A Breath of Fresh Air
The Hewett P. Mulford Sr. Nature Trail on Countryside YMCA property exists to encourage people of all ages to grow together in their spirit, mind and body through volunteerism, educational opportunities, and activities in the outdoors. Established in 1984 the Hewett P. Mulford Nature Trail is maintained and enhanced through volunteer efforts. The 2.3 miles of trail is open year round and can be accessed through Trail/Patio exit across from the CSC. Access ONLINE MAP HERE or PDF MAP HERE. We would also like to invite you to check out our Friends Of Our Trail (FOOT) at the Countryside YMCA Facebook Group, where we share updates, photos, and opportunities to connect with others and nature.
Nature Trail Walks
Explore the YMCA woods on the Hewett P. Mulford Nature Trail and experience the wonders of nature with certified professionals. Nature Walks are FREE to all ages of members and the community. Meet at the lower level entry gate on the Countryside YMCA | Lebanon property.
2024 DATES TBD We all know that going for a walk is good for our physical health, but it doesn’t stop there. Research shows that getting outside in nature has many mental health benefits as well. Join us as we walk, wander, and wonder through the YMCA woods. Meet at the outdoor shelter on the North side of the YMCA building (near the gymnastics area). These walks will be led by Jim Ludwick and Laura Stanton and are open to YMCA members and non-members. Walks will be held rain or shine, so please dress appropriately. 2024 DATES TBD Did you know that spending time in nature is good for you? Scientific studies show that spending time in nature has numerous mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. Join us for a walk in the YMCA woods as we appreciate, observe, and photograph the natural world around us. Meet at the outdoor shelter on the North side of the YMCA building (near the gymnastics area). These walks will be led by Jim Ludwick and Laura Stanton and are open to YMCA members and non-members. Walks will be held rain or shine, but photography might be limited in inclement weather. Please protect your equipment and dress appropriately. 2024 DATES TBD Research shows that people that hang out with birds experience an upswing in their general mood. Improve your mood and learn more about birds during this special walk through the YMCA woods. Austin will cover some birding basics, like how to approach identification, maintain checklists, report online observations, and use popular birding apps like MerlinID and eBird (feel free to download these free resources in advance). Please bring binoculars if you have them. Meet at the outdoor shelter on the North side of the YMCA building (near the gymnastics area). This walk is open to YMCA members and non-members and will be held rain or shine, so please dress appropriately. 2024 DATES TBD Celebrate the “shortest day” of the year outdoors. The solstice is a great time to slow down, ponder, and reflect on the year and celebrate the longer days on the horizon. Meet at the outdoor shelter on the North side of the YMCA building (near the gymnastics area). This walk will be led by Laura Stanton and is open to YMCA members and non-members. This walk will be held rain or shine, so please dress appropriately.
Take Your Workout Outdoors with Nature Fit Classes
During this one hour class offered exclusively to Countryside YMCA members, participants will be challenged at fitness stations along our 2.3 mile of nature trail. All levels of fitness are welcome. Come appropriately dressed as class will be outdoors rain or shine. Register and learn more HERE.
Nature Trail Volunteer Opportunities
If you enjoy working outdoors, consider volunteering with our nature trail. We need seedling/planting care, invasive plant removal, and trail maintenance. If interested, contact Jim Ludwick
Scout Group Rentals
The campsite can be rented for overnight rentals by scouting groups. Contact Shannon Brown for details.