1. What if it rains or rain is predicted?
The activities will go on as scheduled, rain or shine, unless severe weather becomes a threat. 

2. What should I wear? 
Temperatures in late October can range from warm to cold so plan accordingly.  Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers.  The safest footwear is closed-toed athletic or hiking shoes.  Please don’t wear flip-flops.  They do not protect your feet.  You might want to bring a hat, sunglasses, sun screen, and bug spray.

If you will be hiking in the creek, plan on the deeper water coming to about knee level.  Waders will be available.  You may choose to wear water shoes/sandals and shorts or pants that can be rolled up to just above your knees.  Think about bringing a zip-lock bag for your keys, camera, and cell phone.  A small hand towel and dry shoes and socks are also a good idea. 

3. May I go barefoot during the creek hike or invertebrate ID activity?
For the sake of safety, all visitors at ANC are expected to wear shoes at all times.  No exceptions.  Flip flops are not considered protective footwear and are strongly discouraged.

4. May I bring a child with me? 
In a word, no.  While ANC offers many family-friendly activities during the year, the Step-Out day is for adults 18 years and older.  No exceptions.

5. May I come early or stay after the day’s activities in order to explore on my own?
The gate will not be open early in the morning.  The day’s activities end at 4:00 pm.  The facility closes at 5:00 pm.   You are welcome to stay until closing and explore the trails and our beautiful Natureplex.

6. I have special dietary restrictions.  Can they be accommodated?
The breakfast and lunch offerings will include vegetarian options.  If you have other dietary needs, please call Matt Vines at (334) 285-4550 no later than October 20^th.  While we cannot promise to meet every need, we will try to accommodate reasonable requests. 

7. I have mobility issues.  Is ANC wheelchair/walker/mobility scooter accessible? 
Many, but not all areas of ANC are accessible to those with mobility issues.  Keep in mind that the footing on our trails may affect your ability to use non-motorized mobility aids. See question 8.  Call Matt Vines at (334) 285-4550 if you have more questions about accessibility.

8. Describe the trails at ANC. 
There are 3 trail systems that total approximately 5 miles.  With few exceptions, the trails are wide and well-groomed.  The footing is wood chips and/or crushed stone.  Some trails are hilly but not extremely steep.  For your comfort and safety, wear sturdy athletic or hiking footwear.  No flip flops please.

9. May I leave an on-going activity to explore on my own or return to the Natureplex?
Discuss this with the naturalist conducting your activity.  In some cases, you might be encouraged to stay with the group to minimize your chances of getting lost.  If you are in the creek, you must stay with your naturalist for your safety.

10. May I bring my own equipment for bird watching, fishing, archery, etc.?
Feel free to bring your own binoculars, fishing gear, or waders.  If you want to bring your own archery equipment, you must use target arrows and the pull on your bow must not exceed 20 pounds.

11. I’ve never done some of these activities.  Will there be instructors on hand?
If you need some one-on-one help, the naturalist in charge of the activity will be able to give you some individual coaching as time permits.

12. Will there be snakes, especially venomous snakes at the Meet the Herps activity?
While ANC does not possess or use venomous reptiles in their programs, a few non-venomous native snakes will be presented during this activity.  Participants may choose to touch a live snake if they wish. 

13. I have a new camera.  Will the facilitator conducting the Outdoor Photography activity be able to teach me to use my camera?
The Outdoor Photography facilitator’s job is to identify locations on the property that are particularly suited for photographs.  While the facilitator may be able to give a person some one-on-one help, this activity is not an introduction to photography class.          

14. Do I need a fishing license for the fishing activity?
No license is needed.  You will be fishing on private property.

15. May I keep the fish I catch?
No.  All fishing will be catch-and-release.

16. May I bring a kayak or other small boat to use during the fishing activities?
There will be enough room for anglers to fish from the banks of our ponds.  Both ponds are small.  Anglers using boats would run the risk of getting in each other’s way as well as getting in the way of those fishing from the banks.  Leave the boats at home please.  For the same reasons, you may not use ANC canoes or kayaks.

17. What kind of bait will be provided for the fishing activities?
We will have pieces of hotdog available.  You may bring your own lures and/or bait.  NO LIVE MINNOWS PLEASE. 

18. How do I sign up?
Purchase your ticket here: https://www.alabamawildlife.org/shop/natureplex-events/104/
Then, please email mvines@alabamawildlife.org with your activity selections for each time slot after you purchase a ticket.

Planning on staying the night? Possible Hotels nearby:
  - Key West Inn 2275 Cobbs Ford Rd, Millbrook, AL 36054
  - Sleep Inn & Suites 2295 Cobbs Ford Rd, Millbrook, AL 36054
  - Hampton Inn & Suites 2590 Cobbs Ford Rd., Prattville, 36066
  - Howard Johnson 2585 Cobbs Ford Rd., Prattville, 36066
  - Marriot @ Capitol Hill 2500 Legends Circle, Prattville, AL  36066    (at Robert Trent Jones Golf Course)      
  - Holiday Inn Express & Suites 203 Legend Court, Prattville, AL  36066