Nature Centre
Scales Nature Park is an adventure for the whole family! Our location has two main areas to explore: an outdoor nature park with walking trails, and an indoor nature centre full of native and exotic reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
Open for guided tours by appointment!
Come inside to get up close with some animals!
Our nature centre features an exhibit hall of animals, as well as our gift shop, classroom, and friendly staff who are always excited to answer your questions! The centre has washroom facilities and is partially wheelchair-accessible; using the wheelchair entrance requires travelling over grass. Just outside we have plenty of parking and a picnic area, should you wish to bring a lunch. We ask that you bring reusable food containers and utensils to help reduce packaging waste.
The Animals
Come visit Canada's largest collection of native reptiles and amphibians!
Canada is home to many reptiles and amphibians, but due to their elusive nature, they can be very hard to spot in the wild. Our custom-built indoor enclosures let you take a peek into their lives, letting you learn more about the amazing world we live in. You will also have opportunities to get up close for some hands-on experiences with many of our animals. Friendly staff are always on hand to answer any questions and talk to you about our collection, as well as local wildlife. If you would like a more in depth, personalized experience, book a private tour or educational program!
The Park
Explore nature’s beauty on our walking trails!
Scales Nature Park boasts 21 hectares of natural wetland and upland habitat, with 4 km of trails around and through our hardwood forests, hemlock groves, ponds, streams and wetlands! Look out for all sorts of wild animals, including ospreys, turkeys, beavers, chipmunks, gartersnakes, and toads. A self-guided tour using a trail guide and numbered sign posts is available. Note that the trails are seasonal, open only in the summer. For our current trail status, click here.