Unseasonal Winter Weather Impacts Hartley Nature Center

DULUTH, Minn.– The winter programs are looking a little different this year for Hartley Nature Center, but they have several ways to overcome this.

Following last year’s lack of winter, this year’s season is trailing behind with a different problem.
Over the course of several weeks, many of the trails at Hartley Nature Center have developed a thick coat of ice.

Some of the programs had to be cancelled last year, and that is becoming a possibility for this year.
For the current icy situation Hartley is facing, the nature center has a handful of solutions.

“Even when the trails are icy there are other opportunities for recreation. We do rent what are called “Ice Bug Boots.” They’re studded boots that allow people to walk on the ice without slipping. And we do have studded tires on the fat tire bikes. And so, we’re still able to get out and do some things, but it’s certainly not ideal when you have the lack of snow and the ice that we do,” explained Matt Willey, the Recreation & Stewardship Manager at Hartley Nature Center.

For the long-term little Hartley Nature Center users, they know how to work around the weather.

“Our kiddos in the preschool program and in the after-school nature club, and field trips make the most of every day no matter the weather. So, if it’s icy on the trails, they’re figuring out how to slide like penguins. They’re practicing their balance and coordination and developing strength. Trying to walk on the icy ground,” said Kaitlin Erpestad, the Preschool Director at Hartley Nature Center.

On January 25th, Hartley will be hosting one of their biggest fundraisers of the year.
The recreation event involves skiing, biking, and snowshoeing by candlelight.
New this year, they’re featuring a catered dinner by New Scenic Cafe.