AVWS Nature Trail System

Nature Trails Presently there are two Nature trail systems completed. The purpose of the trails is to compliment the educational program at the Sanctuary. Walking the trails with Tony, visitors are taught to appreciate the flora and fauna which abound along the route and to always be on the lookout for interesting creatures and growing things. The nature trails were constructed in 2009 by Eskakwa Eco-Adventure supervised by Tony Grant. Hap Wilson of Eskakwa Eco-Adventure says of the trails at Aspen Valley “the landscape is superb it has the perfect variety of Shield topography, rock ridges, interspersed with wildlife-rich fenland peat flats, beaver ponds and old growth forest stands” which basically means that the trails are great! The, three individual themed nature trail systems allow hikers a total of twenty kilometres of back country trails to experience a plethora of natural wonders on their excursions. There are two observation lookout decks that afford the most spectacular views of the Sanctuary and the surrounding land. There are camouflaged wildlife viewing platforms, boardwalks and interpretative signs. The nature trails will be continuously upgraded and maintained to ensure safety and sustainability. So while the animals may be sleeping or tucked safely away in the barn for the winter, we shall still be trekking through the snow in snowshoes and cross country skis, so come and join us or in the spring come and see the Sanctuary and the land wake up from its winter’s nap. Then again in the summer and autumn, enjoy the lush greens and then red and golden hues of the changing leaves. The AVWS Nature Trails while groomed and maintained are very natural. Please be sure to wear appropriate shoes/boots and weather appropriate garments to ensure a pleasant experience. The nature trails cover various types of terrain including rock, marsh and meadows. For the mutual safety of our trail users and AVWS, we require all Nature Trail users to report to the main office to sign in prior to setting out on a walk and then report to the Sanctuary office to sign out prior to departure from the Sanctuary . PLEASE ALSO NOTE AND OBEY ALL SIGNS POSTED. CLICK HERE to download an Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Trail Map pdf.