Learning Resources

We have developed and curated a number of locally-relevant resources for residents, visitors, and educators to better understand the Lethbridge river valley environment.

Onsite Resources

Artefacts Collection

We have a working collection of more than 500 natural history artefacts!

Reference Library

Our reference library is an invaluable source of information about local wildlife, plant life, and natural history.

looking at a bee under the Wentzscope (easy-view microscope)
Wentzscope

With 15X magnification this microscope allows visitors to explore the finer details of things found outside.

Publications

view from Cottonwood Park in Lethbridge (looking east)

This booklet brings together the vast knowledge of local naturalists, both past and present.

long-earred owl in tree

Over 300 bird species spend time in Lethbridge each year - use this guide to identify common forest birds.

rattlesnake

Lethbridge is home to a small population of Prairie Rattlesnakes. Learn how to live safely in Rattlesnake territory.

Monarch Butterfly on milkweed

Discover local pollinators! Learn what they need to survive and how they help contribute to thriving ecosystems.

Hunt's bumblebee on gum weed

Bumblebees are considered to be some of the most effective and efficient at pollinating.

bronze copper butterfly on flower

Butterflies are important pollinators! They help produce seeds, berries and fruit.

pollinator cafe supports a variety of pollinators

Support pollinators using our list of pollinator friendly plants for container gardening.

Adults looking at a flower ID guide

It is important we are all doing our part to conserve and protect local native biodiversity!

xeriscaping in Lethbridge

Learn how to grow native prairie plants in your garden, help to conserve water and reduce the use of chemicals.

Natural Leaders Project participants planting a tree in their school yard

Select the right tree for the right location by consulting our list of climate resilient tree species to plant in Lethbridge.

adult enjoying the sunshine in the Lethbridge Nature Reserve Park

An incredible tree passport, featuring many of our city’s most amazing trees!

interpreter leading a group through Elizabeth Hall Wetlands

This preservation area of 32 hectares is tucked away alongside the Oldman River across from the Nature Centre.

beaver swimming in the Oldman River

This research package is a compilation of current and local research in the area of water. 

Lethbridge Through the Seasons Colouring Book cover

Explore Lethbridge’s parks and wildlife that you may encounter in a typical year in the Oldman River Valley. 

adult dressed up as a deer news anchor

Sign up to receive our newsletters! Our 'Nature News' is a great way to learn about seasonal happenings.

Get Outside 101 - Nature Play Guides

Enjoy this series of fun and educational exploration cards, designed to assist teachers and parents in promoting numeracy, literacy, sensory exploration, physical literacy and creative expression skills in the great outdoors. With the support of Community Foundations of Canada, the Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta, and the Friends of the Helen Schuler Nature Centre Society, we developed, printed, and distributed Get Outside 101 - Nature Play Guides.

Challenge yourself to try at least one fun outdoor activity every week! 

Choose an activity category below:

Lesson Plans for Teachers

having fun outside wearing a red Nature Centre t-shirt

Discover the environmental impacts involved in the manufacturing of a t-shirt.

stormwater drain in Lethbridge

Examine where our storm water goes and the effects it has on local ecosystems.

Lots of bottled water

Explore the environmental impacts of bottled water vs. tap water.

grasslands of Lethbridge river valley

Explore the tremendous diversity of life found in our local grasslands.

Trail Maps

Nature Quest Trail Map

Nature Quest Trail

Explore the rich biodiversity of the river valley! Start your adventure with this easy 350m, 650m, or 1km paved trail through the "200 Acre Wood!"

Download Trail Guide
Oxbow Loop Trail Map

Oxbox Loop Trail

Get connected on Oxbow Loop Trail! This easy to moderate 1km loop highlights the connection between the river and adjacent land.

Download Trail Guide
Coulee Climb Trail Map

Coulee Climb Trail

Discover the layers and features of a coulee on this moderate 1km trail with inclines and stairs. Enjoy amazing views of our river valley.

Download Trail Guide
Sweet Spots & Spectacular Shots Trail Map

Sweet Spots & Spectacular Shots

While we agree that ANY time and location is a great one to take a selfie, here’s our top 5 close and accessible picks!

Download Trail Guide
Elizabeth Hall Wetlands Map

Elizabeth Hall Wetlands

Explore this 32 hectares preservation area tucked alongside the Oldman River encompassing a wooded area, wetlands, and an oxbow pond. A bird-watcher's paradise!

Download Trail Guide

Borrow Adventure Gear

Outdoor exploration can be made better with the right tools! Borrow some of our favourite tools to make the most of your next trip in the Lethbridge Reserve Park.

Read More

Looking for outdoor activities?

Do not miss our Self-Directed Programs! We have many outdoor self-guided programs, activities, and on-line educational videos available.

Discover our collection of Self-Directed Programs - featuring activities to enjoy from home and opportunities available during your next visit.

Oki
The City of Lethbridge acknowledges that we are gathered on the lands of the Blackfoot people of the Canadian Plains and pays respect to the Blackfoot people past, present and future while recognizing and respecting their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship to the land. The City of Lethbridge is also home to the Metis Nation of Alberta, Region III.