Several regular and one-time events have been announced for various dates throughout July at Kinzua Bridge State Park and one adventure scheduled for Elk State Park.
‘Thrush Thursdays Wildlife Walk’ will be held weekly, at 4 p.m. on Thursdays. Participants will enjoy an educational walk around the General Kane Trail and learn about the plants and animals of the area. Not only will the activity provide fresh air and exercise, but it will be possible to see a variety of wildlife, including black bear, turkey, grouse, white-tailed deer, beautiful song birds and wildflowers, a variety of mushrooms, medicinal plants and much more! Meet at the Visitor Center.
For the birdwatcher, at 8 a.m. on Saturdays, there is ‘Saturday Morning Birdwatching.’
Get a chance to see the diverse array of birds that are in the park, including Indigo buntings, scarlet tanagers, bluebirds, ruffed grouse, a variety of warblers, as well as many other species of birds. Bring a camera for some great pictures! For those who do not have their own, park staff have a limited number of binoculars that can be loaned out. Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
At noon on July 20, the program ‘Climate Change Escape Room’ will be held. Participants can test skills and knowledge about environmental science and natural history and try to escape the Climate Change Escape Room. Up to 12 people can play at a time, and the program is free.
Registration is required, as there are limited time slots. However, walk-ins may be available if the escape room is not fully booked.
The Climate Change Escape Room will be located in the Classroom at the Kinzua Bridge Visitor Center. To reserve a time, please call the Park Office at (814)778-5467.
At 1 p.m. on July 27, the program ‘Trains and History Saturdays: Trains Across the Kinzua Bridge’ will take place.
The educational program will be presented by train enthusiast Mike Adams, who will share information about the trains that crossed over the Kinzua Bridge since it was built in 1882.
Finally, at 2p.m. on July 28, ‘Critters in the Classroom’ will allow children to do a fun bug craft and learn about the important role that bugs play on the planet.
Additionally, at 11 a.m. on July 21, the ‘Kayak Seven Mile Run’ will take place at Elk State Park.
A two hour guided kayak tour will include the chance to learn about the history of the area, including the town of Instaner, a village that once stood where participants will be kayaking. Also, get a chance to see the wildlife along the way – maybe even a bald eagle! Bring your own kayak, or if you do not have one, the park will have some for use, free of charge. Reservation of a kayak is recommended, as there are limited numbers available. Meet at the Instaner Boat Launch at Elk State Park. For more information or to reserve a kayak, contact the Park Office at (814)778-5467.
