ClearWater Conservancy’s Centred Outdoors program continues its free weekly outdoor adventure series July 31 and Aug. 3 at Gray’s Woods Preserve in Patton Township. Guided hikes will be led along trails throughout the forested property while information is shared about the property’s ecological significance as it relates to the region’s water and wildlife.

Gray’s Woods Preserve is a 149-acre property that was acquired by Patton Township in 2017 through its Open Space program.

In February 2022, ClearWater Conservancy and Patton Township, with support from the Hamer Foundation, finalized a conservation easement to permanently protect the preserve and make sure it is always open to the public for outdoor recreation use.

Gray’s Woods Preserve is located within a PA Natural Heritage Inventory Core Area known as the Barrens Biological Diversity Area, where sensitive habitat supports rare plant and animal species.

A groundwater recharge area sits below the property and contributes to the region’s drinking water supplies while also supporting fish and wildlife as water flows toward Spring Creek.

Trails through the Gray’s Woods Preserve cover a wide variety of terrain along rare natural features. The preserve connects to Gray’s Woods Park and State Game Lands 176, commonly referred to as the Scotia Barrens. Gray’s Woods Preserve is managed by Patton Township and open to the public all year. The Purple Lizard Scotia Map contains specific details of the history and trail system in this area.

The public is invited to join Centred Outdoors for guided hikes on July 31 and Aug. 3. On Sunday at 1 and 3 p.m. and Wednesday at 6 p.m., Bridget Whyte, Centred Outdoors adventure coordinator, will lead participants on a 2-mile walk through the preserve.

At 2 p.m. on Sunday, participants can join Beth Shaha, master life coach, for a wellness activity, “Nurture Yourself with Nature.” During this time, participants will be guided on a multi-sensory, easy walk to heighten creativity and discover new possibilities. Please bring a towel or a mat for this activity.

To access Gray’s Woods Preserve, go to Gray’s Woods Park, 1500 Grays Woods Boulevard, Port Matilda.

Centred Outdoors is a program of ClearWater Conservancy, and all events are free and open to the public. Visit www.centredoutdoors.org to view full event details, safety and planning tips and the entire 2022 schedule.

PLANNING TO ATTEND?

Dates:

• Sunday, July 31, with guided hikes at 1 and 3 p.m. and a wellness activity at 2 p.m.

• Wednesday, Aug. 3, with a guided hike at 6 p.m.

Address:

• Gray’s Woods Park, 1500 Gray’s Woods Blvd, Port Matilda, PA 16870.

Parking:

• Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty:

• Moderate difficulty. A 2-mile guided hike with some uneven terrain.

Pets:

• Pets on a leash are welcome.

What to bring:

• A refillable water bottle.

• Sun protection including a hat and sunscreen.

• Comfortable walking or hiking shoes.

• Long pants and high socks for tick and insect bite prevention.

• Child carrier/backpack is recommended for very young children.