Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Berks County, encourages local residents to get outside and enjoy the winter season with two self-guided activities, a Winter Scavenger Hunt and Geocaching Challenge on February 21 starting at 10 a.m. at the Sanctuary Visitor Center.

Cost is included with trail fee for the day ($6 adults, $5 seniors, $3 children 6 to 12), and participants may stop by anytime until 3 pm. A snow date is scheduled for Sunday, February 22.

The scavenger hunt will encourage participants to use the surrounding trails and Native Plant Garden to find signs of wildlife in winter, while the geo-caching challenge will lead participants using handheld GPS units to a number of different coordinates that culminate in a modest "treasure" or prize.

Both activities are one-day-only, and an education intern will be on hand to assist. A limited number of GPS units will also be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Both activities will include options for the beginner and intermediate levels so kids and adults alike can join in the fun.

Participants should dress for the weather, including proper snowy-weather shoe attire (crampons recommended), GPS units, and carry bottled water and snacks in a daypack.

For more information, visit Hawk Mountain’s Winter Scavenger Hunt and Geocaching Challenge webpage.

2/23/2015