Enjoy a few miles of Hellam Hills trail while exploring the history and ecology of the autumn woods! We’ll learn to identify tree species by leaf pattern, bark texture, and fall color. We’ll examine the complex forest community from fungal partners to mighty oaks and learn how we can all be good stewards of the forest nation!

Your Guide: Peggy Eppig, Educator, Lancaster Conservancy

Peggy is an environmental historian and dynamic conservation educator who offers a hands-on approach to her presentations. She brings over thirty years of interpretive, experiential education experience for all who have an interest in saving our nature for this and future generations. Her wilder interests are in ornithology (birds), herpetology (reptiles and amphibians), silvology (woodlands) and natural history illustration. She is an avid long-distance hiker and enthusiastic bike-packer who shares outdoor adventures with Amos the Coonhound.

Where to Meet: the pull-off near the intersection of Furnace Road and Chimney Rock Road

What to Expect: This is an easy to moderate hike, open to ages 8+. No restroom facilities are available. This hike will run rain or shine, with cancellations for severe weather happening onsite at the time of the event.

What to Bring: Dress for the weather. Bring binoculars if you have them, a snack and some water.