Hand made and rough hewn structures made from found materials invite nature play for all ages.
Focus on the sounds in Timber Tumble. Sound bathing can contribute to clearer thinking, better communication and improved healing. The simplicity of focusing on the sounds of wooden balls moving over rock or wood, or striking miniature bells helps to increase mental clarity and focus by reducing stress and improving mood.
Made possible with generous support from the Ann and Henry Gallagher Family.
Wheelchair Accessibility/What to Expect: Timber Tumble spans two outdoor locations accessible by trail from Science Park by going through the walking tunnel under the train tracks. One site is in the woods, the other site is at the far side of the meadow, and both are accessible from the newly resurfaced Meadow Loop Trail. A rough or all-terrain wheelchair/jogger is recommended. Ground surfaces include compacted crushed stone, compacted dirt path, soft pine needle forest floor, and rough woods chips. Structures are sized for adults and may require a partner’s assistance to access all features and retrieve balls from tracks or that have bounced to the forest floor. Some components may not be easily accessible from a wheelchair due to the natural topography of the forest floor.
July 18, 2025
Explore Play Grove! Our wooded nature playscape invites you to swing, climb, build and play your way through whatever your day brings. Regardless of your age, outdoor hands-on play offers a variety of mental health benefits including improved mood, enhanced creativity, and the development of stronger social and cognitive skills.
July 18, 2025
Our newly resurfaced Meadow Loop Trail is walker, wheelchair and stroller accessible, inviting those with mobility restrictions into nature to the banks of the beautiful Connecticut River. Exploring in nature provides a break from overstimulation and mental clutter, allowing for mental restoration and reduced rumination. Plus, nature exposure has been linked to increased happiness and overall well-being.