Little River Canyon National Preserve

Canyon Birds - Birding Hike

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Start your morning with the birds of Little River Canyon! Join a park ranger for a leisurely birding hike around Beaver Pond as we explore one of the preserve's best birdwatching locations. Using the free Merlin Bird ID app, we'll learn to identify birds by both their songs and their appearance while discovering the fascinating lives of the canyon's feathered residents.</p> <p>Whether you're an experienced birder or just curious about the birds you hear every day, this family-friendly program is a fun introduction to birdwatching. Along the way, we'll see how many species we can identify together and share tips for finding and recognizing birds long after the hike is over. </p> <p>Meeting Location: Beaver Pond Trail Parking Area</p> <p>What to Bring:</p> <ul> <li>Smartphone with the free Merlin Bird ID app downloaded (recommended)</li> <li>Binoculars (if you have them) Limited binoculars will be provided.</li> <li>Water</li> <li>Comfortable walking shoes</li> <li>Weather-appropriate clothing</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>Program Details:</p> <ul> <li>Free and open to all ages</li> <li>Easy, leisurely hike on relatively flat terrain</li> <li>Approximately 2 miles round trip</li> <li>No prior birding experience necessary</li> </ul> <p>Come discover why early morning is one of the best times to experience the wildlife of Little River Canyon!</p>

Lokalizacja: Meeting Location: Beaver Pond Trail Parking Area

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Watercolor at Lynn Overlook

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Slow down and experience the beauty of Little River Canyon through watercolor! Join a park ranger for a relaxing afternoon of painting at one of the preserve's most scenic overlooks. We'll take inspiration from the sweeping canyon views, summer foliage, and dramatic cliffs as you get the chance to paint with watercolor in an unforgettable outdoor setting.</p> <p>Whether you're painting for the first time or have years of experience, this program is designed to help you observe nature more closely while creating a unique work of art to take home.</p> <p>What to Bring:</p> <ul> <li>Water</li> <li>A camp chair or small blanket (optional)</li> <li>Sun protection</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>All painting supplies will be provided. No artistic experience is necessary.</p>

Lokalizacja: Lynn Overlook on HWY 176

Little River Canyon National Preserve

World Lizard Day Exhibit in the Canyon Center

<p><span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Celebrate World Lizard Day by discovering the fascinating lizards that call Little River Canyon home! Stop by this free, interactive exhibit to learn about the preserve's native lizard species, their unique adaptations, and the important role they play in the canyon's ecosystem. Then go out and try to find some! This is a drop-in exhibit—visit anytime during the day</span></p>

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Bike With a Ranger

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Experience Little River Canyon from the seat of your bicycle! Join a park ranger for a leisurely guided ride along the Little River Canyon Scenic Drive, stopping at several of the park's most breathtaking overlooks to discover the stories behind the landscape.</p> <p>Along the route, we'll pause to explore the canyon's geology, wildlife, history, and the unique river that flows atop Lookout Mountain. Learn how this remarkable landscape was formed, discover the plants and animals that call it home, and hear fascinating stories that bring the preserve to life.</p> <p>This is a recreational ride designed to encourage visitors to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and experience the park from a new perspective. There will be plenty of opportunities to stop for photographs, ask questions, and take in the spectacular views.</p> <p>Meeting Location: Little River Canyon Center 8:00–11:00 AM</p> <p> </p> <p>What to Bring:</p> <ul> <li>A bicycle in good working condition</li> <li>Helmet (required)</li> <li>Water</li> <li>Snacks</li> <li>Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes</li> <li>Sunscreen</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>Program Details:</p> <ul> <li>Free and open to ages 12 and up (participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult)</li> <li>Approximately 8-10 miles round trip</li> <li>Moderate ride with rolling hills on paved roads</li> <li>Frequent stops for interpretation and rest</li> <li>Participants should be comfortable riding on paved roads shared with vehicle traffic</li> </ul> <p>Come discover why the journey can be just as memorable as the destination as we explore one of Alabama's most scenic drives by bike!</p>

Lokalizacja: Meeting Location: Little River Canyon Center

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Nature Scavenger Hunt and River Habitat Talk at Blue Hole

<div class="xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs">Meet at Blue Hole- limited parking to 10 cars (we will relocate the event if we have a lot of participates).</div> <div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s"> </div> <div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s">Discover the incredible diversity of life along the Little River during this hands-on Mini BioBlitz! We'll take a short hike upstream from Blue Hole, documenting the plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms we encounter while learning about the unique river habitat that supports them. Along the way, we'll explore how flowing water shapes this ecosystem and discuss the fascinating relationships between its native flora and fauna.</div> <div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s"> </div> <div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s">What to expect:</div> <div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s">To reach our exploration area, participants should be prepared to cross a shallow section of the river. Wear sandals or shoes you don't mind getting wet (or be prepared to take them off to get across). Bring water, wear clothing suitable for getting your feet wet, and come ready to slow down, observe closely, and discover the hidden life of Little River Canyon! </div>

Lokalizacja: Blue Hole on hwy 35

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Run With a Ranger at Canyon View Overlook

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Join a park ranger in the Preserve with the Little River Running Club! Come running with us! Whether you simply want to stay active, be outside, or are looking for a fun way to experience the preserve, runners of all paces are welcome.</p> <p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Meeting Location: Canyon View Overlook</p> <p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">We'll run along the paved scenic drive in the cool of the morning before the world wakes up.</p> <p>Please bring:</p> <p>Water</p> <p>Running shoes</p> <p>Comfortable running clothes</p> <p> </p> <p>Come enjoy the beauty of Little River Canyon, meet fellow runners, and start your morning in a National Preserve!</p>

Lokalizacja: Canyon View Overlook on hwy 176

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Nocturnal Ranger Hike

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Experience Little River Canyon after the sun goes down! Join a park ranger for an evening hike as we discover the sights and sounds of the canyon's nocturnal world. As darkness settles over the preserve, we'll use our senses to explore a side of the park that many visitors never experience.</p> <p>Along the trail, we'll listen for owls, frogs, katydids, and other nighttime wildlife while learning how animals have adapted to life in the dark. We will go mothing and will have a chance to use a few red lights to see if we can spot animals off trail. We'll discuss the importance of natural darkness, explore how nocturnal creatures navigate and hunt, and discover why the canyon comes alive after sunset.</p> <p>This is a slow-paced hike focused on observation and discovery, with frequent stops to listen, look, and experience the night.</p> <p>Meeting Location: Little River Canyon Visitor Center</p> <p>What to Bring:</p> <ul> <li>Flashlight or headlamp with a red-light setting (We will provide hand-held red lights as well)</li> <li>Comfortable walking shoes</li> <li>Water</li> <li>Insect repellent</li> <li>Weather-appropriate clothing</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>Program Details:</p> <ul> <li>Free and open to all ages (children must be accompanied by an adult)</li> <li>Easy hike on established trails</li> <li>Approximately 1–1.5 miles round trip</li> <li>Red lights are encouraged to help preserve night vision and reduce disturbance to wildlife</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>Step into the canyon after dark and discover a world of sounds, shadows, and wildlife that most visitors never get the chance to experience.</p>

Lokalizacja: Meet at the Little River Canyon Visitor Center

Little River Canyon National Preserve

110th National Park Birthday Fee Free Day @ Canyon Mouth - Botany Bingo Hike

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Meet at Canyon Mouth Park (Free today!)</p> <p>Celebrate the 110th Birthday of the National Park Service with a fun, free, family-friendly hike through one of Little River Canyon's most botanically diverse areas! Join a park ranger as we explore the trails at Canyon Mouth Park, discovering the incredible variety of trees, wildflowers, ferns, vines, fungi, and other native plants that make this preserve so unique.</p> <p>Along the way, participants will receive a Botany Bingo card featuring common plants and natural features found in the park. As we hike, see how many you can find while learning how to identify native species, recognize plant adaptations, and understand the important role plants play in the canyon's ecosystem. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or simply enjoy being outdoors, Botany Bingo is a fun way to sharpen your observation skills and experience the park in a whole new way.</p> <p>This special program celebrates over a century of the National Park Service's mission to preserve America's natural and cultural treasures for future generations.</p> <p>Meeting Location: Canyon Mouth Park</p> <p>What to Bring:</p> <ul> <li>Water</li> <li>Comfortable walking shoes</li> <li>Sun protection</li> <li>Insect repellent</li> <li>Smartphone or camera (optional)</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>Program Details:</p> <ul> <li>Free and open to all ages</li> <li>Easy to moderate hike</li> <li>Approximately 1.5–2 miles round trip</li> <li>Bingo cards and pencils provided</li> <li>No prior botanical knowledge necessary</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>Come celebrate the National Park Service's 110th birthday by exploring the incredible plant diversity of Little River Canyon and seeing how many species you can discover!</p>

Lokalizacja: Canyon Mouth Park

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Run With a Ranger

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Join a park ranger in the morning with the Little River Running Club! Come get some fresh air and exercise outside in a National Preserve for a change of pace! Whether you are training for any races, want to stay active, be outside, find community, or simply looking for a fun way to experience the preserve, all runners and walkers welcome!</p> <p>Meeting Location: Little River Canyon Center</p> <p>We'll run along a short trail that will connect us to a paved scenic road in the Preserve.</p> <p>Please bring:</p> <p>Water</p> <p>Running shoes</p> <p>Comfortable running clothes</p> <p>Come enjoy the beauty of Little River Canyon, meet fellow runners, and start your morning in a National Preserve!</p>

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Watercolor Postcard Painting

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Meet at Little River Canyon Center </p> <p>Join a park ranger for a relaxing day of watercolor postcard painting overlooking the canyon. </p> <p>Participants will create their own postcard inspired by the landscapes, plants, wildlife, and scenic views of Little River Canyon. No painting experience is necessary, and all supplies will be provided.</p> <p>Take your finished postcard home or send it to a friend as a handmade reminder of your visit to one of Alabama's most beautiful places.</p>

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Nature Journaling -A Beginners Guide to Nature Journalling

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Meet at the Little River Canyon Center</p> <p>Slow down, look closer, and discover the beauty of Little River Canyon through the practice of nature journaling. Join a park ranger for this beginner-friendly program as we learn how to observe the natural world with curiosity using simple sketches, notes, and questions.</p> <p>You don't have to be an artist or a scientist to keep a nature journal. Through easy drawing exercises and guided observation, you'll learn how to record the colors, shapes, behaviors, and stories of the plants, animals, and landscapes around you. Nature journaling is a wonderful way to strengthen your observation skills, spark curiosity, and create a lasting record of your experiences in the park.</p> <p>We'll begin with a brief introduction at the Little River Canyon Center before spending time outdoors making observations and filling the pages of our journals together.</p> <p>Meeting Location: Little River Canyon Center</p> <p>What to Bring:</p> <ul> <li>A favorite sketchbook or notebook (a limited number will be available if needed)</li> <li>Pencil and eraser</li> <li>Colored pencils or watercolor supplies (optional)</li> <li>Water</li> <li>Comfortable walking shoes</li> </ul> <p>Program Details:</p> <ul> <li>Free and open to all ages (recommended for ages 7 and up)</li> <li>Beginner-friendly—no drawing or writing experience necessary</li> <li>Easy walking with frequent stops</li> <li>All observation prompts and instruction provided</li> </ul> <p>Come discover how slowing down to observe the natural world can deepen your connection to Little River Canyon—one page at a time.</p>

Little River Canyon National Preserve

JUNIOR RANGER CELEBRATION! Mission: Protect the Preserve

<p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Can you save Little River Canyon before time runs out? </p> <p>In this ‘Leave No Trace Adventure’ someone has left behind a series of mistakes from their trip to the Canyon that could harm the preserve—but it's up to you to solve the mystery. Work with your team of wilderness detectives to uncover clues, solve hands-on puzzles, and complete outdoor challenges as you race against the clock to become the #1 Canyon Guardian.</p> <p>Along the way you'll investigate a campsite, identify wildlife clues, pack the perfect backpack,     solve navigation challenges, make Leave No Trace decisions, and discover how small actions can make a big difference in protecting one of Alabama's most spectacular landscapes.</p> <p>This interactive experience combines the excitement of an escape room with outdoor adventure, teamwork, and real-world problem solving. No outdoor experience is necessary—just curiosity and a willingness to explore! </p> <p><em>Program Details</em></p> <p>Recommended Ages: 8 and up</p> <p>Time: 1:00–4:00pm</p> <p>Location: Little River Canyon Center</p> <p>Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. No hiking or specialized outdoor skills are required.</p> <p>Program Length: Approximately 3 hours</p> <p>Group Size: Any! Teams of 3–6 participants will be assigned but individuals are welcome.</p> <p>Cost: Free</p> <p>Accessibility: This program is designed to be accessible for most participants. Please contact the park in advance if you have accessibility questions or accommodation requests. </p> <p>There will be prizes! Badges, stickers, patches—and more!</p> <p><em>What to Bring:</em></p> <ul> <li>Comfortable walking shoes</li> <li>Water bottle</li> <li>Weather-appropriate clothing</li> <li>Your observation and teamwork skills!</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><em>What to Expect:</em></p> <p>Participants will:</p> <ul> <li>Search for clues</li> <li>Solve puzzles</li> <li>Complete hands-on challenges</li> <li>Work together to unlock the final mystery</li> <li>Learn practical outdoor ethics used by hikers, campers, climbers, paddlers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts</li> <li>Earn the title of <em>#1 Canyon Guardian</em> upon successful completion</li> </ul> <p>Advance registration is very much appreciated!</p>