SHARE:  
Graysdale Park, Grays Woods, PA
What's in store for the week of June 27?
A park, a pond, and orienteering skills!

Dear explorers,

Thanks to all of you joined us last week at the Lower Trail! Summer is now in full swing and we have lots of fun adventures planned for you, your friends, and your family!

Where are we exploring next?

Beginning Sunday, June 27, we'll be visiting Graysdale Park and Ten Acre Pond in Port Matilda for a scenic two-mile hike. The adventure begins with a walk along a paved pathway at Graysdale Park that passes by beautiful pollinator-friendly plantings. We'll then leave the park to hike along a forested trail that leads into State Game Lands 176, commonly referred to as the Scotia Barrens. We'll stop at Ten Acre pond to 'ponder' this interesting remnant of Andrew Carengie's iron ore mining operation. You can join us on the adventure this Sunday, June 27, Wednesday, June 30, or Friday, July 2 (see specific hike times below).

What new skill can I learn this week?

This week's wellness activity will sharpen your map reading skills which are essential for safely exploring the natural world around you. A local expert will be on site so you can learn basic skills such as interpreting topographic lines, map symbols, and following a basic trail map. This is a great opportunity to ask questions about what all those different lines and icons are really trying to tell you!

When can I join the adventure?

Below you'll see specific guided hike times and driving directions to Graysdale Park. This summer we will be at each of our destinations three days per week - Sundays from 12-6 p.m., Wednesdays from 9 am-1 pm, and Fridays from 6-8 p.m.

Can I bring a friend?

Yes, please bring a friend (or two or three)! All Centred Outdoors events are free, open to everyone, and suitable or able to be modified for all ages and fitness levels.

Thanks, we hope to see you this week!
Dan Trew, Adventure Coordinator
ClearWater Conservancy
Upcoming Adventures: Shaver's Creek and Lower Trail
Week of June 27:

Walk through the past as we explore an area rich in history and ecological significance. Begin with a tour of the Graysdale Park and its pollinator-friendly plantings, then take a short excursion through the State Game Lands 176 on a tour of some of the former iron exploitation sites and see the, aptly named, Ten Acre Pond.

Note: The trail begins on a paved walkway at the park, then narrows to a more forested path in the Scotia Barrens. Participants who wish to stay on a paved walkway are welcome to modify their adventure and opt out of the forested portion of the trail.

Dates and Times:

Sunday, June 27
Guided hikes: 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Wednesday, June 30
Guided hikes: 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Friday, July 2
Guided hike: 6 p.m.

This week's wellness activity:
🧭 Orienteering Skills 🧭

An expert will be present at these events to share tips for reading a trail map and basic orienteering skills. To participate, arrive 20 minutes before your guided hike time.

Week of July 4:

Take the time to slow down a bit and explore the incredible artwork throughout downtown State College. There's always something new to discover in the details of the sculptures and murals, even if you've walked by each one for years.

The walking route will feature many of the iconic downtown art pieces and also showcase some of the new pieces that have been recently added. We'll also discuss how public art benefits our community and the urban environment of downtown. 

Dates and Times:

Sunday, July 4
This will be a self-guided adventure, look for more information next week.

Wednesday, July 6
Guided walks: 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Friday, July 2
Guided walk: 6 p.m.

Mount Nittany Health Tip
Safety and Planning Tips
Check out these tips before leaving home to ensure a fun day on the trail:

  1. Remember to bring a filled water bottle on all adventures.
  2. Wear comfortable hiking/walking shoes, sun protection, and bug spray.
  3. Review these safety tips prior to your trip, including the tick prevention tips.
  4. Pets on a leash are welcome at this site. Please clean up after your pets.
  5. You may also want to pack a light snack or picnic to enjoy on your adventure.
  6. Plan to bring home and properly dispose of all trash/litter you are responsible for.
  7. Events are subject to change to adjust for changes in state and local guidelines related to COVID-19
  8. Questions? Email info@centredoutdoors.org
Map reading tips for your next adventure!
ClearWater Conservancy | 814-237-0400 | contactus@clearwaterconservancy.org