Our Crystal programs are through partnership with Crystal & New Hope Parks & Recreation. Most classes take place at at Bassett Creek Park located in Crystal or Northwood Park in New Hope. Both parks are connected by Bassett Creek Regional trail which also connects to many other parks as well. We run mostly preschool and youth classes at these sites. Please note that outside of an EcoElsa program you are not allowed to go off trail or forage in these parks.
Upcoming Programs
Winter Adventure Camp: Monday & Tuesday, December 29th & 30th, 12:30 am to 3:30 pm, Ages 7-14 (No School Day)
Youth ages 7-14 go on a winter adventure to explore outdoor winter skills including snowshoeing, winter survival, and animal tracking. Learn to build a fire, follow animal tracks, and navigate through snowy terrain. This is a fun-filled, skill-building winter experience.
Snow Day STEAM: Friday, January 23rd, 12:30 to 3:30 pm, Ages 7-13 (No School Day)
Youth ages 7-13 enjoy a creative and active outdoor winter adventure. Explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math through hands-on activities: snowman relay race, build a snowball launcher, snow fort engineering, snowflake art, and snow science experiments. Dress for the weather. Register by Jan. 15.
Preschool Snow Day: Monday, January 26th, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, Ages 3-5 with an Adult
Learn about snow and winter by building and playing games with snow, make snow art and do snow science. Dress for the weather as most time is spent outdoors. Register by January 19.
Winter 123s Hike: Thursday, February 12th, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, Ages 3-5 with an Adult
Come on a hike with to learn numbers and counting while learning about nature. Kids will get to do hiking games and activities that help them learn their numbers, motor skills, and more! Register by Feb. 4.
Winter Night Hike: Saturday, February 28th, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Ages 18+
Ages 18+ take a night hike through a winter wonderland. Learn about and listen to the creatures that call Minnesota home during our winter nights. Learn how to make owl calls, play night games, and more. Register by Feb. 20.
Family Maple Syruping: Saturday, March 21st, 1:00 to 3:00 pm, Ages 5+ with an Adult
Enjoy hands-on outdoor adventure where families (ages 5+ with paying adult) collect sap and help turn it into maple syrup. The program includes fun games, activities that explore the history, science, and Indigenous origins of syruping. Dress warmly. Register by March 13.