Education Nodes and Story Walk Activities

An ‘Education Node’ is an interactive, adaptable learning space for students, youth groups, families, and the general public who visit the Ankeny Hill Nature Center. These spaces provide a hands-on learning experience that encourages and fosters a connection to nature, public lands, and cultural traditions. Most Education Nodes are found along the groomed accessible trails on the Center's grounds.

These Nodes incorporate various personal learning styles and education techniques to accommodate a diverse audience. Walking along one of our trails allows you to explore natural objects up close. Stopping at an education node lets you spend about 15-20 minutes at a designated stop, getting an in-depth view of a particular topic.

​An example of a node is The Story Walk"—A Home atop Ankeny Hill." This booklet and signage allow visitors to learn more about the Wildlife Refuge, its habitats, wildlife, and what they can do to help protect this ecosystem. Coming in summer 2025 are new materials and permanent installation of more informative signs.

This Story Walk Node invites visitors onto the more significant loop trail around the Nature Center, bringing them through multiple habitats and to the other nodes along the trail.​​