Wye Marsh offers plenty of winter fun in magical setting (4 photos)

Winter offers a new perspective at the Midland area's Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre.

“The first snowfall and the chill in the air spark an excitement at Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre for all the fun that winter brings,” said Wye Marsh marketing and communications co-ordinator Amanda Swick.

After a snowfall, Swick said keen-eyed visitors can often view animals tracks that “will help you discover who is sharing your yard or trail.”

Swick said that for most part, wildlife becomes more elusive at this time of year as animals preserve their energy in the dropping temperatures.

“Birders can rejoice as the cooler weather makes for great opportunities to view our feathered friends,” Swick said.

“Many birds are attracted to feeders and easier to spot without the forest's foliage. Chickadees, in particular, are very friendly at Wye Marsh and will stop on your hand for some seed and to say 'hello.’ While nature rests, it does not cease to amaze!”

As well, Swick said the centre offers a great location for those looking to try something new this winter.

“Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing can be excellent ways to explore in the snow — allowing you to explore different frosty terrain,” she said, noting the Wye Marsh offers more than 20 kilometres of track-set, cross-country ski trails for visitors to explore with varying loop lengths and difficulties to accommodate anyone from beginner to more experienced skiers.

“Wye Marsh also offers equipment rental for guests who are looking to experience these winter activities for the first time,” Swick said.

Cross-country skis, boots and poles, as well as modern metal-framed snowshoes and traditional wooden-framed snowshoes are available to rent for all ages and sizes to use on the marsh’s trails.

Swick said there’s also the opportunity to join a Wye Marsh outdoor naturalist on a snowshoe eco-tour to further explore in areas that are not otherwise open to the general public.

“After a brief lesson on the art of snowshoeing, you will head out in search of the many mysteries that animal tracks and signs present,” she said, noting participants will then warm up by the fire for a snack break with hot chocolate and tea along the route.

“This unique experience is three hours long, covering roughly four kilometres of woodlands and wildlife.

To preregister, click here. 

All totalled, Wye Marsh has more than 25 kilometres of trails to explore hiking or snowshoeing from winding through the cedar groves into hardwood forest to the floating boardwalk.

Trails are open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and there are also live animal demonstrations on weekends at 1 p.m.

Admission is $12 for adults, $9 for children aged four to 18, $9 for seniors aged 65+ with and children under four and under admitted  free.

Swick added: “In addition to exploring the trails and guided tours, Wye Marsh will also offer a number of workshops and events this winter including winter wild things for kids, a raptor review, and a trail sketching workshop.”

The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is located at 16160 Highway 12 East. For more information, click here.