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!
Wellness Wednesday Fitness Hike
September 17, October 1, and October 15, 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 heartrate up and take in the views.
Friday Morning Hike
Fridays: September 19 and 26, October 10 and 24, November 7 and 21, 2025
9 to 11 a.m.
Latta
Free (register at above link)
Ages 18+
Stride along the trails of Latta Nature Preserve and observe its quiet magic throughout the seasons. A skilled naturalist volunteer will accompany you to spark your curiosity in nature and answer questions about the neat plants and animals you’ll see.
This is a moderate, brisk hike. Be prepared to cover up to 4 miles in two hours. Hike will start no later than 9:05am at a new location each time. Be prepared with plenty of water.
Public Lands Day: Outdoor Film Fest
Saturday, September 27, 2025
7 to 9 p.m.
Quest
Free (follow above link to register)
All ages
It’s Public Lands Day, and activities are happening around the county. Spend your Saturday night under the stars and on the silver screen! Quest will be screening multiple short films featuring America’s Public Lands (and the adventures and stories they tell). Sneak a s’more in between films and make sure to bring your own chair.
Radical Raccoons
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
2 to 4 p.m.
Quest
Free
Age 5+
It’s Raccoon Appreciation Day at Quest! Sneak into the world of these nocturnal masked bandits. In a variety of activities and challenges you’ll discover why these creatures are so important to our ecosystem.
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