The Swaner EcoCenter is hosting naturalist-led Saturday morning nature walks on the Swaner Preserve to explore wetland science, local plant and animal species, and the history of the preserve. These guided outings, which run from April through November, require participants to pre-register for the 8:30 a.m. sessions, as walk-ins are currently not being accepted.
Guided Educational Outings
According to the Swaner EcoCenter, the nature walks are scheduled every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. during the peak season. Participants can expect an educational experience focused on the local ecosystem, with the potential to observe various wildlife including birds, elk, or nesting sandhill cranes depending on the time of year.
Registration and Capacity
The Swaner EcoCenter has implemented specific registration requirements to manage the tours. All Saturday morning nature walks require pre-registration, and the organization has placed a cap of 15 participants per tour. Registration for these sessions closes at 7:00 a.m. on the day of the scheduled walk.
Terrain and Accessibility
The tours are designed to be appropriate for all ages, though the terrain presents certain physical considerations. While the walks take place on generally flat terrain with a slight uphill grade, participants may encounter tall grass, uneven footing, and wet ground. These conditions may prove challenging for seniors and younger children.
Environmental Protections and Gear
To protect the sensitive wetland habitat, the Swaner EcoCenter does not allow dogs to join the guided tours. Additionally, participants are encouraged to be prepared for changing weather conditions. For spring, summer, and fall outings, the center recommends sturdy shoes or boots, long pants, water, and sun protection, including hats and sunglasses. During the winter months, snowshoeing is utilized for walks on the preserve.
Winter Rentals and Facility Hours
For those participating in winter walks, the EcoCenter offers snowshoe rentals. The rental fee is $2.50 for members and $5.00 for non-members. During the summer season, the EcoCenter remains open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., though the facility will observe early closures on Saturday, August 8, and Wednesday, August 19.
Location and Contact Information
The Swaner EcoCenter is located at 1258 Center Drive in Park City, Utah. For more information regarding the preserve or to reserve a spot for a nature walk, the center can be reached via email at swanerecocenter@usu.edu or by phone at 435-649-1767.
