JBLM News
Winter Activities on JBLM By Tammy Shoop, Directorate of Public Works Environmental Outreach Joint Base Lewis-McChord has much to offer in the way of history, culture, and activities. Winter is the perfect time to learn something new about this unique installation. There are approximately 300 historic buildings, structures, and objects dating between 1917 and 1948 are preserved within the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Garrison Historic District. The historic district is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, and is listed in the Washington Heritage Register. You can learn about historical buildings through the National Park Service website. Take a stroll in the Lewis Garrison Historic District, there are interpretative signs everywhere to help visualize what was there before, and how the space is being used now. Be sure to check out the Lewis Army Museum- it has beautiful architecture and an outside tank display. Even though there are restrictions for entry into the museum (come back again, post-Covid), it’s a great spot to see historical equipment outside. Heritage Hill, on McChord, has historical aircraft displaying the Air Force legacy. You can walk through the parked aircraft and get a sense of history. This site also overlooks McChord Airfield and has one of the best views of Mt. Rainier on the installation. If you are looking for a place to take the kids and the dog for a walk, why not Porter Hills Trail on McChord or McKay Marsh? Both sites are easily accessible and offer an easy option on JBLM. McKay Marsh has interpretative signage, and a platform that overlooks the marsh- great for bird watching in any weather. Did you know we have federally protected species on JBLM? There are Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly, Mazama pocket gopher, streaked horned lark, Puget Sound steelhead and Coho salmon are federally threatened. Keeping active during the winter months helps promote a sustainable lifestyle. Meet your “New Year, New You” goals by making a plan to add more physical activity. You can track your exercise, healthy food choices, and try new activities to keep focused on your goals. When you schedule outdoor activities have a backup plan in case weather or overcrowding interferes with your day. Always check with your destination before you go to make sure they are open, and the hours haven’t changed. The JBLM Environmental Division website has much to offer, click on ‘Cultural’ for a summary of JBLM history. Follow us on the Sustainable Facebook page for more ideas. JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD - Cultural Resources JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD - JBLM Fish and Wildlife. JBLM MWR TEAM MCCHORD National Park Service Lewis-McChord Communities
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