Please call 231.526.6401 for more info!
Saturdays and one Friday 9:30 pm
July 5th & 26th, August 1st
Given clear skies, we will begin our night time tour by learning the basics of using star charts, cruising through the constellations including the visible Zodiac, and then follow up by using our 8 inch and 4 1/2 inch telescopes in search of galaxies, clusters, and nebulas. All are encouraged to bring their telescopes to the scheduled programs and or contact John at Thorne Swift (526.6401) to set up other viewing times. Bringing a flash light with or without a red filter is recommended for the walk to and from the beach. No reservations required.
Saturdays 8 am
July 12th & 26th; August 9th & 23rd
This has continued to be a very popular hike that uses both eyes and ears. We open early to maximize the quality of our birding experience as Sally Stebbins of Petoskey Regional Audubon co-leads these hikes with out own wildflower guide, Jodi Riggs. No reservations required.
Saturdays 10:30 am
July 19th, August 2nd & 16th
Even though Thorne Swift Nature Preserve as a whole is considered a cedar swamp, there are many different ecosystems within our borders. This is due to differences in the soils, drainage, water table, topography, etc. This could be considered an "Everything Hike" covering the broad range of topics including our flora and fauna. No reservations required.
Fridays 9 pm
July 25th and August 15th
We will begin our evening at the fire circle where we will share stories from many different tribes, followed by a round of s'mores and then a hike to the beach. If you have never visited our Fire Circle in the evening, you have been missing a very special place. We never know what we will see or hear when darkness falls. The Swift at night is a different World. Flashlight is recommended. No reservations required.
Black Ash Basket Weaving
Monday and Tuesday 6 pm
August 18th & 19th
Learn how to prepare Black Ash strips from a log and how to weave a simple basket with our resident weaver, Keith Hammond, in this two part workshop. Blask Ash basketry has a rich history in this area and has been a source of utilitarian containers as well as artistic expression for many generations of our Native Peoples. Workshop fee: $15.00. Call 231.526.6401 to register. Space is limited.