Take the Kids: Go on a leprechaun scavenger hunt at Prairie Ridge Ecostation

Go on a hunt for leprechauns at the outdoor learning lab for the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences.

Posted 2:00 a.m. Mar 12, 2021 — Updated 2:00 a.m. Mar 12, 2021

Sarah Lindenfeld Hall

, Go Ask Mom editor

RALEIGH, N.C. — One of my favorite places to go for a quick nature walk is Prairie Ridge Ecostation.

It's the outdoor research and learning lab for the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences in west Raleigh at 1671 Gold Star Dr., Raleigh, just off Reedy Creek Road and not far from the N.C. Museum of Art.

These days, it offers two short trails, the Prairie Trail and the Forest Trail. which are easy to navigate. There's also a Kids in Parks Track Trail, which runs only about a half mile and includes some "adventures" that you can follow via brochures and information you download. And one of my favorite spots is the bird blind, which overlooks the ecostation's small pond and is such a peaceful place to just look out to spy a few birds and other animals.

Prairie Ridge's nature playground also has been a popular play space for kids during the last several years, but it remains closed for now because of COVID. But it is offering a drop-in, family friendly activity through March 20.

As part of the Leprechaun Scavenger Hunt, families can hunt for the green guys, who are hiding all over Prairie Ridge.

"When you arrive, keep an eye out for the first leprechaun, who is stationed just past our entry kiosk," according to the website. "He has helpful guidance on which way the other leprechauns have gone!"

If you go, know that it can get a bit muddy if it's rained recently. So be prepared. And trail strollers and infant carriers are best for the tiniest hikers as the trails are mulch, dirt or grass and include some small hills.

It's free. Prairie Ridge Prairie Ridge Ecostation is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays.

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