1) The Bald Eagles
Need we say more? In the winter, our nation’s mascot leaves its frozen lakes and arrives at the open waters of Great Bay to hunt rabbits and waterfowl. You may find one perched in the tallest nearby tree, or swooping down to catch a black duck – or as the spring migration begins, hunting a shad or river herring. Watching bald eagles from the 1700-foot-long boardwalk is an unforgettable experience – cross country skis optional.
2) The Views
In the spring, the marsh along the shores of Great Bay is busy growing, but the winter is the perfect time to throw on snowshoes for a walk along our state’s hidden coastline. It’s easy to see little of the Bay while driving around the Seacoast, or just catch glimpses of it on a visit, but trekking along the shoreline gives a chance to catch amazing views.
3) The Events
In January and February, escape your housebound state (we’ve all been there) for a “brown bag lunch” at the Reserve – bring your lunch, they’ll provide the drinks, dessert, and a bit of scientific education and company. Keep an eye on the calendar at greatbay.org to find out about upcoming programs – it might be taking a walk on the Reserve with a scientist or getting an up close look at birds of prey.
4) The Winter Wilderness
Most of us probably won’t get a chance to get to Antarctica, but the first time you walk down to the boat launch at the Great Bay Discovery Center in the dead of winter you might feel like you’re there. Giant ice floes crash up against the rocks and sand of the shoreline, while a sheet of flat ice and snow appears to reach all the way across the Bay to the shores of Newmarket. If it’s been very, very cold, you might even catch some ice fishing in action (and be sure to bring your camera).
5) The Fun!
Wondering how you’re going to entertain your children over teacher workdays and winter vacation? Look no further than the education programs of the Discovery Center, where the Bayventures programs are open to children in 1st through 6th grade, and the Once Upon a Winter Estuary program are aimed at 2 to 5 year-olds. Who can say no to hunting animal tracks while wearing snowshoes, enjoying the food the Abenaki would have survived on during the winter months, maple sugaring, and enjoying the syrup you’ve just seen flow from the trees over a pancake lunch? Younger children will have a chance to explore the outdoors and then warm up with a story, hot cocoa, and a craft. Check the greatbay.org calendar to find out more and sign up.
By Allison Knab, Executive Director of the Great Bay Stewards and a proud partner of the Every Drop Alliance.
#EveryDropMatters
