Community Programs
Outdoor explorations, community-building, and learning through nature, science, and play.
Through Community Programming, we offer Muddy Sneakers experiences through mission-aligned partners, community groups, and school districts. The program can be tailored to enhance existing nature activities or to create new outdoor experiences.
For more information on Community Programming please contact us at info@muddysneakers.org
Community Program Participant Waivers:
Program opportunities include:
- nature connection
- outdoor exploration
- hiking
- self-discovery
- small groups
- team building
- peer learning
- scientific inquiry
- art and creativity
- reflection
- wonder
- games and play
What do we bring?
Deeper understanding of nature
Our seasoned naturalists offer local expertise to help participants become familiar with our unique ecosystems.
An unforgettable experience
We foster curiosity as we guide small groups in exploring the lush biodiversity of the mountain landscape.
The joy of being outside
We develop an immersive connection to the outdoors through adventure, exploration, and discovery.
Available Programs
Programs Emphasizing Nature Connection
Patterns & Art in Nature
You’ve heard of Michelangelo, Monet, and Picasso but have you heard of the artist, Mother Nature? For millions of years, nature has sculpted the natural world around us and now it’s your chance to discover the art hidden in the forests. During this Muddy Sneakers expedition, we’ll unleash our creativity and unlock the beauty in the world around us.
Nature Journaling & Mindfulness
There’s more to the forest than what meets the eye! Unlock your five senses and discover a hidden world in nature. During this Muddy Sneakers program, we’ll reconnect with our surroundings and gain a new perspective on North Carolina’s natural spaces.
Nature’s Playground
Who needs a swing set when you have the forest! Skip, hop, and navigate your way through nature’s playground as we play games and discover the adventures that await in our very own backyards! During this Muddy Sneakers program, we’ll focus on team building, building confidence in the outdoors, and most importantly, how to have fun without all of the toys and gadgets!
Programs Emphasizing Science Connection
Becoming a scientist!
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to become a scientist? During this Muddy Sneakers program, we’ll transform into scientists for the day to investigate the world around us. Today will surely fuel your curiosity, and if we’re lucky, it will have you questioning everything!
Wildlife Bioblitz
From songbirds to salamanders, the forests are overflowing with life! During this Muddy Sneakers program, we’ll go on the hunt to discover animals, insects, mushrooms and more. Following our expert naturalists, we’ll use binoculars and field guides to complete a Bioblitz scavenger hunt and uncover the immense biodiversity of North Carolina ecosystems.
Environmental Stewardship
Did you know forest fires can be good for nature and that a tiny insect could make entire forests disappear? During this Muddy Sneakers program, you’ll learn about the challenges our nearby ecosystems face and what local scientists, citizens and students like YOU are doing to help!
Muddy Sneakers Classroom Classics
Choose from one of eight Muddy Sneakers “Classroom Classics,” including Aquatic Ecosystems, Living Systems, Energy & Heat Transfer, Ecosystem Interactions, Forces & Motion, Inheritance & Adaptation, Matter, Terrestrial Ecosystems, and Weather. Each topic aligns with the NC Essential Science Standards for 5th-grade classrooms.