Outdoor Recreation: Parks

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

URL: http://www.nhnature.org
Address: 23 Science Center Road, Holderness, NH 03245
Phone: (603) 968-7194

The Science Center is a wildlife feast for children of all ages. The 200-acre sanctuary features a .75-mile-long exhibit trail. Visit native black bear, whitetail deer, otters, foxes and birds of prey, including a bald eagle. The animals, most of which have been injured or orphaned and could not survive in the wild, are housed in open pens or cages replicating their natural habitat. The center also has educational displays on loons and other animals that would not do well in captivity. A second trail leads visitors through four major New Hampshire ecosystems — forest, pond, marsh and field — while a third (for the ambitious) climbs to the summit of Mount Fayal for a stunning view of Squam Lake. Ask at the desk about the scheduled naturalist talks throughout the day, or take potluck as you encounter the staff caring for the animals along the trails.Hours: The animals are here year round, but the center is only open May 1 to November 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (last admission is at 3:30 p.m.). Pets are not allowed. Prices: Adults are $13, seniors $11, youths ages 3 to 15 are $9 and children under 2 are free.