Want a free outdoor activity near Vail that does not depend on a ski lift? Walking Mountains Science Center is offering guided winter nature walks at its Avon campus, starting Thursday, November 12. The hourlong outing explores mountain ecology and how animals adapt to winter. It is a walk first; participants may use snowshoes if snow is deep enough.
When are the winter nature walks in Avon?
The November 12 walk is listed for 2 p.m. at Walking Mountains’ Avon campus, 318 Walking Mountains Lane. The organization’s upcoming-events list also shows winter nature walks on November 14 and 19. Check each event listing for its start time and registration availability before making plans. The program is free, but use the organizer’s registration link to secure a place.
Is this a snowshoe trip?
It depends on trail conditions. Walking Mountains describes about one-third of a mile of walking or snowshoeing over an hour, with stops to learn along the way. The mostly flat dirt trail has some small hills and may have snow or ice. If snow depth allows, the group may use snowshoes; the center says it provides snowshoes and trekking poles. Do not plan on snowshoeing as a guarantee for a particular date.
What should you bring?
Dress for an hour outdoors in cold weather. The organizer recommends sun protection and comfortable walking shoes. It says the program is family-friendly and suitable for most physical abilities, but strollers do not work well on the trails and pets are not permitted. For accommodation questions, call 970-827-9725 at least 72 hours before the scheduled program.
How do you register for Avon winter nature walks?
Open the Walking Mountains event listing and follow its registration link. Check the events calendar for later dates or changes. For more ideas beyond skiing, see our Vail Valley winter activities guide.
Details checked November 8, 2026. Dates and available places may change. Featured image is an AI-generated editorial illustration, not a photograph of the actual trail or its current conditions.
