EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS

Winter is an excellent time of year to get outside and explore, especially at Chisholm Creek Park. We have already seen a fair share of snow this New Year, making the trails even more beautiful. If you decide to venture out to the Great Plains Nature Center this winter, here is a Naturalist’s guide to making the most of your adventure. 

• Proper winter weather attire is a must! Bundle up with layers, heavy coats, thick socks, and winter boots with a good tread.
• Bring water with you. Even in the winter, it is good to stay hydrated!
• Be on the lookout for animal tracks in the snow. You may see some fun evidence of critters in the park, including deer tracks.   
• Listen for wildlife. The snow is great at amplifying the quiet sounds of animals. Keep your ears open for bird calls (like Dark-Eyed Juncos) and the scurrying of small mammals.
• Capture lots of photos. Take the opportunity to capture fun memories with your family, ducks in the wetland or the beautiful snowy landscape. Tag the Great Plains Nature Center in your park photos on social media. 
• Enjoy the icy ponds and wetlands from a distance, walking out on the ice is unsafe.
• If you get too cold, warm up inside the lobby of the Great Plains Nature Center! See some live animals and visit the exhibits Monday- Friday 9am- 4pm and Saturday 10am- 2pm. 
• End your hike with a warm beverage. Bring hot cocoa or hot tea in a thermos to enjoy on your drive back home after your hike.

JOIN US FOR KANSAS DAY!

FUN FACT: Kansas Day commemorates the admission of the state as the 34th in the Union on January 29th, 1861.

You're invited! Join us as we celebrating 163 years of our favorite state. See native animals and enjoy activities, trivia, our new Annual Guide, and a preview our 2024 events. Kansas Day commemorates the admission of the state as the 34th in the Union on January 29th, 1861.

WHEN: 10am-1pm on Saturday, January 27th

WHERE: Inside the Great Plains Nature Center

WHO: Everyone! This is an all ages event

COST: Free

KANSAS STATE SYMBOLS

Each state has symbols, chosen to represent its cultural heritage and natural treasures. Many of the plants and animals that are symbols for our state embody the resilience and hardiness it takes to survive harsh winters and blazing summers in Kansas. They are persistent and adapt to the world around them, just like the people of Kansas do. See below for some of our natural state symbols, and attend our Kansas Day Celebration to learn more!

State Flower- Common Sunflower

State Bird- Western Meadowlark

State Tree- Cottonwood Tree

State Animal- American Bison

State Reptile- Ornate Box Turtle

State Amphibian- Barred Tiger Salamander

State Grass- Little Bluestem

State Fish- Channel Catfish

LEARN MORE: Kansapedia