It’s a new year and for many people, exercise and self-care are high on the list for new year’s resolutions. The Era rounded up some experiences, both physical and virtual, to help kickstart such goals in 2021.
It may be cold outside, though that doesn’t stop Allegany State Park from organizing activities to get people out and moving. For example, at 4:30 p.m. every Tuesday and 1 p.m. every Saturday, the park hosts winter snowshoe hikes. Meeting places and hikes vary.
Participants are asked to dress for the weather, bring a flashlight, water, a snack and “a sense of adventure.” Additionally, those without snowshoes need not worry, as the park has several pairs to use for free during the program.
Pre-registration for these walks is required. For more information and the location of the weekly hike, contact the Environmental Education/Recreation Department at 716-354-9101, ext. 232 or AlleganySP@parks.ny.gov. Call to reserve snowshoes by 11 a.m. the day of each hike.
Starting at 4:30 p.m. every Wednesday, the Environmental Education Department at Allegany State Park also offers a guided hike with a park naturalist, with different locations each week. Snowshoes are not necessary, though participants can bring their own if the weather permits.
Those interested can call 716-354-9101, ext. 232 to register, as there are limited spots available.
For both of the aforementioned events, masks are required and individuals are asked to stay home if they do not feel well. Programs may be cancelled due to changes in COVID-19 restrictions, so always make sure to check and pre-register before attending.
The Kinzua Bridge State Park has virtual experiences via Microsoft Teams available for those who’d like to experience nature but cannot leave the house due to illness or other reasons.
To register for any of the following programs, email Zach McCloskey at zmccloskey@pa.gov. After registering, a link to participate in the program via Microsoft Teams will be sent. Individuals are asked to register by 4 p.m. the Thursday before each program. All programs are free and family-friendly.
From 10-10:30 a.m. this Friday, they will be hosting “Winter Birding for Beginners.” Attendees are invited to join the park educator and learn about the tools birdwatchers use, as well as common species seen at the park.
From 2-2:30 p.m. on Jan. 22, they will be hosting “Owls of Pennsylvania,” where attendees can learn about the adaptations of these nocturnal birds and which species can be found in Pennsylvania.
From 10-10:30 a.m. on Jan. 29, they will be hosting a program on bluebirds, which will educate individuals on bluebirds and other cavity-nesting birds found along the park trails.
Lastly, from 2-2:45 p.m. on Jan. 29, they will be hosting a program on elk in Pennsylvania. The program will educate on the history of elk in PA, their biology and habits, along with how the herd has flourished since their return from being extirpated from the state.
