The Friends of the Wissahickon are offering free nature walks in Wissahickon Valley Park this winter led by FOW Trail Ambassadors.

Trail Ambassador Walks last up to two hours. Unless otherwise specified, these hikes use rocky, rugged trails that may be wet, slippery, or steep. Please bring water and snacks if desired. Children over six are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Walks are cancelled in heavy rain or icy conditions.

November 29: Hike with Merritt Rhoad. Meet at Northwestern Ave and Forbidden Drive at 1 pm. Distance about 4 miles. Forbidden Drive to Bell's Mill Rd. Will hike orange and white trails to the Indian Statue, returning to Northwestern Ave. via the yellow trail. We will talk about a bit of geology, history, WPA efforts, Sustainable Trail Initiative, and some current FOW activities.

December 19: The Mighty Wissahickon with Scott Quitel. 9 a.m. to noon. In this hike, our focus will be on the Creek. The first half of walk will be a moderately strenuous trek (some rocky and some wet areas) along the orange trail from Valley Green to Kitchen’s Lane. Return route will be along Forbidden Drive. Dress for conditions and bring water and food as desired. Total distance covered: approx. 4 miles. Meet at Valley Green Inn. Further information by sending email to: squitel@comcast.net.

December 19: Meandering in the Wissahickon with Shelly Brick. Come to enjoy our park and talk stories. Meet at Kitchen's Lane entrance to the park at 2 p.m. Bring your own water and snacks. Children ages 6 and up are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Walk will last 1.5 to 2 hours. Pace will be set by the group. Contact Shelly by sending email to: shellybrick@verizon.net.

January 16: Meandering in the Wissahickon with Shelly Brick. Come to enjoy our park and talk stories. Meet at Wayne Ave. & Allen's Lane across from Livezey Lane at 2 p.m. Bring your own water and snacks. Children ages 6 and up are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Walk will last 1.5 to 2 hours. Pace will be set by the group. Contact Shelly by sending email to: shellybrick@verizon.net.

March 14: Late Winter Geology Hike with Sarah West. Meet at Valley Green Inn at 2 p.m. This rock talk and field trip is suitable for children over 10 accompanied by an adult. We will discuss the possible Precambrian formation of Wissahickon rocks, learn to identify five different rock types, and then look at the rocks on the east side of the creek between Valley Green Rd. and the Megargee Dam. For more information by sending email to: WestSarah@aol.com.