In order to remain in the holiday spirit, we followed up our trip with the Presque Isle Lights by heading to the Asbury Woods Winter Wonderland. This event was a solid opportunity to actually get out onto the boardwalk of Asbury Woods and see the staged lights they have set up for the crowd.
Location
The location of this event is right inside of Asbury Woods. The address is 4015 Asbury Road in Erie, and the walk itself is entirely outside on the property. The good news is that this entire trip is only about 1/3 of a mile for the path, so this is a simple walk that anyone of any age can enjoy.
Property Description
If you’ve never been to Asbury Woods before, this is a perfect time to go. Winter Wonderland continues at Asbury Woods from December 4th until December 31st (please note, there will be no program on December 24th, or December 25th). It runs from 5:00PM – 8:00PM nightly, and is a very nice walk which is open to the public. The event is free, but donations are accepted on-site. When we went, there was just a bit of snow on the ground and on the boardwalk. However, it was fairly well shoveled which meant we even had the ability to take our stroller through with us.
It is important to note that in most seasons Asbury Woods has more activities going on for their Winter Wonderland, but despite the restrictions of COVID-19, the viewing area is a perfect walk. It’s also important to note that in addition to the social distancing aspect, this event allows individuals to walk around entirely outdoors. You can enjoy the sights while the event continues to follow the guidelines as given by the government. Currently those guidelines are under than 50 people at one time. However, they are subject to change and the officials at Asbury Woods continue to monitor the number of people on the trail at any time.
What to Do & Who Can Go:
These lights are a great walk through the woods and enjoy nature while also being able to see the lights. It’s a simple walk, but can really be part of the holiday spirit. In a year where not everything has been “normal,” this event is something anyone can enjoy. It’s a great opportunity for couples, individuals, or the whole family. The fact that it’s all on a boardwalk versus on a dirt trail means you can be sure of your footing in the winter elements. Let’s be honest, Erie, PA gets snow and inclement weather, and that means if you want to enjoy the outside you at least will have sure footing.
Final Thoughts:
This is a fun event for the family. The best way to enjoy this holiday is to try and get outside, but the number of opportunities in the winter can be few and far between. That’s all of the more reason for looking at this event as a must-do. You will be outdoors so it might be a great opportunity to meet others from outside of your household while maintaining the social distancing aspect. Or you might just want to take your children or parents out yourself.
One other point to note is that this event can be popular. When we went, we arrived at the Asbury Woods parking lot right as the event was starting, and the lot was full. In fact, some individuals were parking across the street and we were able to pull into one of the last spots. The entire walk only took us about 30 to 40 minutes with little ones who took their time and wanted to see everything, however. And when we left, the parking lot was almost half-way open, which means you shouldn’t have a problem getting into this event quickly and enjoying it before little ones (or you yourself) start to get cold. Bring your camera and enjoy these, because if you enjoy looking at Christmas lights then this is a great opportunity to not only go, but to possibly go multiple times.
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After heading to the Festival of Trees event at Fairview Business Park, we were excited to hear about the light event down on Presque Isle, sponsored by the Presque Isle Partnership. While the Festival of Trees was about the lights, this event was actually scaled back a lot more to focus on the nature and wildlife of Presque Isle.
In fact, Presque Isle Partnership even listed some information as a caution for those expecting this event to be full of lights, and they even say “if you’re expecting a Chevy Chase style Christmas show and all 3,000 acres lit up, your expectations are a little high. None-the-less, we’re hoping you choose to take an evening drive around Presque Isle throughout the month and appreciate all the hard work many groups and organizations have put into the event. Think of it as a nighttime scavenger hunt for lights and displays around the park.”
Location
This event begins on Presque Isle, and the hours are from 6-9PM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until January 1st-3rd weekend. As you enter the park there will be signs, and individuals can use the right-hand lane for the distribution of programs as well as accepting donations at the 2nd parking lot. In addition, the 4th parking lot will have hot cocoa for individuals, and you should also use the right-hand lane. This is a popular event and the traffic can get pretty backed up, so if you don’t want either of these items you can stay in the left lane and continue to drive. Also, be sure to turn in to 95.5 FM for the holiday music.
Property Description:
If you’re from Erie, you’ve been to Presque Isle. Seriously. But, because of the nature of this being a state park, have you ever been down around the peninsula in the dark? There may be some wildlife (hence the reason for too many lights – as not to disturb them). In addition, there are some great views so have your camera ready. As you make your way out the peninsula you actually get great views of the bay. And on the way back you can see some excellent shots of the sky, as well as the famous lighthouse being lit up. Along the way you will also find the occasional light display, and think of this as a “scavenger hunt” where you can slow down and get a quick photo at any point.
Things to do:
With a combination of hot chocolate as well as the music, this can be a fun drive. In these times if you are looking to just get out of the house, then it certainly is a great way to break the monotony.
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We want to emphasize this so that you are aware and we set the right expectation. This is not a lights fest. Rather, this is a drive through the scenery of Presque Isle with the Christmas and holiday spirit, and expect to see some lights along the way. But this is not a “lights fest.” The only reason we point this out is because there have already been some complaints online about how this wasn’t a lights event and there weren’t enough displays, but that’s not what the event is supposed to be. If you are looking for just bright lights, you may want to go to check out some lights in local neighborhoods (in fact, that may be one of our upcoming posts … )
Who Can Go:
In addition to the music and the hot chocolate, this can be a good event for children to either look for some of the lights, or you may even let young ones fall asleep before bedtime! It could also be a great idea for a date, as there is ample time to talk. We waited in the program line, and also waited in the hot chocolate line for about half of the way before we decided to skip the drinks for taking too long. From the time we were coming down the hill (right under the Waldameer roller coaster), until the time we were heading out (again, right under the roller coaster heading up the hill), we were there for 1 hour and 15 minutes. We took our time with the lines and could have bypassed those, but it still can be a scenic drive. Other recommendations some have pointed are to bring some snacks or cookies, and even go to the McDonalds right outside of Presque Isle and get a coffee drink or Hot Chocolate there if you want to skip that time. But, all in all this could be done in as little as a half of an hour or 45 minutes, or possibly even longer if you want to park and eat, drink, or talk.
Final Thoughts:
As long as you know what you are getting into, this really is a fun event. In fact, the fact that this is being done specifically due to COVID reasons and this is the first year they are doing it, it is a great way to enjoy something outdoors in Erie in the evening. We strongly recommend you have a plan and are prepared to be patient as this is a very popular event. We also recommend you know your time limits, as we arrived slightly before 6 and the traffic was already backed up the hill. When we were leaving, incoming traffic was backed up to almost the intersection with more cars trying to turn in. But, as long as you are prepared and have realistic expectations, this was a great event to break up the monotony and get into the holiday spirit.
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This fall, and all of life during the current COVID pandemic, has been a little busier than anticipated. The good news is we were able to get out and record as well as take a handful of trips. The bad news is we are slightly behind on those, but they will start to open up now that we are getting into the cooler weather. And besides, maybe the best time to talk about the late summer and early fall sun would be when we are seeing near freezing days over the coming weeks! Speaking of near freezing days, the event we were able to go to and highly recommend you check out was the festival of trees.
Location
The festival of trees is a fundraiser for Allegheny Health Network. Typically, this is an indoor event where individuals can actually bid on decorated Christmas trees. However, this year is obviously a different one. In fact, it’s a drive-through event in Fairview Business Park where you can stay in your car and practice being socially distant the entire time.
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Fairview Business Park is located just off of Route 98, just north of the I-90 exit. Or, you can take U.S. route 20 and then head south onto Avonia Road, just a short drive past the Fairview Elementary, Middle and High Schools. The event itself starts inside of the park, so just turning in and following Klier drive will take you where you need to go.
Property Description:
The property itself is a business park with a main road that heads back and circles around a pond. There are multiple commercial and office buildings built around the park, and one side of the road is closed so you don’t need to worry about oncoming traffic. Basically, all that you need to do is drive up and slowly drive through to see the lights, scenes and other characters at the event.
Things to do:
This is a great combination of characters, individual scenes (both fixed in place and with moving characters who are dressed up), and light displays. There are some very festive scenes, some princesses and heroes that the kids will love, and even a Santa and Mrs. Claus. While you are there, they even suggest you listen to 99.1 FM on your radio to hear the Christmas music as you drive through. The entire event will vary slightly depending on how quickly you drive (or the speed of the car in front of you), but all in all, this was about a 20-minute drive through.
Who Can Go:
Because the speed was reasonably slow (less than 20 mph), you are able to see most all of the sites. This means it’s great for children or the elderly as well. And while it may be a little bit colder, the weather allows for individuals to roll their windows down and interact with the characters who are present.
One point to note, because this event is only offered for this weekend (November 27th – 29th, 2020) from 5:00-9:00PM, it is crucially important to get there early. We pulled into the park at about 4:45, and were probably around 15 to 20 cars deep from the first car to go through. They allow the next car to go every 20-30 seconds or so, so it meant we were able to “start” at about ten minutes after 5:00, and were exiting the display area by about 5:30PM. However, as we were exiting, we saw cars more than a mile down the road to the entrance of the park.
Santa!
Final Thoughts:
Because this is a charity event, the cost is displayed on the website, but for a car with 10 or less passengers, the total cost is $20.00. It is going towards helping Allegheny Health Network build a Healthy Food Center for nutritional support. Also, it is nice to see different participants involved and sponsoring different displays, and there is even a contest to vote for which one was your favorite. This certainly is a short event for the fact it is only running three days total. But if you consider the ability to get out and let your children have fun while doing something new for the holidays, this is an event to try.
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After taking the time to wander Brown’s Farm, we needed a simpler plan. It’s one thing to enjoy the summer heat, the sun, and longer trails, but when fall starts to creep around the corner it is important to enjoy the summer before they’re gone for the year. That’s why we headed down to Lake Erie Community Park.
Location
Lake Erie Community Park is a small park in Lake City, PA. It is located at 10192 West Lake Road in Lake City, PA 16423. It has recently been renovated. It used to be full of campers and seasonal living, but those have been removed which makes this an ideal location to enjoy peace and quiet, events, using the baseball field, or just taking a walk. It is also conveniently located right on the water, so many people enjoy ice cream from the also conveniently located Dairy Oasis right at the entrance to the park.
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Property Description:
The property itself is a simple one, but has ample space. In addition to the already mentioned items, there are benches facing the water with a beautiful view from the cliffs to the lake down below. There is also a pavilion for events. Technically there are 4 pavilions, each with grills, electrical outlets, water, etc. – but only one pavilion has walls and can hold more than 180 people.
Things to do:
In addition to the baseball field, there is a lot of walking space. This location technically has a west side to the park, with some trails and the ability to actually get down to the water. All in all, the park is 125 acres. Dogs are welcome (but as always, you are responsible for them and any cleanup you may need to do). Besides hosting parties, weddings, graduations, and more, there is also a playground for children to play. This is also another popular destination for photography, as the views of the trees and nature, combined with the cliffs and the lake, make for a photogenic location.
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Who Can Go:
If you are looking for an opportunity to get out to an area of privacy, this is a location for anyone. It’s a simple park, but the views and opportunity to find a quiet location are enough to bring anyone down to relax.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you grab ice cream, have an event to celebrate, want to play on the baseball field or at the playground, or just want to see nature, this is a simple location. In times where social distancing is the norm, this is a great location because it’s not often overcrowded, and it tends to be a little more hidden compared to some of the parks and playgrounds where children can usually go. But, whatever your purpose, this is definitely a spot to check out and bring your friends or family, whether younger or older.
Interested in finding out about more parks in Erie? Click here.
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It was a great opportunity to go out and see the waves while collecting glass at Avonia Beach. As you know, we have continued to find opportunities to get outdoors and social distance, but also to try and find some shade from the sun. It has been warm over the last few weeks with temperatures easily reaching into the 80’s and 90’s consistently. That’s why we decided to wander around Brown’s Farm in Millcreek, Erie, PA.
Location
Brown’s Farm itself is an interesting place with respect to the location. While the main entrance of Brown’s Farm has the actual barn and a parking lot, the farm itself goes from a field with trails, then connects into woods along Walnut Creek, crosses a bridge, and eventually links up with Asbury Woods. This is a large property and easily one you can wander for hours. The specific location is on Sterrettania Road, across the street from Asbury Elementary School and Walnut Creek Middle School, and just North of Frank’s Farm Market and Bakery.
Property Description:
The property does have a Barn which is used for special events, educational programs, and more. The property also has a strong focus on understanding agriculture, watersheds, and land maintenance. The trails are long as well, as local schools continue to use Brown’s farm as their course for cross country running events. Brown’s Farm also uses the land in conjunction with Asbury woods, where they have multiple trail races and can easily fit a 5-mile-run onto the property.
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Things to do:
The trails themselves are a great item to explore. There is access to Walnut Creek, room to walk, jog, or run, bike, fish, watch birds and look for other wildlife. This is an excellent spot for photography as there are many locations such as hills, bridges, and foliage throughout the property.
The woods also have more hills, while the front of the property is more of a field. This means you can venture as deep as you would like while being able to complete one of many loops or trails, depending on your preferred level of exercise in the day.
Even in the cooler weather Brown’s Farm remains popular, as the fall brings changing of the leaves and bright colors, while the winter allows for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Pets are also welcome here, as numerous dogs are found along the trails. As always, be sure to be responsible for your pet, and remember that dogs must remain on leashes. There is also a dog waste station at Brown’s Farm Barn. A note of warning, Pets are not permitted at festivals or events, and this is just for the safety of all guests as well as pets.
Who Can Go:
The trails are for anyone who wants to go, including pets, as already mentioned. The trails are open year-round during daylight hours, so whether you want to take a morning jog at sunrise, or go for a stroll in the evening, this is a great spot. Be aware that some of the terrain may be more difficult for those who don’t get around as easily. We had to leave the stroller in the car. And, while carrying a little one isn’t too difficult for most of this property, be aware the trails and paths do contain some hills, some roots, and some slightly uneven terrain.
Final Thoughts:
Remember that Erie, PA is in a cool climate. Depending on when you are watching or reading this, we are down to only a couple of weeks left of official summer. The days will get cooler soon, and if you are trying to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine before fall arrives, you really only have another month or two left. With that being said, Brown’s Farm is not just a great place to wander in the late summer, but even as we transition to fall.
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We had a ton of fun being spectators at the Erie Ultimate Disc Dogs event (which are still going on, so be sure to check them out!), it was time to let our toddler run around and explore. For that reason, we headed to Avonia Beach in Fairview, PA. We were also strategic in choosing a day after a storm for a handful of reasons.
Location
Avonia Beach Park can be found somewhat easily. Find Avonia road which cuts through Fairview, PA, and then head north. There isn’t technically an address that we could find, but there are many signs. You will also know you are there when you’ve reached the parking lot as well as where trout run empties into the lake.
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Property Description:
The property itself has a decent sized beach. This is yet another way to get into the water without having to fight some of the larger crowds of Presque Isle. And if you are out in the west county area, this is a quick place to get to without needing to head down into the heart of Erie.
There is a long beachhead which stretches nearly 1,000 feet. And, though this isn’t the miles and miles of Presque Isle, it is certainly a great place to enjoy the waves and breeze if you are trying to have some privacy and maintain social distancing.
Things to do:
This access to the lake is not only a great place to enjoy sights, but it is a place to fish or swim. However, because fishing is allowed along trout run and at the beach, please be cautious when swimming as there could be lures. This is probably not a beach to travel on with bare feet, but wading in the water with shoes or crocs is completely doable.
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We specifically chose to come out to this beach the night after a rainstorm (and it was still raining at the time) to look for beach glass! The rains and storms cause enough disruption in the lake that stones and glass are pushed around and have a better chance of floating into the shore during higher tides.
It also just so happens that if a toddler is going to splash in the water anyways, it doesn’t matter if it’s lightly raining outside! Just remember to bring a towel!
Another item to note is that there is a house available for renting. The Brugger house is a popular place to host parties for graduation, wedding receptions, showers, and more. Just contact Fairview Parks and Recreation at 814-474-5077.
Who Can Go:
This is a great spot for anyone in the family. The access to this beach can be a little harder to get to the water because there is a lot more rocks mixed in with the sand than in some places. However, you can park literally just feet away from the beach itself, so as far as accessing the beach – it’s not going to be hard to get to it. There are also benches and places to sit just off of the beach which make this have availability for all to enjoy the water.
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In addition, there are plans in the works to install a viewing platform over trout run, and to have a handicap accessible fishing platform, so anyone can find something to do here when it comes to the water, and more accessibility and additions are on the way.
Final Thoughts:
Besides just the water itself which could be for splashing, swimming, or fishing, this is a quiet park with ample wildlife. In addition to the Brugger house for possible rental, this is a place where some can come and just walk and talk, take photos, skip rocks, or hunt for beach glass. If you are looking for a place to go when it comes to the outdoors, this is another place to check out. It’s worth the drive if you aren’t on the west side of Erie, Pa, and if you’re already out there it’s a quick spot to get away and enjoy the view while passing the time for anyone in the family.
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Once our hard work of picking and then pickling the cucumbers was over, we wanted to try something new. After all, our goal has been to get out and see what Erie, PA has to offer. And while the era of social distancing has certainly limited our ability to try new places indoors, we still want to wander to new locations. That’s why we decided to check out Erie Ultimate Disc Dogs, and believe it’s something everyone should as well!
Location
Erie Ultimate Disc Dogs competes at Lucky Dog Stay and Play. The location is at 9170 Lake Pleasant Road, Erie, PA 16509. Once you enter the facility and head down the driveway, you will want to maintain your current direction and head straight back into the field. You will drive past the gate on what looks like a road only big enough for one car, but then there is ample room for parking.
These competitions occur multiple days throughout the year, and we highly encourage you to check out their Facebook page first, as the specific events they are running might be more interesting to you. For example, the month of August has the K9 toss and fetch league running on Sundays at 9AM. However, another competition is already slated for the fall league starting in September and going into October.
Property Description:
Because these competitions are literally competitions, in some ways this is no different from any other sporting event. There are a handful of spectators, but there is ample room for social distancing. In addition, watching the various abilities of these dogs is true entertainment.
As pet owners, even having the slightest amount of discipline in a dog is impressive. In addition, all of the dogs had their own personality. Some of them were more focused on the sport itself, and one or two may have been looking more to socialize or were just out there to have fun. However, all of the dogs were amazing at their craft. This activity was certainly something new, and something to take in. And, being a spectator of this event was enjoyable.
Things to do:
This is a spectator event! Bring a small lawn chair or a blanket to sit down on. The way it seems to work is that every dog gets a chance to chase down frisbees, and the spectator areas are perfect as they give you the opportunity to watch the competition right in front of where the dogs are catching the frisbees. In addition, more competitions are set to go, and at some of the events it appears as if you can even bring your own dog. However, remember that these are competitions and so you are responsible for your pup!
Final Thoughts:
Our goal has been to try new things and get out of the house. This certainly crossed off both items from our list. In addition, our toddler was absolutely mesmerized with the different dogs, and didn’t want to leave when we actually headed out. The venue was open and provided space, and there was even an ice cream truck that made an appearance, so there is fun for the whole family if you are looking for something to do. There may still be more to explore with this as well, because they continue to have events almost every weekend it seems and we only were there for one of them. However, we will probably be wandering back to this one at some point in the future.
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After traveling down the path known as the Corry Junction Greenway Trail, we looked for an opportunity to get outdoors but also knew there would be a few days of rain coming. For that reason, we knew this was the perfect season to go gather some Pickles at Mason Farms.
This is certainly not a *new* destination, as we previously have been to Mason Farms for both strawberry picking, as well as raspberry picking. However, as the seasons change, so does the type of fruits or vegetables that are available.
Location
If you haven’t been here yet, now is another great opportunity! Mason Farms Country Market is located on 8603 W Lake Rd, Lake City, PA 16423. It is located on Route 5, and while the stand is open at the front of the property with a small parking lot, if you are trying to go pick pickles (cucumber pickles that is), you need to drive the dirt road back into the field. It’s a simple road that is a straight shot back, and in addition to pickles there are other items still in season.
Property Description:
In addition to cucumber pickles, at this point Mason Farms still has raspberries, as well as Blueberries to be picked. There are other items getting ready to come into season, however, so by the time you read this there could be other fresh fruits or veggies to be had.
Things to do:
This was a very simple day compared to the other times we have been picking items at Mason Farms. Compare the size of a strawberry or a raspberry to a cucumber, and you can imagine why. We filled up a basket which gave us probably around 4 or 5 dozen pickles. They vary in size, but the average one was about 4 inches long, and 2 inches in diameter. Filling up a basket of pickles literally only took about 10 minutes.
One point of note: While we only picked a single basket of pickles, there were other patrons there who picked multiple baskets and of multiple fruits and veggies.
Who Can Go:
This activity was actually one of the easiest we had done. Compared to the size and fragility of raspberries (not to mention the prickers on the vines), picking cucumber pickles is a very easy thing to do. The cucumbers are much more stable for young hands than a raspberry (so less “destroyed” produce at the hands of our toddler). In addition, the size of the cucumbers means it’s a lot easier to spot one compared to trying to find berries behind leaves.
Final Thoughts:
Because this was such a short activity, we actually used many of the cucumber pickles themselves to jar pickles. This is another activity that can be done off of the cucumbers, and with a few more items that can be grabbed from the farm stand at the front of the property (for example. We grabbed peas, cauliflower, and peppers). You will of course need the other supplies such as vinegar and the mason jars, but this was an additional activity we were able to do in order to preserve the vegetables over the coming weeks and months. After all, while fresh food is a healthy part of any diet, it may be hard to eat 60 cucumbers in a week or two before they start to rot. For that reason, both the experience of picking the cucumber pickles, as well as the process of preserving them in jars, is a set of fun activities that the whole family can participate in.
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We took a fun trip recently to Presque Isle State Park, and while we have been active zigging and zagging around town for the Park Bingo event, one of the stops we decided to hit was the Corry Junction Greenway Trail. It was a great destination, a fun event, and one we would recommend. It was cut short, however, and that’s just part of the fun of wandering to new locations.
Location
Corry Junction Greenway Trail is a trail that starts in Corry, Pennsylvania, however, it travels up near Clymer, New York in Chautauqua county. This trail is accessible from both ends. In Pennsylvania, the entrance is near the intersection of Sciota Road and Sciota Street in Corry, Pa. In New York, it is at Knowlton Road.
Property Description:
This roughly 13.1-mile trail is something we were looking forward to doing, as there are many sights to see along the way. There are various forms of terrain on the trail itself, as it is not exactly paved. However, it is smooth enough with some rough spots, and some hilly portions of the trail. However, for the most part this is a very simple, clear, flat trail that attracts many individuals looking to get some exercise out and about in nature.
This trail is a straight line, in and out. It is mostly crushed stone, but not quite dirt for the ground itself. And, while you could always coordinate the trail to have a car waiting on the other end of the trail, most people head in and then either turn around at some point, or make the full distance before heading back.
It’s important to note that the entire trail from one length to another is only about six and a half miles, but that means heading all of the way down and then coming back would be the full loop of basically a half of a marathon.
Things to do:
At first glance, this trail literally seems like a simple activity. You walk down a well-maintained trail, through mostly nature and serene sights. However, it’s a lot more exciting than that. In addition to the countless opportunities for photography, there are runners and joggers, bike riders, hikers and walkers down and through the trail. Dogs are allowed so long as they are leashed, and while the terrain isn’t paved, it is easy enough for a stroller or a wheelchair. This is a warmer weather type of activity, however, as you probably don’t want to be trying to trek this trail with snow on the ground. However, at that point individuals have suggested this is an excellent trail for cross country skiing. And, though unconfirmed, snowmobiles may also be able to access this trail.
While unconfirmed, the historic site has also been classified and listed as a place for things such as ATVs and Horseback riding. We can’t confirm that at this time, but it would make sense as the trail is wide enough to support many people walking shoulder to shoulder.
And, while the number of animals to be seen is vast, you do want to keep your eyes open. This is the wild after all. For example, we were able to see birds, butterflies, and then a black bear crossed our path, right in front of us. With this in mind, we left! It is important to be safe in this process, and we wanted to go deeper, but it’s probably important to respect the bear’s wishes!
Who Can Go:
As long as you remember you are in the middle of nature, then this is a trail for anyone. If you are looking for a place to exercise, to photograph, to find animals, or just take a long walk, then this is an ideal location for you. In addition to the sites, the sounds of nature are something you should be able to enjoy. And, because the improvements and maintenance of the trail itself, whether keeping things properly mowed or having the correct drainage, this is a tremendous trail to explore.
Final Thoughts:
Be aware of what your goal is. Some of our wanderings have been places you can slip in and slip out. This is a great trail but it could take a bit of time to complete the whole thing. If you head deep into the trail and realize it’s been a while (or if you run face to face into a bear), then simply turn back! Don’t forget that however far you walk into the trail, you are going to need to walk that far back out!
This is a wonderful trail, regardless of your purposes, and the best thing is that every time you go you get a different experience. Sights, sounds, flora and fauna, the chances of experiencing something new are great. In a time of social distancing, this is one wander you should try.
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I hope you’re all doing well! We wanted to do something different today and give you some information on upcoming charity events in the Erie area! All the information was taken from Facebook and the nonprofit’s websites! Please support local causes! And if you know of other events we missed, please comment below!
Bark and Brunch
Join the Erie Humane Society on Saturday, August 8, 2020 for Bark & Brunch! They will have Tuxedo Dogs selling food, Sundae selling vegan treats, and bubbly refreshments made available by the Erie Humane Society. The first 100 dogs will receive a free doggy brunch bag. Admission is $10. Doggy activities include a Doggy Agility Contest, Puppy Pool Time, and a Pupsicle Stand with Pupsicles for donation.
Childrens activities include Popcorn, Slushies-for donation, Cotton Candy, and a Craft Station. There will also be a Bad Art Show! This is how it works: A $5 donation a portrait will be painted of your pet. A volunteer will paint a portrait of your pet within 15 minutes. There will also be a Shelter Pet Toy Box where you can purchase a $5 toy to help provide each shelter pet residing at the Erie Humane Society a new toy for their kennel (There are 124 Kennels).
There will be a 20% Discount on all pet adoptions from 10AM-1:30PM (August 8, 2020 only).
Open Air Craft Fair
Orphan Angels Cat Sanctuary is having an Open Air Craft Fair! Stop by 12pm – 4pm on August 9! After you’re done stop in to meet our adoptable cats and kittens!
Erie Gives Day 2020
It’s the tenth year of Erie Gives! Join us to top off a decade of amazing generosity and community support. Nonprofits – register at ErieGives.org! Members – access the Erie Gives toolkit now at YourNPP.org! The minimum gift is $25. There is no limit to the amount of money you may give. There is no limit to the number of organizations you can donate to in a transaction. Credit Cards: Only Visa, MasterCard and Discover will be accepted. Checks: Donors can write a check for their Erie Gives donation. Prorated Match: The Erie Community Foundation and our sponsors will enhance donors’ gifts by providing a prorated match to each gift made to a nonprofit. Your Receipt: You will receive an email receipt of your gift, which you should retain for tax purposes. Unless you choose to remain anonymous, your donor information will be sent to the appropriate organizations. Questions about #ErieGives2020? Contact Khristina Bowman at kbowman@eriecommunityfoundation.org
2020 Grady’s Golf Tournament
The Annual Graden Vincent Smith Golf Tournament is held every year in August at Whispering Woods Golf Course in Erie, PA. The tournament is structured as a four person scramble. Both men and women are welcome to play in the tournament. At the tournament, prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 23rd, and last place teams. Proceeds from the tournament will help us continue our vision of assisting NICU families in need of support. They will take requests for tee times as they will not do a shotgun start this year. You can request early morning, late morning, early afternoon, and late afternoon teebtimes. They also will be taking 9 hole tee times. They only have room for the first 40 foursomes, so register today!
FUROCIOUS 5K Run/Walk and Children’s Fun Run Virtual Race
NEW DATE: RUN NOW UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2020. The Ashtabula County APL FURocious 5k Run/Walk & Kid’s Fun Run is now a VIRTUAL RACE. ONLINE REGISTRATION:
https://www.gcxcracing.com/furocious PACKET PICKUP: SEPTEMBER 3rd-6th during open hours@ Ashtabula APL 5970 Green Rd Ashtabula, Oh 44004 SOME FAQ:
1. What is a Virtual Run? You register for the event and run 3.1 miles wherever you want between NOW and August 31st. 2. What do I do after I complete my run? Email raceinfo@acapl.org or text (440)413-9250 with your name and 5k finish time. To be included in awards, you must submit your name and time by September 1st. 3. How do I pickup my shirt and medal? Stop by the APL on the days listed under packet pickup. Only 5k participants registered by 8/22 get a shirt. You must email or text your results in order to be included in the medals/trophies.
No Fleas Market
NOW COLLECTING DONATIONS for the NO FLEAS Market Purrista Yard Sale Fundraiser!
*PLEASE NO broken items. NO clothing WITH stains OR rips. NO OLD electronics, TVs, VCRs, or computers. ITEMS THEY WANT/NEED: (They are looking for items that you would sell at a garage sale): Tools, Books, Clothing, Kids Toys, Baby Gear, Home Décor, Small Furniture, Anything Vintage/Antiques, and any items in decent or gently used condition that you are looking to donate or get rid of. When you donate your used goods to the Purrista Sale, your donation has the potential to help find cats their forever homes. Items sold at The Purrista No Fleas Market will help raise start-up funds for the opening of Purrista Cat Café. DONATION DROP OFF DATES & TIMES: Every other Saturday starting July 18th from 11am-2pm (JULY 18 | AUG 1, AUG 15, AUG 29). Contactless Drop-Off will be behind the Bastion Studios … you can just leave your items by the back door. Someone will be there to get them into the studio for storage. VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITY:
If you can volunteer the morning of the sale, Saturday, September 19, please let then know! They will need help setting up and “cashiers”. Email: PURRISTACATCAFE@GMAIL.COM with the subject of “Volunteering” … would love to have your help! About the event itself: Join them for an open-air NO FLEAS Market fundraising event behind the Bastion Studios (back parking lot) September 19 8AM-2PM!
You will find a variety of gently used, old, and new goods to check out. Come sip some coffee and walk around in a safe, open market environment (with plenty of sanitizer and wipes). The NO FLEAS Market will open at 8AM sharp. From 1PM – 2PM, they will have a $10 bag sale; you pay $10 for a garbage bag & fill it, they will provide you with the bag.
Pets at the Pub
Erie Humane Society is offering a re-vamped, special Corona Edition of Pets at the Pub (formerly known as Pints for Paws) this year on September 6 from 3-7. The event will be held at the Erie Humane Society, on the 3 acres of green space behind our Pet Wellness Clinic. The ample space will allow attendees to enjoy this event outdoors with plenty of room to comply with CDC guidelines, as we will have two large tents set up, with seating available. Beer will be available for purchase from Erie Ale Works, and wine will be sold by EHS. Food will be available for purchase from Tuxedo Dogs, and Sundae will have vegan dog treats for sale. Take a chance on a themed basket in our basket raffle or try your luck in a 50/50 raffle. Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome and encouraged to attend. Tickets are available for purchase at the Erie Humane Society. Cost is $10.00 and includes a free pint glass. Still have questions? Feel free to contact the shelter at 814-835-8331.
Lions Tigers and Beers
On October 3 Small Town Rollers will be performing at Erie Zoo’s Lions, Tigers, & Beers Festival, in Erie, PA!!! Enjoy sampling craft brews while listening to our acoustic grooves! Gates open at 6P and proceeds go to the Erie Zoological Society!
Emma’s Footprints Virtual Memorial Walk
Emma’s Footprints Memorial Walk is going VIRTUAL! While we are certainly disheartened that we will not be able to meet at an event location, we want to offer you a chance to be with your friends and family, taking steps to remember your baby in a social distance atmosphere. Emma’s Memorial Walk offers friends and family grieving pregnancy and infant loss the opportunity to gather and remember the lives of their babies. While their life on this earth was far too short, their memory and impact live on forever. Please join them virtually on Thursday, October 15th – October 18th. Stay tuned for more details! Family Fundraising is back!! What does this mean?! No registration fee! Without a registration fee, they hope you’ll be able to build your team, gather more support than ever, and walk in memory of your baby for free!
Serverie Soiree
Join them for a night out on October 16th from 7-10 to celebrate ServErie and help support future Erie community initiatives. Enjoy the Erie Art Museum after hours, as well as, numerous food tastings from several local restaurants! All this and more while enjoying music from one of Erie’s local talent. You won’t want to miss this event!
Keep checking the blog for information on upcoming charity events in the Erie area! We’re bringing you this information before the events so you can attend them! Hopefully we will be blogging a few of them!
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Wander Erie 