Spring has sprung, which means the birds are chirping, the grass is greening and the snakes are slithering.
On Saturday, May 2, all are welcome to join a free 3.2-kilometre hike at the Narcisse Snake Dens, hosted by the Manitoba chapter of Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS). The event runs from 11 a.m. to noon, and
CPAWS Manitoba is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting Manitoba’s lands and waters for future generations.
“Founded in 1991, we are proudly built in Manitoba and committed to making sure the voice of conservation is heard on issues that affect our parks, wild spaces and natural heritage,” said Katie Borgfjord, digital marketing co-ordinator for the Manitoba chapter.
“Along with protecting nature, we help connect to nature through our Nature Club and Outdoor Education program.”
The Narcisse Snake Dens are a spectacular site in Manitoba, she added.
“It is the largest snake den in the world. The snakes spend the winters hibernating in the limestone rocks and come out to mate in spring,” she said.
“This is the best time to view the snakes. On the hike, you can expect a fun day out in nature. We will have volunteers to help guide your walk and chat a bit about the snakes.”
Group hikes are a perfect outing for families and people new to the area.
“With a CPAWS hike, you can get out in nature with the safety of being in a group, and being near people trained in first aid, while connecting with nature and making some new friends,” she said.
“You also have the opportunity to sign a postcard to help protect lands and waters, like the Interlake.”
In addition to the hike, this year CPAWS is also offering a new event — a wildlife photo walk at the snake dens on Saturday, May 2 from noon to 1 p.m. Registration is separate from the regular group hike.
“This is in collaboration with photographer April Carandang,” Borgfjord said.
“She will be taking us through a relaxed beginner guide for photographing wildlife and how to get the best shots.”
Throughout the summer, CPAWS continues to offer events for all to enjoy.
“As a part of our Nature Club, we host many events all summer to help connect people to nature. On Tuesdays in the summer, we have nature workshops at Crescent Drive Park in Winnipeg. On Wednesdays, we have paddle nights on Churchill Drive,” Borgfjord said.
“Every first Saturday of the month, we have a free group hike. In the Interlake, we have a group hike in Stony Mountain on Oct. 3. Remember that CPAWS Manitoba is your source to get outside.”
To see all the events and to register, visit cpawsmb.org/nature-club-events.
