People of all ages and fitness levels are invited to attend Sunday's Centred Outdoors Adventure at Spring Creek Canyon, co-hosted by ClearWater Conservancy and Spring Creek Chapter of Trout Unlimited. Visitors will discover a wide variety of plant and wildlife in the canyon and along the creek during a 2.2 mile hike with knowledgeable guides including naturalist, outdoor writer and photographer Mark Nale.
Along the way, hikers will stop and learn about turtles and amphibians from the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission and take a close look at macroinvertebrates such as crayfish that live in the stream. Bob Carline, retired fisheries biologist, will explain why the population of these small organisms is an important indicator of water quality.History enthusiasts will enjoy learning about General Philip Benner and his role in establishing Benner Township from Kevin Abbey, ClearWater Conservancy’s Land Conservation Manager.
Sunday's adventure will also be the first chance for many to explore the newly completed 1.1 mile trail that connects the Canyon’s Shiloh Road entrance with a new trailhead along Rock Road in Benner Township. This project was made possible through collaboration between PA-DCNR, Benner Township and ClearWater Conservancy.
The Spring Creek Canyon Adventure will run from 2-5 p.m., with guided hikes beginning at 2 and 4 p.m. A second event will take place at the canyon from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, with guided hikes at 5 and 7 p.m. Those who are registered for the program through the website, www.centredoutdoors.org, will be able to enter a special code from the event to earn an e-trophy and climb the online leaderboard. Participants who earn at least 10 trophies by Aug. 15 will be eligible to win end-of-season prizes such as outdoor gear and gift cards.
Centred Outdoors will continue hosting free, guided adventures to Centre County residents and visitors every Sunday from 2-5 p.m. and every Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. through Aug. 15. Look to the Good Life section of the CDT every week and www.centredaily.com for complete details about the upcoming Centred Outdoors destination.
Going to today’s event? Here’s what you need to know:
What: Centred Outdoors: Spring Creek Canyon Adventure
When: 2-5 p.m. Sunday and 5-8 p.m. Wednesday
Where: SGL 333 Parking, Bellefonte, PA 16823 (Exit 76/Shiloh Road off I-99)
What to bring:
A refillable water bottle
Sun protection including a hat and sunscreen
Bug repellant
Comfortable shoes (hiking boots are not necessary)
A light snack such as hand fruit, granola bar, etc.
Difficulty of hike: The hike is easy and suitable for all ages and fitness levels
Hike times: Hikes begin at 2 and 4 p.m. on Sunday, 5 and 7 p.m. on Wednesday
Additional Information:
This is a pet friendly destination. Please keep your pet on a leash and clean up after your pet.
Portable restrooms are available at this destination
Next week’s adventure: Poe Paddy Tunnel on June 17 and June 20
