Discover Nature Events

Artwork on display in lobby.

Explore and learn about the unique and diverse ecosystems of Valley View Glades Natural Area with an MDC naturalist. Valley View Glades Trail is a marked loop trail that runs 2.6 miles through the glade and an oak-hickory forest. Terrain is moderate and has several uphill and downhill stretches. Trail is unpaved and not ADA accessible. Please dress for the weather. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots, water, a hat, and sunscreen, socks that cover the ankles, and bug spray are recommended. Trekking poles would be useful, and extra trekking poles will be available to use if desired. There are no restrooms at the trailhead, and closest public restrooms are in the town of Hillsboro about 10 minutes away. For the comfort and safety of all participants, dogs will not be welcome on this guided hike.

Children are welcome at guardian’s discretion. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by trusted adult.

Please register each person attending separately.

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/get-involved (ages 15+) Get your hands dirty and learn how to ID and manage summer weeds in your native garden. Enjoy a naturalist-led garden tour following the end of the session. All experience levels are welcome. Contact cydney@deeprootskc.org for more information.

This is your chance to meet a real snake at Powder Valley. Join us in the lobby to learn about the role snakes play in Missouri and our everyday lives.

Registration required by visiting https://www.mymcpl.org/events/93085/hummingbirds-101-zoom (all ages) The ruby-throated hummingbird is one of Missouri's most intriguing birds! Would you like to learn about these unique birds and how to attract them to your yard or garden? Join us as we learn about the native plants, sweet nectar and insects loved by this tiny creature, also known as nature's helicopter! This program is hosted by Mid Continent Library.

Fly in to learn how and why birds migrate to and from Missouri every spring. Conservation Kids is designed for kids ages 7–12 and their adult caregivers. Other aged siblings are welcome to attend as families will do activities together.

Explore trees from the inside out; how does a tree grow and how does it make food? We’ll examine the anatomy of trees and how they produce food. Then we will go outside to meet the trees and monitor them for their health.

Explore trees from the inside out; how does a tree grow and how does it make food? We’ll examine the anatomy of trees and how they produce food. Then we will go outside to meet the trees and monitor them for their health.

Join Naturalist Morgan Wyatt to discover which hummingbirds visit Missouri, their habits, which plants attract them, and the best ways to maintain hummingbird feeders. Naturalist Notes is a regular program where a naturalist showcases one of their favorite nature topics. Please include a valid email address when you register so we can send you a virtual program link. This program will not be recorded. All ages welcome but this program is designed for ages 10 and up.

Do your little ones enjoy being in nature? Appreciate the natural world through a story, songs, movement, and play as you sit under the canopy for a “nature” adventure. Come see the topic we are exploring this month. Younger children and siblings are welcome. Meet the naturalist at the West End Picnic Site. Please dress for the weather.