Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.
read moreEmbrace Minnesota’s sparkling season and beautiful winter landscape with an evening of hiking by candlelight.
read moreStep back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreOwls have many adaptations for their life in the forest. Totally silent flight, sharp talons, and large eyes set forward make them stealthy hunters. Learn all about these impressive predatory adaptations and the owl species that live in Minnesota.
read moreEmbrace Minnesota’s sparkling season and beautiful winter landscape with an evening of hiking by candlelight.
read moreStep back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreGet ready to experience snow like you never have before!
Bundle up and bring your family and friends for an afternoon of snow games.
read moreFlock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.
read moreEmbrace Minnesota’s sparkling season and beautiful winter landscape with an evening of hiking by candlelight.
read moreStep back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreBring your sweetheart or come with friends for a candlelit evening in nature.
Follow the glow of candlelight through the woods as you walk through the Valentine themed Love in the Animal Kingdom trivia trail. Then, warm up by the fire inside the Nature Center. Enjoy an adult beverage from the gourmet hot cocoa bar, a sweet chocolate treat, and a nighttime view of Quarry Hill's animal ambassadors. Must be 21+ to attend.
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Huddle together, slow down, stock up on food and use 'antifreeze' - animals use some amazing adaptations to survive the winter weather! Join a naturalist and discover how animals get through the long, cold, snowy months of winter.
read moreJoin a naturalist at Quarry Hill for a reading of the children’s book Owl Moon followed by a live owl encounter and a 30- minute hike with a Quarry Hill naturalist.
About the Book: Late one winter night a little girl and her father go owling. The trees stand still as statues and the world is silent as a dream. Whoo-whoo-whoo, the father calls to the mysterious nighttime bird. But there is no answer. Wordlessly the two companions walk along, for when you go owling you don't need words. You don't need anything but hope. Sometimes there isn't an owl, but sometimes there is.
read moreJoin a naturalist at Quarry Hill for a reading of the children’s book Owl Moon followed by a live owl encounter and a 30- minute hike with a Quarry Hill naturalist.
About the Book: Late one winter night a little girl and her father go owling. The trees stand still as statues and the world is silent as a dream. Whoo-whoo-whoo, the father calls to the mysterious nighttime bird. But there is no answer. Wordlessly the two companions walk along, for when you go owling you don't need words. You don't need anything but hope. Sometimes there isn't an owl, but sometimes there is.
read more
Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreFlock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.
read more
Quarry Hill Nature Center visitors will enjoy a presentation on March 7 by Randy (Rudi)
Hargesheimer, a native of Rochester who spent many days of his youth exploring the quarry
and the hills at today’s Quarry Hill Park. Rudi will discuss the Superior Hiking Trail and his book,
The Superior Hiking Trail Story, The Trek Continues / Expanded Content. Just printed in 2023, the new
book offers many historical stories gleaned from interviews with hikers, volunteers, and
Superior Hiking Trail Association staff; many photos and “Sentiment” quotes from hikers plus
an emphasis on volunteers with portrait stories of several “Super Hero” volunteers. New and
long-time hikers will all enjoy the rich history of how the trail grew from nothing in 1986 to over
300 miles in length today. There were challenges, great successes and little-known missteps
along the way. His award winning photos alone – many presented in the talk – will make every
North Shore enthusiast want this book.
Author, Rudi Hargesheimer is a long-time North Shore enthusiast. He discovered the new
Superior Hiking Trail® in 1986 and was soon a Superior Hiking Trail Association volunteer board
member, serving twelve years – six of those as President.
Rudi was a 40-year employee and manager at Midwest Mountaineering in Minneapolis, the
2010 Number One Outdoor Retailer in America. He traveled extensively all over the world
coming to realize that the best adventures of all were on the Minnesota North Shore and the
Superior Hiking Trail – as his photos will attest. He has written many articles about adventure in
Minnesota as a contributor to MN Trails Magazine, Lake Superior Magazine and other regional
publications. His current business is North Shore Photo Art: www.northshorephotoart.com
These days his home is in the St. Croix River Valley, another cherished subject for Rudi’s always
busy camera.
Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
March Topic: Oh, Deer!
Tracks, trails and scat – we’re headed out in search of deer in the Quarry Hill woods and field. Get ready for hide and seek and finders keepers as we join in antler games! Oh deer, mister buck dropped his antler, can we find it? Hightail it to Quarry Hill to discover all about this treasured and secretive mammal.
Love them or not, creepy crawlies are everywhere and play a vital role in our environment! This program highlights the world of invertebrates – with an up close look at a live tarantula, walking stick, & hissing cockroach.
read moreStep back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreStudents will work at hands-on experiment stations to learn about the geology under our feet and how our limestone bedrock forms caves and affects groundwater quality.
read moreThe “Soil Chef” will help students understand the difference between soil & dirt and give the recipe for soil. Students will hike to the QH sandstone cave and also sift & sort soil samples into their components.
read moreJust what is a raptor? Students will examine and study this special group of birds. They will learn what makes an owl such a successful predator: silent feathers, powerful talons, and incredible senses.
read moreFlock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
April Topic: Wonderful Worms
They’re sticky and they’re slimy, wiggly and tiny, they’re all together grimy - it’s the worm family! Get ready to dig into the wonderful world of worms as we explore one of nature’s most down to earth creatures. Learn about their amazing recycling powers and streamlined design that make them the best creature for the job!
Have you ever peeked under a rock? A whole community of creatures lives there! Join a naturalist at the Nature Center for a reading of the children’s book Under One Rock. Then head out to the woods with your guide where we will look for worms, bug, slugs and other ughs and learn the secret art of worm mustarding! Book reading begins promptly at 10 am, followed by a hike to our outdoor exploration space.
read moreStep back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreNatural science meets imagination during this special presentation.
Join Quarry Hill staff for a presentation comparing some of our favorite Pokémon with animals you can find in the Park. Then meet some Quarry Hill animal ambassadors (water & flying types) and learn which supereffective powers and abilities help them survive in the wild!
Recommended for participants ages 5 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
read moreHelp us celebrate Earth Day with falconer Kirk Payne and a live American Kestrel.
This small but mighty raptor exhibits fascinating adaptations that make it a formidable hunter. With its sharp talons, keen eyesight, and swift aerial maneuvers, the kestrel is well-equipped for hunting in flight. Despite its remarkable abilities, the American kestrel faces big challenges with its conservation status showing a significant population decline. Learn about local conservation efforts and what you can do to help. By raising awareness about the kestrel's plight and doing our part in habitat preservation, we can contribute to the well-being of this remarkable bird of prey.
BONUS! From 2:00 - 2:30 Kirk will demonstrate how to build a kestrel nesting box while discussing tips for placement and caring for nesting kestrels.
Recommended for adults and participants 8 years +, children must be accompanied by an adult.
read moreRibbit, croak, and sing. Our frogs have plenty to say about their lifestyle at Quarry Hill. We might even see some of their friends on a quick trip out to the pond.
read moreStep back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreFlock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.
read moreStep back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
May Topic: Peeps & Leaps, It's Time for Spring!
Frogs and toads are starting their spring songs! Come meet some of our live frogs & toads as we learn all about their spring songs and lifecycle. Then we will grab nets and head out to the pond in search of these peeping leapers!
Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
June Topic: Salamander SaluteSalute the salamander and learn all about this wet, wild and wonderful animal. Meet our live salamander and head into the woods in search of more “tigers”. A muddy craft and snack fit for a salamander will complete our adventure.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
June Topic: Salamander SaluteSalute the salamander and learn all about this wet, wild and wonderful animal. Meet our live salamander and head into the woods in search of more “tigers”. A muddy craft and snack fit for a salamander will complete our adventure.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
June Topic: Who is that knock knocking in the woods? Downy, Hairy, Pileated, what makes these birds so special? Use your eyes and ears as we search for woodpeckers in the park and their signature mark on trees. Then enjoy a snack suitable for “pecky” eaters.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
June Topic: Who is that knock knocking in the woods? Downy, Hairy, Pileated, what makes these birds so special? Use your eyes and ears as we search for woodpeckers in the park and their signature mark on trees. Then enjoy a snack suitable for “pecky” eaters.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
June Topic: Who is that knock knocking in the woods? Downy, Hairy, Pileated, what makes these birds so special? Use your eyes and ears as we search for woodpeckers in the park and their signature mark on trees. Then enjoy a snack suitable for “pecky” eaters.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
June Topic: Who is that knock knocking in the woods? Downy, Hairy, Pileated, what makes these birds so special? Use your eyes and ears as we search for woodpeckers in the park and their signature mark on trees. Then enjoy a snack suitable for “pecky” eaters.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
July Topic: Moles, worms, groundhogs, spiders, foxes and even owls find life is good when you are underground. Get the dirt on why these animals like to live underfoot when we go searching for their lairs. Dig up some good grub and make your own underground detective funnel.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
July Topic: Moles, worms, groundhogs, spiders, foxes and even owls find life is good when you are underground. Get the dirt on why these animals like to live underfoot when we go searching for their lairs. Dig up some good grub and make your own underground detective funnel.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
August Topic: Summer is coming to an end and butterflies are abundant. Search high and low for fluttery butterflies that rise and glide on the breeze. Learn what makes each unique and beautiful. Spend time in the butterfly garden looking for young caterpillars, taste a butterfly snack and nature willing, take home your own caterpillar to raise and release.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
August Topic: Summer is coming to an end and butterflies are abundant. Search high and low for fluttery butterflies that rise and glide on the breeze. Learn what makes each unique and beautiful. Spend time in the butterfly garden looking for young caterpillars, taste a butterfly snack and nature willing, take home your own caterpillar to raise and release.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
August Topic: Most birds can only fly forward, however hummingbirds can also fly backward, up, down, and sideways just like a helicopter! Join us as we learn more about the world’s smallest birds. Fuel up on a sweet snack and craft your own animated hummingbird toy.
read moreOffered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly.
August Topic: Most birds can only fly forward, however hummingbirds can also fly backward, up, down, and sideways just like a helicopter! Join us as we learn more about the world’s smallest birds. Fuel up on a sweet snack and craft your own animated hummingbird toy.
read more