It wouldn’t take much effort to make a list of things that property owners love to do an Innsbrook in the spring and summer. Fishing… swimming…. paddleboating… skipping rocks… catching tadpoles. The list would get pretty long, pretty quick. But just because the temperatures are dropping and the leaves are falling doesn’t mean there are fewer things to do at Innsbrook. In fact, the fall and winter seasons hold some of Mother Nature’s best mysteries. Come explore – the Innsbrook woods are waiting for you!

Barred owls are courting. Listen for the call: “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you?” Plus, great horned owls are courting, too. Listen for their call: “Hoo. Hoo-oo. Hoo-oo.”

Photo by Gary Barton

Mallards are flying through (just look overhead!) and Canada geese are active around lakes. Sometimes you’ll even catch them ice skating on frozen lakes.

Photo by the Rentfrows

Red fox and deer are very active this time of year. Listen for rustling leaves and look closely!

Photo by Heidi Morice

Milkweed pods are bursting open in late fall. Don’t miss the chance to feel their velvety center.

Photo by Cindy Bowers

Look in the leafless treetops for bold-faced hornet nests and old bird nests. What treasures!

Photo by Christine Ashworth

Put out food for winter birds. Watching them at the feeder is better than any TV show.

Photo by the Bartons

Christmas ferns are a green surprise on the leaf-covered forest floor. The sign of frost flowers will stop you in your tracks. You won’t believe your eyes.

For many years now, bald eagles have been spotted around Lakes Alpine and Aspen in the winter and some even year-round! And yes, they’re just as regal and awesome as you’d expect.

Photo by Kurt White

So you see, there’s no need to burrow away in your Innsbrook chalet, cottage, home or condo – there’s still plenty to explore in the forests around you! Use these photography tips to capture your favorite moments.