Creekin' with Kayla at Monte Sano Nature Preserve

There's something magical about turning over rocks in a shallow creek to see what's living underneath, and that's exactly what families will do during this guided creek exploration at Monte Sano Nature Preserve. Led by Educator Naturalist Kayla Wilson, this hands-on adventure invites children and their adults to wade into Fagan Creek to discover the small creatures that make their home in the water. It's a chance to learn about Alabama's aquatic ecosystem while getting genuinely muddy — the kind of outdoor experience that reminds kids (and parents) why creek stomping never gets old. Best suited for children ages 6 and up, younger siblings are welcome to join the fun. The program meets at 9:00 AM on September 25, 2026, at the Cleermont Trailhead of Monte Sano Nature Preserve, located at 500 Cleermont Drive. Note that the preserve has multiple trailheads, so double-check you're heading to the correct one. Cost information wasn't provided, so it's worth confirming when you sign up. The morning will be spent in the shaded stream, so sun exposure shouldn't be a concern. Come prepared for a proper creek adventure: everyone should wear shoes and clothes that can get wet and muddy. Water shoes or old sneakers work well. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during your exploration. This is the kind of outing where getting dirty is the whole point, so leave the fancy shoes at home and embrace the chance to see what lives beneath the surface of an Alabama creek.