Helen Schuler Nature Centre
Located on a 200-acre nature preserve in the Oldman River Valley, the Helen Schuler Nature Centre will have you feeling as though you’re many miles from a bustling city, even though downtown Lethbridge is only a stone’s throw away! This sprawling slice of paradise has multiple walking trails, indoor and outdoor exhibits, and the chance to see some of Southern Alberta’s wildlife, including deer, rabbits, porcupines, badgers, and over 100 bird species. The Helen Schuler Nature Centre is the perfect place to escape for a quiet respite in nature.
History
Operated by the City of Lethbridge, the Helen Schuler Nature Centre was opened in 1982 as a community resource to learn about nature. Named after Helen Schuler, an activist and influential force in nature preservation, the centre is run by dedicated staff and volunteers who share her love of nature. Today, the centre’s mission is to support and inspire closer relationships between people and the natural world around us.
Getting There
The Helen Schuler Nature Centre is found west of downtown Lethbridge at 300 Indian Battle Rd S. At 3rd Ave. and Scenic Dr. S., turn west into the coulees (AKA the river valley). When you reach the bottom of the valley, take your first right onto Indian Battle Road. Continue straight, crossing under the High Level Bridge, where you’ll come to the centre’s parking lot.
When to Go
The Helen Schuler Nature Centre is open year-round, and the outdoor trails are always accessible. The indoor centre has different hours based on the season; summer hours are daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., winter hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and spring and fall hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
What to Bring
As you’ll be spending most of your time at the Helen Schuler Nature Centre outdoors, dress accordingly for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, is recommended.
What’s There
The Helen Schuler Nature Centre is known for its many outdoor walking trails. There’s also the indoor Main Exhibit Gallery as well as rotating indoor and outdoor exhibits, including artist showcases, interactive displays, and even displays featuring live local flora and fauna. The Living Roof is a popular spot for selfies with the High-Level Bridge in the background.
Another fun feature at the Helen Schuler Nature Centre is the chance to borrow adventure gear such as binoculars, magnifying glasses, walking poles, and geocaching GPS units.
Things to Do
There’s an abundance of things to do at the Helen Schuler Nature Centre. Take your time exploring the numerous self-guided trails throughout the area as you enjoy the local flora and fauna and keep an eye out for wildlife. Birdwatchers will rejoice in the fact that over 300 species of birds have been seen in the area! There are also opportunities for geocaching as well as interacting with outdoor exhibits and public art.
Inside the main facility at the centre, wander around the Main Exhibit Gallery and the Community Art Gallery to see the rotating exhibits based on seasonal and environmental themes. There’s also the foundational exhibit of the River Valley, which will teach you about Lethbridge's unique environments, including the grassland prairie, the coulees, the cottonwood forest, and the Oldman River.
Finally, make sure to check out the Living Roof, located on the second floor of the Nature Centre. Here, you can learn about prairie plants and discover the diversity of the grasslands, as well as take in a magnificent view of the High-Level Bridge.
There are also a number of events, programs, and tours available at the Helen Schuler Nature Centre. Check out their schedule for guest speakers, workshops, festivals, and more. Private, guided field trips are also available!
Contact
Website: https://nature.lethbridge.ca/
Email: nature@lethbridge.ca
Phone: 403-320-3064