New Year Hike at High Family Nature Preserve

Join Keith Williams from the Lancaster Conservancy as we explore the High Family Nature Preserve, which was recently opened to the public, on a 3-mile hike. This hike will explore meadow, wetland, hardwood forest, and rock outcrop ecosystems. We will discuss how life adapts to cold temperatures and celebrate the protection of open space as we kick off 2026!

What to Expect and How to Prepare: This 3-mile hike will traverse easy terrain with slight elevation changes. The trail surface is dirt, grass, and rock; one section of the trail requires stepping rock to rock. Dress for the weather. The trails may be covered in snow and ice this time of year, so be prepared with good footwear. Hiking poles are recommended. Bring drinking water. There are port-a-johns available at the parking area of Old Trolley Line Park. This hike is recommended for ages 8 and up (all participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult).

Where to Meet: We will meet in the parking area of Old Trolley Line Park, 475 Beverly Rd, Elizabethtown, PA.

Event Leader Bio: Keith Williams is the Vice President of Engagement and Education for Lancaster Conservancy. Keith is an environmental educator, naturalist, writer, and photographer. He has a BS in Environmental Biology from Kutztown University and MS in Ecological Teaching and Learning from the Lesley University Audubon Expedition Institute. Keith was the founding Director of Education and is the past Executive Director of the NorthBay Education Foundation, one of the largest outdoor education programs in the US. He has served on the National Social Emotional Learning in Environmental Education Working Group, was appointed to the Maryland Governors Environmental Literacy Committee, and served on the Board of the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education for 12 years.

Animal Policy: Service animals active or in training are welcome. Please leave all pets at home.

Refund Policy: If you are unable to attend this event after purchasing a ticket, refund requests must be made at least 48 hours before the event.

Cancellation Policy: This event will be held rain or shine, with cancellation a day in advance for severe weather. If the Conservancy reschedules the event, attendees will be emailed and tickets will be automatically moved to the new date. If the Conservancy cancels the event, attendees will be notified via email and refunded.

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Host or Publisher Lancaster Conservancy