Programs Set for October at Parker Dam

PENFIELD – Staff members at the Parker Dam State Park have announced programs that have been set for the month of October.

Saturday, Oct. 5

Trail of New Giants: 

10 a.m. – outside CCC Museum

Take an autumn hike through what should be about the peak of fall color at Parker Dam.  We will traverse the Vista Spur to take in the view from the park’s highest elevation.  Please wear appropriate shoes for a hiking trail.

History Walk: 

2 p.m. – Beach House steps

Join us as we walk around Parker Lake, discussing the area’s timeline and how things have changed.  The Parker Dam area has not always looked the way it does today.  Please be aware that we will cross on the rocks below the spillway along our way.

Saturday, Oct. 12

Leaf ID Hike: 

1 p.m. – outside Park Office 

If you have a leaf collection due, this hike may provide you with an opportunity to collect many species of leaves.  If not collecting leaves, you will collect ample knowledge of tree and leaf identification to assist you while afield in the future.

Saturday, Oct. 19

Parker Dam’s 14th Annual Fall Festival and Pumpkin Float

12 p.m. – 7 p.m. – Day Use Area 

Come celebrate the traditions of autumn.  The main festival runs all afternoon with opportunities to learn heritage skills, watch folks practice their crafts and experience activities that may not be as common as they once were.

There will be a costume parade at the end of the afternoon, with a trunk-or-treat to follow.  For more event details and exact times, please pick up a festival flyer at the Park Office or contact the park at 814-765-0630 or parkerdamsp@pa.gov.

Saturday, Oct. 26

Black Bears in Pennsylvania: 

10 a.m. – Beach House steps 

Join us as we discuss how Black bears in Penn’s Woods are so well adapted at surviving in their habitat.  There may well be more Black bears in the Commonwealth than at any other time.  We’ll also learn about ways to coexist when there are bears in the area.  If the weather is poor, meet in the Environmental Education Classroom.

Beaver Dam Trail: 

1 p.m. – outside Park Office 

Come along as we look for signs of wildlife on one of the park’s more popular trails.  Many types of habitat can be seen along the way and hopefully many signs left by wildlife as well.  Please wear appropriate shoes for a hiking trail.