Quest is a nature center within Latta Nature Preserve, 6345 Sample Road, Huntersville, North Carolina.
Quest is a destination for outdoor recreation and environmental education in North Mecklenburg County. Nestled inside the Latta Nature Preserve, Quest is the place to go to learn, play and explore the wonders of water, woods, and wildlife. Carolina Raptor Center will also be joining this facility soon.
Carolina Raptor Center, a neighbor in Latta Nature Preserve, is moving its operations to Quest. Raptor programs are started to take place at Quest.
Latta is a gateway to Mountain Island Lake and provides a perfect place to launch kayaks onto Gar Creek and Mountain Island Lake, including an ADA accessible ramp. There are many places to fish. Those 16 and older need a North Carolina fishing license.
The preserve includes 16 miles of trails, and is the only only public Mecklenburg County property open to horseback riding, with 13 miles of those trails designated as horseback and hiking trails. The remaining three are just for hiking.
One section of trails has become known as a year-long site for fairy houses and is a fun place to explore with young children. One of the most popular events is the annual Fairy House Festival in February.
Events at Quest and Latta Nature Preserve
Visit Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation’s activity search website for even more events. Some have fees. Keep in mind that for most of the events you need to call in advance and register online. Also check out the intended age range.
To register, find the event in Park and Recreation’s activity search website or call the phone number for the nature center. We provide links to register and for more information for each event, when available.
Here are just a very few of the upcoming events!
Woodland Wanders: Animal Charades
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
10 to 11 a.m.
Latta
Free (register at above link)
Wander the forest through child-led exploration. This fully outdoor playdate is designed for children and their caregivers. Start with a short group activity designed just for little ones and finish with free play in nature. Please dress for the weather. This program meets at Shelter #3.
Craft and Hike: Woolen Felted Ornaments
Saturday, December 13, 2025
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Quest
$6 for county residents; $7 for non-residents
Create some holiday magic with wool-felted holiday ornaments using cookie cutters! While the ornaments dry, we’ll stretch our legs with a hike.
Best for ages 10+ – anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Wellness Wednesday Fitness Hike
December 17, 2025
9 to 11 a.m.
Latta
Free (register at above link)
Ages 18+
Start your day on the right foot with a brisk morning hike. This moderate-paced guided hike will be around 4-5 miles as we get our heart rate up and take in the views.
Animal Meet & Greet
December 20, 2025
January 10, 2025
10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Quest
Free (register at above link)
Get up close and personal with some of the Nature Center residents in this wild encounter! You might meet a snake, turtle or even something slimy.
Evergreen Nature Crafts
Sunday, December 21, 2025
1:30 to 3 p.m.
Quest
Free
What trees are still green this time of year? Evergreens! Find creative ways to utilize those leaves, needles, and pinecones you find on the ground year-round.
New Year’s Eve Luminary Walk
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
5 to 8 p.m.
Latta (meet by waterfront)
$6 for county residents; $7 for non-residents; kids under age 3 admitted for free (register at above link)
Take a walk in the woods illuminated by the moon and luminaries on the last night of the year. Celebrate 2025 by the campfire and enjoy s’mores and cocoa after your stroll!
This program is for all ages – bring a friend or the whole family. Kids under 3 are free.
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