Plan Your Visit to Catholic Ecology Center
When you plan a visit to the Catholic Ecology Center, you can look forward to a variety of activities to enjoy that connect faith with nature, such as guided nature walks, canoeing on the Rubicon River, and educational workshops.
Among the highlights and features of the center are its stunning 60 acres of diverse habitats, including forests, prairies, and a tranquil pond, offering a rich environment for exploration. Join us to foster a deeper appreciation for creation, together!
Activities to Enjoy
Walking & Hiking:
Kid-friendly Spaces:
Kid-friendly Spaces:
Explore the Catholic Ecology Center's diverse habitats through our network of trails. Experience God's creation up close as you traverse woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. Trail conditions vary by season, so appropriate footwear is recommended. Download our Property Map.
Kid-friendly Spaces:
Kid-friendly Spaces:
Kid-friendly Spaces:
Any time of year, CEC offers exploration and learning outdoors and inside our building. Bring your kids of all ages to explore at our beautiful Natural Play Area. And, checkout an Adventure Pack to guide your trek through our Ecology Center's many educational spaces.
Canoeing:
Kid-friendly Spaces:
Skiing & Snowshoeing:
The Rubicon River is an ideal location for canoeing, featuring a mix of calm stretches and occasional rapids, providing a varied experience for canoeists. Suitable for those looking for a bit of adventure while enjoying the tranquility of nature! Check out our canoe rentals.
Skiing & Snowshoeing:
Retreats & Field Trips:
Skiing & Snowshoeing:
Enjoy groomed trails and no fees for using the cross-country ski trails! During the winter months, trails not groomed for skiing are open for walking and snowshoeing. We currently do not rent skis or snowshoes. Members can borrow our skis and snowshoes at no charge.
Educational Programs:
Retreats & Field Trips:
Retreats & Field Trips:
Participate in our hands-on educational programs designed to deepen your faith and foster a stewardship ethic. Find a variety of sessions for youth, families, and adults, covering topics from ecology to Catholic teachings on creation care. Explore our Programs & Events.
Retreats & Field Trips:
Retreats & Field Trips:
Retreats & Field Trips:
For small and large groups alike, CEC offers spiritual enrichment in a unique setting. These experiences are designed to connect your spiritual journey with the natural world around you. Browse our Retreat & Field Trip fees and Facility Rental options.
Highlights and Features
SPECIAL EVENTS FOR EVERY SEASON:
School groups, homeschool science classes and the general public are welcome year-round to enjoy bug showcases, owl prowls, maple syrupin’, water quality testing, pond studies, and wildlife monitoring, and more!
Our time at the CEC has helped my students realize everything god created has a purpose.
-- Dave, Youth Minister