On May 23, the ClearWater Conservancy released the 2024 schedule for the eighth season of the organization’s Centred Outdoors program.

The program, made possible with support from partnering organizations including Mount Nittany Health and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, invites people of all ages and fitness levels to participate in free guided adventures at outdoor destinations throughout Centre County.

Centred Outdoors guided group outings are hosted at nearby natural places all year round so everyone can explore and enjoy the outdoors together.

ClearWater staff are pleased to offer program features such as a shuttle service for select locations, Jr. Naturalist Tools Backpack, and a free gear library so even more individuals can access and enjoy upcoming outings and activities.

At every Sunday outing, participants have a chance to win a free pair of Darn Tough® socks thanks to the sponsorship by Appalachian Outdoors.

June 2 - Family Fishing

The season officially launches on Sunday, June 2 during the Family Fishing Picnic at Tussey Mountain from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

This event, hosted by Spring Creek Chapter Trout Unlimited, ClearWater Conservancy, and other partnering organizations, offers fishing experiences, a picnic lunch, children’s activities, fly casting stations, guided hikes, and other activities throughout the day.

All fishing equipment is provided, there is no cost to attend, and registration is not required. Galbraith Gap guided hikes are offered at this event at 11 a.m., 1 p.m & 3 p.m.

June 9 - Guided Outings

Then beginning on June 9, Centred Outdoors' guided outings will be held every Sunday at 11:00  a.m. and 1:00 p.m., every Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. through August.

Ten total "Wellness Wednesday" events will be held Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m. at selected locations. Hikes will continue on Sundays in September through mid-October.

Some of the nineteen destinations include places near State College such as Tom Tudek Memorial Park, while others encourage exploration along trails in forested areas such as Scotia Barrens, Poe Paddy State Park, and various locations in Rothrock State Forest.

Events will feature guided hikes and walks, and also additional wellness activities, like forest therapy and yoga.

Everyone has the opportunity to explore, appreciate, and discover natural areas in Centre County in a way that suits their fitness level, schedule, and personal interests.

“Mount Nittany Health is proud to partner with ClearWater Conservancy to offer guided group outings and wellness activities to the community at no cost,” said Karen Cherinka, CRNP, Mount Nittany Health, Weight Management. “The health of our bodies and minds benefits when we spend time outside, and individuals can discover the places and activities that are the most enjoyable for them through Centred Outdoors. This helps further Mount Nittany Health’s mission of ‘Healthier people, stronger community’.”

The 2024 schedule and an opportunity to sign up for event information is available on the Centred Outdoors website. All Centred Outdoors events are free and open to the public.

In addition to Mount Nittany Health and DCNR, Centred Outdoors is also made possible with support from the Hamer Foundation and Richard King Mellon Foundation, and by partnering organizations including Appalachian Outdoors, The Arboretum at Penn State, Centre Region Parks and Recreation, Cole Transportation, Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, Jana Marie Foundation, Millbrook Marsh Nature Center, Organic Climbing, Rhoneymeade Arboretum and Sculpture Garden, Spring Creek Chapter of Trout Unlimited, and Webster’s Bookstore & Cafe.

For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the ClearWater Conservancy website.  Click Here to sign up for their e-newsletter.  Visit them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter and watch their YouTube Channel.  Click Here to support their work.

Visit the Centred Outdoors website to learn more about enjoying the outdoors in and around Centre County.

[Posted: May 23, 2024]

5/27/2024