TAVARES —Whether resolving to embark on a personal fitness journey in 2017 or simply interested in exploring Lake County’s unique natural resources, the Lake County Parks & Trails Division is offering free guided events allowing residents and visitors to get active while viewing native plants and wildlife.
- Science Saturday
Saturday, Jan. 7 from 9-11 a.m.
Saturday, Jan. 14 from 9-11 a.m.
Saturday, Jan. 28 from 9-11 a.m.
Ellis Acres Reserve
25302 County Road 42, Paisley
This adventure of exploration and discovery helps kids brush up on science. Topics discussed include arthropod adaptations, animal habitats, outdoor life, aquatic organisms and more.
- After Dark at PEAR Park
Wednesday, Jan. 11 from 7:30-9:30 p.m.
PEAR Park Wildlife Conservation Area
4800 University Ave., Leesburg
Join staff on a moonlit hike to discover the wildlife that reveals itself after the sun sets.
- Crooked River Paddling Adventure
Friday, Jan. 13 from 9 a.m. – noon
Crooked River Preserve
11121 Lake Louisa Road, Clermont
Lake County Water Authority naturalists lead this post-holiday paddle showcasing the county’s unique natural resources and waterways. - PEAR Park Nature Center Open House
Saturday, Jan. 14 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
PEAR Park Wildlife Conservation Area
4800 University Ave., Leesburg
Explore the nature center, which features a collection of rocks, minerals, fossils, sand and shells that may be viewed under a microscope. - Mini Course on Identifying Minerals
Saturday, Jan. 14 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
PEAR Park Wildlife Conservation Area
4800 University Ave., Leesburg
Kids ages 10 and up accompanied by an adult can take a mini course on identifying minerals with retired science teacher and volunteer Gene Bouley. - Quarterly Bird & Butterfly Survey
Saturday, Jan. 14 from 7:30-11 a.m.
PEAR Park Wildlife Conservation Area
4800 University Ave., Leesburg
Saturday, Jan. 28 from 7:30-11 a.m.
Ferndale Preserve
19220 County Road 455, Ferndale
Volunteers are invited to assist in surveying the park’s birds and butterflies. Participants should bring binoculars and field guides. Experience is a plus, but not required.
- Kids Hiking Trip
Saturday, Jan. 21 from 9-10:30 a.m.
PEAR Park Gateway
26701 U.S. Highway 27, Leesburg
Kids will learn safety tips and proper gear needed for a fun hike through the woods.
- Ellis Acres Reserve Nature Hike
Sunday, Jan. 22 from 9-11 a.m.
Ellis Acres Reserve
25302 County Road 42, Paisley
Hikers will learn about the ecology of the uplands and wetlands of this property, which is home to black bears, sandhill cranes, wild turkeys and white-tailed deer.
To make a reservation for any Parks & Trails event, visit http://bit.ly/1rFvqOP. For more information about the Lake County Parks & Trails Division, call 352-253-4950, emailparksandtrails@lakecountyfl.gov or visit www.facebook.com/LakeCountyFLParks.
Comments are closed.