Go it alone, or join RI Families in Nature on Monday, January 20th, as we explore this area together.
Tucked behind the renowned Audubon Environmental Education Center (EEC), a state-of-the-art natural history museum and aquarium with interactive exhibits featuring local habitats and fun activities to learn about and enjoy nature, is the McIntosh Wildlife Refuge.
The 28-acre refuge packs quite a punch. You can enjoy a meadow, woods, wetlands, butterfly garden, and a stroller-friendly boardwalk. The boardwalk meanders through fresh and saltwater marshes, across the East Bay Bike Path, to a majestic view of Narragansett Bay.
The ½ mile walk is just right for a cold January day; it’s short but affords many beautiful sites and experiences. Then, for a small admission fee, you can visit the EEC. Admission fees apply for the center, but the hike is free!
We will meet in front of the EEC at 11:00am and begin our hike promptly at 11:15am. Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water and dress for the weather (in layers and with proper hiking boots or sturdy sneakers).
For more information about the McIntosh Wildlife Refuge and EEC, click here.
See you outside!
The Details
Where: McIntosh Wildlife Refuge and Environmental Education Center
Cost: Free for the hike; Admission to the EEC is $6 for adults; $4 for children ages 4-12. Children under 4 and ASRI Members are free.
Bathrooms: yes
Hours: Dawn to dusk for the refuge; EEC is open Wed-Sat 9am-5pm and Sundays 12-5pm from Oct-May as well as holidays and school vacations. From May 1-September, the EEC is open 9am-5pm daily.
For more information, including directions: visit the RI Families in Nature website. http://www.rifamiliesinnature.org
Rhode Island Families in Nature Hike: Join Rhode Island Families in Nature every month for a different hike created by and for families who want to spend more time outdoors, explore Rhode Island’s natural places, and reconnect with and reap the many benefits of nature.
Photo Credits: Jeanine Silversmith
