Sterling Nature Center — Attraction in Town of Sterling

My goodness, what an austoundingly beautiful place! It's such a privilege that this slice of nature has been preserved. It's truly a treasure! I brought my binoculars and was able to spot several interesting birds, including swans, brown creepers, cormorants and an egret. I didn't spot any owls during my visit but was told they were seen there recently. We walked two of the trails, including the blue heron trail and the eagles view trail. I really enjoyed them both. The blue heron trail takes you through a diverse range of habitats while the eagles view trail takes you up to a great view of the lake which was magical near sunset. There is also a very nice public picnic area with several grills. The building on site is incredibly nice as well and the staff/volunteers there were very helpful and friendly. There is a selection of gift shop items, a public bathroom and water fountain, along with some interesting taxidermy and geological specimens. They also have binoculars and a scope available for use. I am very happy I visited and would recommend this gem to any bird watchers or...

This is my go-to place for birding. It is dog-friendly and we always bring our pup. It's right along the lake but also has multiple trails around large ponds, fields, through woods, and to a heron rookery. All the trails are well marked and there are both short, easy ones if needed and longer, winding ones if desired. I have seen a wider variety of song birds here than any other local hiking area. Bring your binoculars and in spring you can view newly hatched herons. Muskrat, beavers, many small and water snakes, frogs, turtles, bees, and dragonflies can be found here.

The building is newly renovated and it's very nice inside and offers the ever important restrooms. The parking lot is also new and holds many vehicles.

I have no done one, but they also do...

Jim D'Angelo is The Wandering Naturalist who knows every inch of the Center and the flora and fauna that flourish there. There are lots of public events that are both informative and fun. The new visitors center is a great place to enjoy presentations. There are several trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that explore the varied environments and the animals and plants they support. These are well maintained, both for preservation and visitor safety, but never to the point of disturbing the wildlife by manipulating or destroying the existing food webs. There is even a photography club! SNC is definitely worth visiting each...