May 11 Saturday
May brings thousands of migrating birds to Lake Michigan, and Lighthouse West is their last stop in Leelanau County, a welcome drop-out spot after a long, long flight from the Tropics. We will walk slowly and carefully, taking time to look for birds, of course (so bring binoculars!), but also to look at the habitat and topography of Lighthouse West and consider what makes it such a bird-friendly place.
Just in time for Mother's Day gifts!Large selection of beautiful hanging baskets, potted geraniums, rescued perennials & wild flowers, a nice selection of rescued & native shrubs. Try something new in your landscape. Jerry, our plant/landscape expert, will be available both days to answer those nagging garden questions you might have.Proceeds benefit ongoing attempts to improve basic needs in Mizak, Haiti.Friday, May 10: 9-6Saturday, May 11: 9-3Location: Bay Street @ M22 N & M72W
Join District staff on Mother’s Day Weekend for an opportunity to give back to Mother Earth through stewardship activities at Hickory Meadows! Help improve habitat by controlling highly invasive garlic mustard and planting native seedlings. Foster sustatinability as we refine existing trails and consider potential reroutes. Please bring sturdy shoes and work gloves!Meet at the Randolph Trailhead at the end of Randolph St. Registration: Free. Registration is required at www.natureiscalling.org/events
May 18 Saturday
Sell or buy any fun and funky or plain and practical used bikes at the 13th annual Recycle-A-Bicycle Bike Swap. This much anticipated event is the perfect time to become the new owner of a summer cruiser or upgrade a child’s bike.
The R-A-B Bike Swap is for anyone who wants to sell and/or purchase an unused or out-grown bicycle or bike accessory. Accessories include bike trailers, hitches, bike racks and sometimes frames and wheels. R-A-B requires that all bicycles be in ride-able condition. The tires must hold air and the brakes and shifters must be in working condition. Small items like shoes, helmets or clothing WILL NOT BE accepted.
If you are selling a bike, drop off is between 6 and 8 pm on Friday, May 17 at the Old Town Parking Deck. Sellers receive 75% of the proceeds and the Recycle-A-Bicycle program receives 25%.
The funds raised during the Bike Swap allow the Recycle-a-Bicycle program to continue to provide necessary active transportation to economically disadvantaged individuals and families.
ScheduleFriday, May 17 | 6pm-8pm | Bike drop-off at the Old Town Parking DeckSaturday, May 18 | 9am-1pm | Shop the Bike SwapSaturday, May 18 | 2pm-4pm | Pick up unsold bikes from the Swap
Head to The Village at Grand Traverse Commons and shop local on our historic front lawn! Browse Michigan vendors offering, jewelry, art, crafts, food and more. This is a free event and great for all ages!
Join us for the second hike in our Family & Children Geology Hike Series featuring the Grand Traverse Area Rock and Mineral Club Pebble Pups - Ancient Echoes Expedition: Journey into the World of Fossils!
Embark on an extraordinary adventure with the "Ancient Echoes Expedition: Journey into the World of Fossils," a thrilling hike that invites you to step back in time and explore the geological wonders of our planet. This immersive program guides hikers through a captivating landscape rich in ancient echoes, where fossilized remnants tell the tales of prehistoric life. Led by seasoned experts in paleontology, the expedition combines the excitement of a scenic hike with hands-on fossil discovery, offering participants the chance to learn about ancient creatures. As the trail winds through breathtaking vistas, participants gain a deep appreciation for the geological history that shaped the world we know today. This hike is not just a physical journey but a profound exploration into the mysteries of Earth's past, fostering a connection between nature enthusiasts and the awe-inspiring narratives concealed within the rocks and fossils of the terrain.per understanding of our interconnected relationship with these vital waterways.
This program is geared towards an audience of children and families.
Meet at the Oleson Pavilion next to the Boardman River Nature Center 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685.
Registration: Free. Register at www.natureiscalling.org/events
Artist and educator Penny Krebiehl will lead this guided nature journal and drawing workshop, gathering at the library before heading outdoors. Participants should dress for outdoor weather, and bring their own drawing supplies (notebooks, pens, pencils, etc). The group will then meet back at the library to share their work. All ages are welcome.
May 26 Sunday
What would it be like to be a pink lady slipper orchid at Houdek Dunes? You might find yourself surrounded by a couple thousand “ cousin” orchids.
For sure you would find yourself blooming in rich communities of native and diverse plants, animals, and fungi….just itching to share this unique natural area with others such as bugs, bees, birds, bears, and much more. Join docents Ann McInnis, Bert Thomas, and Betsy Winter in making discoveries on this Memorial Weekend Sunday afternoon.
Jun 01 Saturday
Join us for the third and final hike in our Family & Children Geology Hike Series featuring the Grand Traverse Area Rock and Mineral Club Pebble Pups - Ice Age Odyssey: Hiking through the Legacy of the Ice Age!
Take a transformative journey on "Ice Age Odyssey: Hiking through the Legacy of the Ice Age," a trailblazing expedition that unveils the remnants of a glacial epoch etched into the landscape. This immersive hiking program offers hikers the unique opportunity to traverse breathtaking terrains shaped by the colossal forces of the Ice Age. Led by knowledgeable guides well-versed in geological history, hikers will meander through stunning vistas adorned with ancient moraines, glacial valleys, and picturesque remnants of ice-carved landscapes. Along the way, adventurers will gain profound insights into the ecological and geological legacies left by the retreating ice, fostering a deep connection to the Earth's dynamic past. This hike promises not only a physical exploration but also a captivating narrative that unfolds with every step, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the enduring imprints of our planet's icy heritage.
Registration: Free. Registration is required at www.natureiscalling.org/events
Jun 10 Monday
Norte is joining the Traverse Area District Library for their Summer Reading Club Kickoff event! Get a bike tune-up for your summer riding adventures from our Norte bike mechanic, sign up for the Summer Reading Club, participate in an interactive STEM activity with Challenge Island & more!