Hikers have more than a 100 choices to pick their path and pace to get exercise and explore Pennsylvania's bountiful outdoors during the statewide Hiking Week celebration, May 24 to June 1.

"Thanks to the work of the Keystone Trails Association, our bureaus of state parks and forestry, and hiking enthusiasts across the state, this increasingly popular event continues to meet its 100-hike goal, while providing activities for all ages and abilities," said Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Michael DiBerardinis.

"We hope novices will join the trail-hardened veterans in this annual salute to healthy exercise and the serenity of those very special places found outdoors at so many of our state parks, forests and municipal greenways."

"Pennsylvania Hiking Week is a great time to explore Pennsylvania's numerous hiking trails," said Curt Ashenfelter, executive director of the Keystone Trails Association. "Whether you like to hike alone or with a group, spring is a beautiful time of year in Penn's Woods. Before or after anyone hikes, I encourage joining a hiking club because they offer numerous benefits for beginning and experienced hikers."

Special events planned by DCNR and the Keystone Trails Association will take place in parks, forests, cities and towns across the state. All of the scheduled hikes have leaders and include a variety of lengths and terrain - from easy strolls along urban greenways to strenuous treks in some of Pennsylvania's rugged mountain areas.

Special hikes include night hikes, wildflower walks, hikes for people with disabilities, pet walks, geology walks, and more.

In a related action, the House adopted House Resolution 744 (Everett-R-Lycoming) designating May 24 to June 1 “Pennsylvania Hiking Week."

Organized in 1956, Keystone Trails Association is a 1,100-member umbrella organization made up of 50 hiking and outdoors organizations in and around Pennsylvania.

A list of hikes already planned can be found on DCNR’s Hiking Week 2008 webpage or visit the Keystone Trails Association website.

5/16/2008