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Sping Season Family Trail Hike, The Institute
The Naturalist Series of Outdoor Programs
Part of a series of Appalachian Trail Hikes, planned for the last Sunday of each month, January–May 2022
Hike with us along a portion of the legendary Appalachian Trail! We are fortunate to live in an area that the Trail crosses through in several nearby locations.
Led by an Institute naturalist, the hike will explore some of the wonders to be found in the woods and along the byways.
Rendezvous point for the hike will be sent upon registration. Make sure to dress warmly for the weather.
The April 24 hike is for families with children age 7 and older.
This event is FREE (donations accepted).
Pre-registration is required; register via email at info@NatureAndCultureInstitute.org
A storm date will be determined later if needed.
COVID protocols in accordance with CDC and PA DOH guidelines will be followed.
Bloomin’ Walks #1: National Get Outside Day, The Institute
June 12th, 2021 * 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Dr. Doris Goldman will lead a family walk through the Appalachian Trail in Michaux Forest to observe and learn about the blooming Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia), the State Flower of Pennsylvania.
Blossoms look like folded origami flowers.
The walk is free, but pre-registration is required. Email the Institute at: info@natureandcultureinsitute.org
Safety measures in place for this event.
Check out Bloomin’ Walk #2 HERE…Celebrate Summer Solstice!
The Institute, Winter Season Family Trail Hike
Sunday, January 10th, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM, Waynesboro, PA
Hike with us along a portion of the legendary Appalachian Trail!
We are fortunate to live in an area that the Trail crosses through in several nearby locations.
Led by an Institute naturalist, the hike will explore some of the wonders to be found in the woods and along the byways.
Rendezvous point for the hike and more details coming soon. Make sure to dress warmly for the weather.
This event is FREE (donations accepted).
Enrollment is limited to 25 and pre-registration is required; register via email at info@NatureAndCultureInstitute.org
COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed.
Register Here
On The Move in Franklin County
Franklin County Visitors Bureau announced the release of its newest publication On the Move in Franklin County, featuring year-long recreation for the whole family. The guide, available in print and online here, features year-long fun including skydiving, golfing, visiting the local environmental centers, fly-fishing, tennis, yoga, hydrotherapy floats, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, swimming and much more!
Situated in the heart of the beautiful Cumberland Valley, Franklin County compliments four-seasons of outdoor enjoyment. It is home to two national trails— the Appalachian Trail and the Tuscarora Trail, four PA State Parks and the lands of two state forests. Topping off the plentiful state and national trail options are more than three dozen municipal and local recreation areas throughout Franklin County. Whether seeking a family-friendly day of connecting with nature, taking to a quiet trail or meeting an intense outdoor challenge, Franklin County is the spot.
Franklin County contains all or part of four state parks, including Mont Alto State Park and Caledonia State Park, which are the oldest existing parks in the state. These parks are at the heart of the Pennsylvania conservation efforts and the forest lands are tied to Joseph Trimble Rothrock, the first Pennsylvania Forestry Commissioner, who was an advocate for conservation and helped found the Mont Alto Forestry School, now Penn State Mont Alto.
Other local parks and forests that have beautiful views for hiking includes Buchanan Birthplace State Park, where a large monument for Mercersburg-native and former President James Buchanan stands as well as nearly 19 acres of forest. Enjoy ice-skating, ice fishing and cross-country skiing on the lake at Cowans Gap State Park in the snowy months.
Winter is a great time to hit the trails of Whitetail Resort on skis, snowboards or even by snow tube! The resort, located in Two Top Mountain in the Tuscarora Mountains in Mercersburg, has 23 different trails from beginner hills to more advanced trails. Whitetail has gone through several renovations over the years, including longer trails, lighting on terrain for night skiing, halfpipe, a terrain park and snow tubing park with 10 lanes.
On the Move joins the seven yearly specialty publications that the Franklin County Visitors Bureau produces in their mission to promote the county, including the Franklin County Visitors Guide, Military Trail of History Guide, Fresh Food & Dining Guide, Franklin County Wedding & Event Planner and more!