Yesterday we ventured up Germantown Ave. to the Andorra Natural Area. Parking on Northwestern Ave., we first stopped to check out the horses at Northwestern Stables. On a Sunday afternoon, the kids were excited to be able to see people riding and jumping in both outside and inside rings, as well as hanging out on the grass near the stables where we could stop and see the horses up close.From there we meandered down a trail along the creek that brought us onto Forbidden Drive. Lots of folks out riding bikes, running, walking dogs, and exploring. We headed west off the main trail into the Andorra Natural Area, a 210-acre preserve within Fairmount Park with about 5 miles of hiking trails. We started following the signs for the Tree House, having seen it on a map but not knowing where we would end up, and were surprised not to find an old rustic structure (my husband was hoping for Swiss Family Robinson) but a 100 year old house (that used to have a tree growing through it) that is the Wissahickon Environmental Center!
It was closed, but had bulletin boards on the porch with fliers for some really great outdoor programming. Things like 'Woodsy Moms' - a weekly gathering of parents with kids under 2 who strap their infants and toddlers on and go for a 45 minute hike and the 'Treehouse Tots' class for 3-5 year olds. In addition, they have lots of programming for homeschoolers and school groups.
Their Fairmount Park website is a bit out of date, but you can reach the center directly at 215-685-9285. They also have an Open House the first Saturday of every month from 10-4. Definitely worth checking out!
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