HOLDERNESS — Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is nearing a major milestone during its 60th anniversary season, as it prepares to welcome the two millionth visitor to the Live Animal Exhibit Trail since the Science Center opened. The two millionth trail visitor will receive a lifetime membership to Squam Lakes Natural Science Center and two passes for a Squam Lake Cruise. The milestone is expected to be reached before the conclusion of the 2026 season on Sunday, Nov. 1.
Since its founding in 1966, the Science Center has spent six decades connecting people with nature through up-close animal encounters, immersive outdoor experiences, and hands-on environmental education. Early visitors explored exhibits such as Raccoon Hollow, Deer Knoll, and Snake Island. Today, the Science Center’s Live Animal Exhibit Trail features native wildlife including black bears, mountain lions, river otters, and raptors, continuing the Science Center's commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of New Hampshire's ecosystems. Guided Squam Lake Cruises, led by naturalists, offer views of common loons, bald eagles and the surrounding mountains.
“As we approached the 60th year, we did some digging into the visitation numbers dating back six decades and realized that at the beginning of the year, we were within 65,500 of the two millionth visitor,” said Iain MacLeod, executive director of the Science Center, reflecting on the milestone. “Now we are just 3,200 shy of that milestone. I look forward to greeting that very special visitor in the next three weeks.”
As Squam Lakes Natural Science Center looks beyond its 60th year, the organization remains committed to advancing understanding of ecology by exploring New Hampshire’s natural world and creating opportunities for visitors to experience the joy, connection, and wonder of nature.
The Science Center will remain open through Sunday, Nov. 1. For more information about Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, visit nhnature.org.
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