Perched on a canyon with exceptional views of the Jemez Mountains, the Los Alamos Nature Center is the perfect place to start your exploration of the spectacular Pajarito Plateau. Operated by the Pajarito Environmental Education Center, this showpiece facility features exciting, interactive exhibits that get visitors thinking and having fun while learning about the natural history of northern New Mexico.

Learn

Interact with docents and experts in the fields of geology, biology, ecology, astronomy, nature photography, and more at regularly scheduled PEEC programs. Check the schedule of events at http://peecnature.org/events/.

Planetarium

Would you rather look up? Boldly rocket through the solar system in the state-of-the-art planetarium, or experience the clear night skies of Northern New Mexico. Visit http://peecnature.org/events/planetarium/ for a listing of shows and events.

Geology

Discover the geologic forces that shaped the extraordinary landscapes of the Pajarito Plateau. Find yourself on a large-scale topographical map of Los Alamos and journey through the Vertical Mile of Diversity of the surrounding landscapes.

Wildlife

A diverse range of native species call this picturesque setting home. The hands-on exhibits allow you to feel their fur, touch their feathers, and even examine their skulls and scat. The Wildlife Observation Room is a great place to view outdoor critters that visit our certified wildlife habitat.

Animals

Watch live animals – including native fish species, canyon tree frogs, lizards, salamanders, and insects. You can even hold one of our friendly snakes!

Hike

Stroll through the outdoor pollinator, water-wise, and native flower gardens. Or, take the trail that leaves directly from the Nature Center and hike into a beautiful, forested canyon. Download the free Los Alamos Trails app to search for a nearby trail that fits your personal hiking preferences.

Plants

Did you see stunning wildflowers on your hike or around Northern New Mexico? Investigate your discoveries in the Jemez Mountain Herbarium, which houses over 3,000 species of plants from the surrounding area.

Kids

Explore the Children’s Discovery Area. There kids can act as local wildlife on “Discovery Mountain,” the miniature Pajarito Plateau. They can also put on a puppet show, snuggle up with a book, or move to our Naturalist Desk and examine the natural world with our high-definition video microscope!

Want to get outside? Run wild in the outdoor Nature Play Area!

What Will You Discover?