The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Keystone Trails Association are giving Pennsylvanians 83 ways to "take a hike" during Pennsylvania Hiking Week, May 28-June 5.

All of the scheduled hikes have leaders. Most hikes are on the two weekends of the event, but several weekday and evening hikes also are offered. Hikes include a variety of lengths and difficulty--from easy strolls to strenuous day hikes.

Some of the different hikes include:

· night hikes looking for nocturnal creatures;

· history and interpretive walks led by local specialists;

· hikes to spectacular vistas or through wildflowers and other scenic settings;

· hikes whose purpose is trail maintenance by volunteers; and

· an accessible hike for people with disabilities in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Most hikes will take place in state parks and state forests, with a few hikes scheduled on the Appalachian Trail, in city and community parks.

Most of Pennsylvania's hiking trails have been built and are maintained by hundreds of volunteers. Working in cooperation with DCNR field personnel, these dedicated volunteers -- most coming from KTA membership organizations -- have created an extensive network of trails throughout the Commonwealth.

Organized in 1956, the Keystone Trails Association is an umbrella organization consisting of almost 60 hiking and outdoor organizations in and around Pennsylvania, representing some 1,400 members.

Go to the Pennsylvania Hiking Week webpage to find out more.

5/20/2005