Through ClearWater Conservancy’s Centred Outdoors program, Centre County locals and visitors can experience free guided hikes and a wellness event that are open to the public at Tom Tudek Memorial Park — the most frequently visited park in the Centre Region — this coming week.
The 91-acre area includes a 3-acre butterfly garden, community garden, dog park, small horse farm, playground, pavilions and 61 acres of passive land.
Snetsinger Butterfly Garden is home to over 30 species of resident butterflies, many native bees and birds, and hundreds of native plants that serve as food and shelter for pollinators and other wildlife in the area.
The site for the butterfly garden was developed under the direction of Robert “Butterfly Bob” Snetsinger and his wife, Wendy, who created the garden as a tribute to their daughter Clare, who passed away when she was 17. Tom Tudek, who the park is named in honor of, also passed away at 17, and like Clare held a strong interest and appreciation for butterflies.
Informative guided walks approximately 90 minutes in length will take place at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday, July 9, as well as 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 13, at Tudek Park.
For those interested in alternative outdoor activities, Wellness Wednesday: Gardening and Therapeutic Landscapes will take place from 6-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 12, at Tudek Park.
The event is presented by the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Centre County and co-sponsored by the Jana Marie Foundation.
All outings will begin at the Centred Outdoors welcome table at the park, located at 400 Herman Drive, State College. There is ample parking at this site.
Attendees are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes and bring a filled water bottle, according to the event website.
Centred Outdoors recommends using a water bottle that can hold at least 32 ounces per adult. Attendees may also want to bring sunscreen, a hat, bug repellant and a light snack. Although pets are allowed, they must be kept on a leash.
Participants can also try using hiking gear — such as trekking poles, child carriers and day packs — at no cost during events through the program’s Gear Library. Reservations can be made online through the Centred Outdoors website.
The form must be filled out at least two days prior to the event.
If those interested are unable to make the aforementioned dates and times, Tudek Park and its 1.3-mile walking and running loop can be experienced all year through self-guided explorations.
More information about upcoming events through Centred Outdoors can be found at centredoutdoors.org. There will continue to be free, guided hikes offered to the public throughout the summer to encourage Centre County locals to spend more time outdoors.
