PENFIELD – The Parker Dam State Park has announced its programs for the month of January.
Wednesday, Jan. 1
First Day Hike
2 p.m. – outside Park Office
Join us on the first hike of the New Year as we traverse the Beaver Dam Trail. It’s about a two-mile trek over easy to moderate terrain. If there is significant snow, this will be a snowshoe hike; we’ll supply the snowshoes. This hike is a part of a national campaign of First Day Hikes across the country to promote healthy lifestyles and year-round use of America’s state parks.
Saturday, Jan. 4
Snowshoe Basics
10 a.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
Learn the basics of snowshoes– why we use them, how they are made, and how to get the proper fit. Historically, they were the way to get around in winter; now they are for enjoying all that winter in the outdoors has to offer. If the snow is good, come along on the Snowshoe Trek
10:30 a.m. – outside Park Office
If there is good snow on the ground, we will venture to the campground area and hike the Stumpfield and Logslide Trails. The park has a fair number of snowshoes for you to borrow if you don’t have your own. If conditions are poor, we will stick to the day-use area and work on getting comfortable while on the snowshoes. Please dress appropriately for a winter hike in the outdoors, including comfortable boots.
Warm Wildlife in Winter
2 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
They don’t have the kind of shelters that we do to keep us warm through the winter, but wildlife is adapted in many ways to survive the cold. Learn more about these animals and the many types of survival tricks that get them through the hardships of winter in the wild.
Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 25-26
Winter Family Festival
Sponsored by the Clearfield YMCA
The two-day festival will start on Saturday with a Snowmobile Fun Run, and the opening of the YMCA’s concession stand at the Beach House. Past Saturday activities have also included a Blizzard Volleyball Tournament, Ice Fishing Basics, Learn to Ice Skate, and Snowshoeing. Many activities will be dependent on snow and ice conditions. Then, on Sunday, the festival will gear up again with an Ice Harvesting demonstration, Snow Box Derby, Snowshoe Treks, Frozen Salami Sling, Backyard Birding, Cross-country Ski Basics, a Snowman Contest, and other activities. Popular events include the Almost Naked Mile Run at 3 p.m. and the Polar Bear Swim at 4 p.m., which concludes the event.
Special Notes:
Saturday, Jan. 11 is “Winter Trails Day.” Get out and enjoy one of the many trails in and around the park. Be sure to be prepared with layered clothing, water, proper footwear, and a map. Remember too- the Leave No Trace ethics of the outdoors. Winter is a wonderful time to hike the trails!
Sledding and Ice Skating at Parker Dam- When conditions allow, a sled riding area and an ice skating rink are maintained at the park. Check the “Parker Dam State Park” Facebook page or the “Winter Report” at visitPAparks.com to learn of snow and ice conditions and the availability of facilities.
Access for People with Disabilities
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the park you plan to visit. (Parker Dam State Park Complex: (814) 765-0630; parkerdamsp@pa.gov)
With at least three days notice, interpreters for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are available for educational programs.