Getting outside, finally!
Don't let this warm spell pass you by! It might be fleeting, but every moment of sunshine is precious after the long winter! Grab your dog, friends, family, or even just yourself, and head out to enjoy what outdoor spaces Medford has to offer.
Ugh, this winter has been brutal, right? I swear, I practically hibernated until the sun decided to grace us with its presence again. But this week we're getting some actual sunshine (and maybe even some warmth?!) and I am SO here for it. Let's soak up every minute because, you know, NJ weather.....it may not last long!
So, where are my fellow Medford peeps heading to enjoy this little slice of heavenly weather? Here are a few of my favorite places to "touch grass" in Medford. Heck, as glued to the internet as I tend to be, even I like to put the phone away and get in back to the earth's beauty for a while.
Freedom Barks - where doggy dreams come true!
This place is seriously the best. Run by amazing volunteers and located at 86 Union Street (behind Freedom Park), it's like a doggie paradise! Trails, agility equipment, fenced in doggy runs – you name it, they got it. And no wonder – Rover.com named it the #1 Dog Park in NJ, and USA Today put it in their top 10 for the whole state! Check out their flyer here. Your pup is probably ready to stretch their legs & run just as much as we all are, so bring your buddy out for some off leash (or leashed, whichever you're comfy with) fun! Before you grab the leash & head over, know that there are some rules for using the dog park, it's not a free for all! Read about them here, on Medford Township's website.
It looks like this pup is taking his own selfie at the park, how could we not use this pic?
Now, before you unleash your furry friend, just a few quick things to make sure everyone has a paw-some time! Remember, leashes are a must everywhere except the designated off-leash area – safety first! Oh, and don't forget to clean up after your pup – we want Freedom Barks to stay sparkling clean, the volunteers work so hard to keep it amazing so please do your part! It's all about being responsible and respectful so everyone can have a tail-wagging good time!
that's my pup in the middle, enjoying the dog park!
Not sure it'll be warm enough to let the pups enjoy the creek & have a dip, but, that can be on the next visit.....you might want to pack a towel in your car juuuuuust in the event your pupper decides it's warm enough for a dip! It's been a long winter, after all!
Looking forward, get ready for a paw-some celebration at Freedom Park on March 29th, from 10am to 2pm. Freedom Barks is joining forces with Rolling Thunder Inc. Chapter 4 to honor K9 Veterans on K9 Veterans Day! They provide vital assistance to the war dogs, and their handlers, who retire from the US Military without the support or care they need. What a fabulous cause!
Visit Freedom Barks on Facebook, their website, or best yet, in real life!
Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge - Get Wild (Without Leaving Town!)
Listen, I know you love bringing your fur baby everywhere, but Cedar Run is already bursting with adorable critters – feathered and furry! So leave the pups at home for this adventure through the 171 acres that is Cedar Run. You can stroll along a super easy half-mile path that circles Cedar Run Lake and leads right to the Wildlife Housing Area. Alternatively, if you're feeling adventurous, head straight to the Nature Center for a trail map and explore some of the deeper woods.
Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge
Cedar Run is home to at least 50 wild animals – all rescued creatures who need a little extra love because they can't survive on their own in the wild. Their goal is always to rehabilitate these animals, but some still can't go live on their own, so Cedar Run gives them the safe & healthy life they deserve. If you get a chance to go on a tour, you'll hear all about their stories. From bald eagles, to raccoons, deer, crow, falcons, vultures and more your family will love their time at Cedar Run.
A variety of animals at Cedar Run!
Psst...pro tip! The path to the Wildlife Housing Area is stroller and wheelchair friendly – perfect for families with little ones or anyone who needs a more accessible route. It's awesome that Cedar Run makes sure everyone can enjoy it! Admission costs $10 for adults and $5 for kids over 3, but if you plan on going more than once, a membership is totally worth it! Plus, proceeds benefit these adorable critters in need, so win win!
Barton Arboretum & Nature Preserve - Hidden Gem Alert!
Most people know Medford Leas as that retirement community, but did you know they have an accredited Level 1 Arboretum open to the public? Yep, you can explore this beautiful space from dusk till dawn! The daffodils are starting to bloom, so it's the perfect time for a stroll. Trail maps are available at the reception desk or download them ahead of time by clicking here.
Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Atrium Garden, nestled right in the heart of the Medford campus reception area. A soothing waterfall cascades alongside vibrant trees and a peaceful pond where colorful carp glide through the water. Keep an eye out for resident box turtles sunning themselves on the rocks! This charming garden is just one of many hidden gems waiting to be discovered at Barton Arboretum. The meditation garden is particularly beautiful as well, a place to sit, remember & reflect. If calm tranquility is what you're seeking, look no further. Our bird watching friends can enjoy what is rumored to be an amazing bird watching oasis! So if you're looking for robins, a tufted titmouse, or cardinals....(as my bird knowledge is now officially exhausted) bring your binoculars!
Even as winter lingers, Barton Arboretum offers a glimpse of spring's promise – vibrant colors, delicate blooms, and the sound of birdsong. So get out there and explore "Out and About" at the Arboretum. Follow Medford Leas on facebook to get updates about what's out & about at the arboretum, or head over to the Arboretum's website to find out more details about this hidden gem at 1 Medford Leas Way!
Okay, neighbors, get out there and enjoy that sunshine before the winter temps creep back in!