s resident animals to see their set up and needs.
Wednesday, December 11, 6:00–7:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Ages: 8+
Valentine Luminary Walk
Join us this Valentine’s for an enchanting evening under the stars, where you can stroll along the park path lined with hundreds of luminaries. Perfect for couples, families, and friends, the walk invites you to celebrate love in all its forms, and create unforgettable memories.
Friday, February 14, 6:00–8:00 pm
Creekside Nature Park, 11001 E Sycamore Street
Winter Science REG
Discover the wonders of winter through the magic of science! Join us for fun-filled program with hands-on experiments exploring snowflakes, ice, and all the amazing things winter has to offer. Spark your curiosity and see the coldest season in a whole new way!
Thursday, December 19, 3:00–4:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Ages: 3+
Fee: $3/resident, $4/nonresident
Winter Solstice Campfire & Night Hike REG
Celebrate the winter solstice with an enchanting evening by the campfire and a candlelit night hike. Toast marshmallows, look for nocturnal wildlife, and welcome the start of a new season. It’s the perfect way to experience the shortest night of the year!
Friday, December 20, 6:00–7:00 pm
Overley-Worman Park, 6040 Godello Circle
Woodpecker Walk REG
Indiana is home to seven species of woodpeckers and the winter is a great time to spot them. Let’s hike through the park to look for woodpeckers, listen for their calls, and spot their handiwork in the trees.
Saturday, January 25, 10:00–11:00 am
Turkey Foot Nature Park, 4795 Turkeyfoot Ave
TEEN/ADULT ACTIVITIES
Introduction to Backyard Maple Sugaring REG
Are you interested in making your own maple syrup? You can get started in your own yard with just a few supplies! Join Naturalist and sugar maker, Rachel Felling, for this workshop to learn the basics of backyard maple syrup production. We will discuss tree selection, tapping protocols, sap collection, and cooking methods. We will also share resources for information and supplies, as well as go over questions and troubleshooting. After this workshop, you’ll be ready to make your own maple syrup!
Wednesday, January 15, 6:00–7:30 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Ages: 18+
Coffee and Canvas: Valentine’s Day REG
Creativity, Coffee, and Conversation — what else could you need on a relaxing Saturday morning? Bring a friend and get in touch with your artistic side at the Zionsville Nature Center. Join us for some bird-friendly coffee, a fun atmosphere, and step-by-step instruction to create your very own beautiful nature painting. Whether you come to catch up with some of your oldest friends or mingle with new ones, this Coffee and Canvas is a great way to get away from the daily hustle and treat yourself. A little nervous to paint? Don’t worry! No talent or experience is necessary. Program fees cover all art supplies and treats (coffee, other breakfast beverages, pastries, paint, brushes, and canvas).
Saturday, February 15, 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Fee: $15/resident, $20/nonresident
Ages: 16+
Hike with a Naturalist REG
Have you ever had a question about what an animal eats or what species of plant is in your backyard? Join a naturalist on an exciting hike to learn all about what is growing around us. Use this time to ask questions and learn.
Thursday, January 23, 5:00–6:00 pm
Overley-Worman Park, 6040 Godello Circle
Indiana Master Naturalist REG
The Indiana Master Naturalist (IMN) program provides hands-on opportunities to learn about Indiana’s natural resources. Adult learners will gain an understanding of Indiana’s plants, waters, soils, wildlife, and other topics. The program provides a way for you to share knowledge, along with your life experiences, through volunteer services. The program includes 24 hours of class time. To receive IMN certificate and pin 24 hours of volunteering must be completed within one year of taking the class.
• The program includes 24 hours of class time.
• To receive IMN certificate and pin, 24 hours of volunteering must be completed. Volunteer opportunities will be available during the course.
• 80% of the class hours must be attended to receive credit.
February 6, 20, March 6, 20, April 17, 24, May 1 and 15
5:00–8:00 pm
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Ages: 18+
Fee: $130
Leave No Trace Workshop REG
Since 2020 more people are getting out into our parks and natural areas. In this Leave No Trace workshop you will learn about the seven principles of Leave No Trace that will help you lessen your impact to our natural areas so that generations that follow can also enjoy them. This workshop is a mixture of discussion and hands on activities, so be prepared to get up and moving. Suitable for adults and children over the age of 8. Children under the age of 16 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Facilitated by Don Schafer, Program Support and Advisor at Camptown.
Saturday, January 11, 10:00–11:00 am
Zionsville Nature Center, 250 N 5th Street
Ages: 8+
Senior Nature Walks REG
Join Zionsville Parks and Recreation for this engaging Senior Nature Walks series! Each month, we’ll explore an accessible Zionsville park and take a leisurely walk to discover what’s happening in nature. Enjoy the benefits of fresh air and staying active – all while connecting with the beauty of the outdoors and our community. Friday, February 28, 10:00–11:00 am Overley-Worman Park, 6040 Godello Circle
GO OFF-LEASH AT HERITAGE TRAIL DOG PARK
The Heritage Trail Dog Park is approximately 3.5 acres and has separate areas for small and large dogs. Amenities on-site include benches, shade areas, pet waste stations, a water fountain with a dog bowl attachment, picnic shelter, paved walking trails, and playgrounds. Dog park hours are from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year.
NATURALIST’S NOTES
Life Under the Snow by Siera Stuart, Naturalist
As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, we witness nature undergo dramatic changes. The trees lose their leaves, animals become less active, and perhaps the most striking change is the arrival of snow. The first snowfall blankets the landscape and creates a quiet and almost magical scene. It’s easy to assume that winter marks a time of dormancy for most wildlife with animals either hibernating or migrating to warmer places, waiting for spring’s thaw. While some creatures do take this approach, others remain surprisingly active, hidden beneath the snow in a secret world known as the subnivean zone.
The subnivean zone is the space between the snow and the ground, where some small animals live out the cold months. The snow acts as a protective blanket, allowing these creatures to freely hunt, forage, and build elaborate tunnel systems. This hidden layer is a crucial refuge from winter’s harshest elements. When the snow reaches a depth of at least six inches, it acts as an insulator, maintaining temperatures around 32-degree Fahrenheit, regardless of how cold the air above may be.
For creatures like mice, voles, and shrews, the subnivean zone is a vital lifeline. These small mammals, which would otherwise stand out against a snowcovered landscape and become an easy target for hungry predators, create intricate networks of tunnels beneath the snow. These tunnels are more than just safe passageways. Voles, for example, construct complete living quarters in the subnivean zone, with specific chambers for eating and sleeping. The snow not only protects and insulates them from the cold but also makes food more accessible as seeds, roots, and bark become easier to gather beneath the snow’s cover.
However, the subnivean zone is not without its dangers. Everyone must eat – especially in the winter. Predators have adapted to hunt within these snowy shelters. Weasels, with their slim bodies, navigate through the network of tunnels and hunt unsuspecting prey. Shrews are also relentless predators and known for eating just about anything, even other shrews. They are constantly chasing down their next meal. Meanwhile, predators above the snow are just as skilled at hunting. Owls, foxes, and coyotes will listen intently for the slightest sound of movement under the snow. They use their keen hearing to pinpoint the exact location of their prey. One wrong movement or loud sound can lead to a swift pounce and capture.
Despite these dangers, the subnivean zone is a remarkable place of survival and adaptation. It’s an amazing example of nature’s resilience, allowing life to thrive even in the depths of winter. Although the subnivean zone often goes unnoticed by human eyes, subtle signs of its existence can be spotted during the season. On a winter walk through snow, you might notice tiny tracks leading to small holes, which are entrances to the hidden tunnels below. These clues offer a glimpse into the lives of the creatures who continue their life just beneath our feet. Next time you venture out into the snow, take a moment to imagine the intricate, bustling world below. A world of tunnels, nests, and survival happening just out of sight.
BECOME A NATURE DETECTIVE FOR A DAY
FAMILY NATURE CLUB: TRACKING WILDLIFE
Tuesday, December 10, 4:00–5:00 pm
Starkey Nature Park, 667 Sugarbush Drive
Join us as we unravel the mystery of “Who made those tracks?” Use your observation skills to identify animal tracks, scat, and other wildlife signs while exploring the outdoors.
California Scrub-Jay Jim’s Birdacious® Bark Butter®
Zionsville parks are ideal locations for parties, meetings, reunions, seminars, weddings or picnics. Reservable shelters allow for the exclusive use of park shelters for a prearranged period. Shelter reservation applications may be submitted on or after January 1 of each year and may not extend beyond the current calendar year.
RATES
Resident rate
Half day: $50 / Full day: $100
Non-resident rate
Half day: $65 / Full day: $130
Half-days are defined by these two shifts
AM shift: 7:00 am–2:00 pm / PM shift: 3:00–10:00 pm
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• Alcoholic beverages are not permitted. This ordinance is strictly enforced.
• Permission for amplified sound may be revoked at any time if deemed disruptive.
• User groups may not sell food, beverages, or any items in the park. If this reservation is part of a fundraiser for a local non-profit, or fundraising for any other purpose, please attach a detailed proposal to online application. Fundraising activities require Park Board approval in advance. The Zionsville Board of Parks and Recreation meets on the second Wednesday of each month, except holidays.
• At the end of the reserved period, the reservation holder must leave the designated space in the same condition as found. Town staff will inspect shelters at the end of the reserved period or at the beginning of the following day. Reservation holders are responsible for all damages to park property and/or trash disposal. A $50 clean-up fee may be charged for any conditions requiring additional staff time to clean.
• Refunds may be approved if received one week prior to the reservation date. A $10 processing fee will be deducted from all refunds.
• If others will not yield your reserved area when requested, please contact Zionsville Police Department at the non-emergency number: 317-873-5967.
ELM STREET GREEN PAVILION
165 N Elm Street
• four picnic tables
• one grill
• (no on-site public restrooms— the nearest public restroom is located at Lions Park)
LINCOLN PARK GAZEBO
41 S 2nd Street
• two picnic tables
• water fountain
• hose bib and electrical outlets available
• (no nearby public restrooms)
MULBERRY FIELDS SHELTER A
9645 Whitestown Road
• five moveable picnic tables
• overhead lighting
• electric outlet
• water station
• on-site public restrooms
MULBERRY FIELDS SHELTER B
9645 Whitestown Road
• four moveable picnic tables
• one grill
• overhead lighting
• electric outlet
• water station
• on-site public restrooms
MULBERRY FIELDS SHELTER C
9645 Whitestown Road
• five moveable picnic tables
• one grill
• overhead lighting
• electric outlet
• proximity to public restrooms and splash pad
HERITAGE TRAIL PARK
4050 S 875 E
• four secured picnic tables
• one grill
• overhead lighting
• electric outlet
• water station
• on-site port-o-john
OVERLEY-WORMAN PARK SHELTERS A & B
6040 Godello Circle (same features at both shelters)
• four moveable picnic tables
• one grill
• overhead lighting
• electric outlet
• nearby water station
• on-site port-o-john
Create a unique nature-themed birthday party experience for your child to celebrate their special day! Choose a party based on their interests and the season. Children will spend time discovering the outdoors through observation, exploration, and hands-on activities. There is also plenty to do indoors if the weather is inclement. Birthday parties are available for children ages 4+.
