Turn those "middle-of-the-week slumps" into trail-side adventures. Mud-Stompers is a high-energy, nature-based hiking club designed for kids who aren't afraid to get a little dirt on their boots!
Every session, we dive into the wonders of springtime as we explore the diverse ecosystems of Mendon Ponds Park. From the rolling eskers to the hidden wetlands, your child will experience the best of the outdoors through a mix of movement, science, and play.
Each week is a brand-new adventure in a different section of the park. Our sessions include:
Springtime Hikes: We’ll traverse the trails to see the forest waking up.
Wildlife Observations: From spotting migratory birds to searching for vernal pool critters, we’ll learn to look (and listen) like real naturalists.
Nature Games: We burn off steam with interactive games that teach ecology and teamwork.
Mud & Memories: It’s in the name! We embrace the season, whether we’re puddle-jumping or trekking through the thaw.
When: Select Wednesdays. Sign up for one, two, three, or all six!
Time: 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Where: Mendon Ponds Park (Meeting locations vary weekly—specific trail heads are listed below!)
What to Wear: Layers and sturdy, waterproof boots are highly recommended!
Note: Our program runs rain or shine (or mud!). We believe there’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong gear. We will only cancel in the event of unsafe winds and/or thunderstorms.
Cost: $5 /child with one free adult. $5 for additional adults.
Reservations are required through the linked Google Form above.
If a session does not have any registrations 6 hours before the start time it will be canceled.
April 15 at the Devil's Bathtub Shelter
April 29 at the Cainfield Woods Shelter
May 13 at the Ponds View Shelter
May 27 at the Lookout Shelter
June 10 at the Cavalry Lodge Shelter
June 17 at Pond View Shelter
Hike lengths and elevation gains will vary. Be prepared for hills and mud.
The program will last approximately 1 hour.
Reservations are required and must be made at https://forms.gle/9tKFsXyTvNJWAJ3a9
This program is recommended for children ages 4-12.
Maximum group size is 10 registered children (not including family companion(s)).
$5 per child must be paid to Adventures with Alyssa Rose in cash or via Venmo or Paypal prior to departing on your scheduled hike. One free adult is included per child. $5 for every additional adult.
Children ages 3 and under are free as a family companion.
Children are required to have a parent present for the entire program.
One adult can claim responsibility for up to 5 children.
Adults will be required to complete a waiver prior to the hike for themselves and the children they claim responsibility for.
All participants are encouraged to walk or be carried. Strollers are welcome, but can sometimes be difficult to maneuver or will need to be parked for a portion of the program. This hike has an elevation gain of 16 feet. It has a steep hill at the beginning and wide steps at the end.
Closed toe shoes / boots and weather appropriate clothing are recommended. Flip flops and other sandals will make the hike portion of the program very difficult for children and adults.
Parking is available at each trail head.
There are not indoor restrooms or water fountains at every location, but a portable water refill station and either an outhouse or pop up potty will be available.
Private strolls, birthday parties, and scout options available upon request.
If you have any questions please email to adventureswithalyssarose@gmail.com.