Cummings Nature Center is a great place to fully immerse yourself in the outdoors. The center has "15 miles of hiking trails through wetlands, meadows, and upland forests." In the winter months there are groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Inside the Visitor's Center there are local taxidermy animals, informational placards, and bathrooms. It's a great place to learn about the local environment and so convenient to have a bathroom at the beginning of all the trails. The nature center also hosts different events and exhibits, so be sure to check out their website for unique activities. When I went I walked the pioneer trail and connected to the Haudenosaunee trail with a friend. It was a quiet day out with only a few other people on the trail. We paid the $3 entrance fee, grabbed our trail map, and went exploring. We passed pioneer cabin and stopped by a beaver dam for a quick snack. My favorite part about the nature center is the amount of different trails to explore. Each trails is clearly marked and easy to navigate and provides a unique experience. There are also multiple picnic areas to stop for a lunch and make the experience into a whole day trip. Although I didn't manage to make it out while the snow was on the ground this year, I've been previous years when snow coated the trails and it's even more beautiful. It is definitely worth the 45 minute drive from campus.
Check out their website below for more information:
