Tag Archives: Walk your dog in Erie PA

Corry Junction Greenway Trail

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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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Upcoming Charity Events: July 31, 2020 Edition

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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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Park Bingo

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We love exploring local parks, so when we found out about Erie County Park Bingo, we gathered up information and wandered some parks so we could let you guys in on the fun!

Park Bingo gives you the opportunity to explore nine different parks in Erie County. These parks include Pleasant Ridge Park, McClelland Park, Eaton Reservation/Bull’s Dam, Lake Erie Community Park, Headwaters Park, 6 Mile Creek Park, Frontier Park, Corry Junction/Greenway Trail, and Asbury Woods at Browns Farm.

Each park you visit of the nine will have a wooden letter tag hanging from a tree near the entrance. All you have to do is take a selfie with each tag and email ALL of them AT ONCE to kcurrier@erieconservation.com by September 30, 2020! If you send them in, you’ll be entered into a raffle of $200 worth of local gift cards! So, let me get this straight, they want us to go have fun at some parks while exercising PLUS give us the opportunity to win gift cards?! Sign me up!

Above are the Park Bingo cards and rules. If you can’t find the letter for some reason, feel free to take a selfie with the park sign pictured on the bingo card. And if you don’t want to take selfie, that’s completely fine; you can use the same item in every photo, or even your dog if you’d like! We chose to use our hand sanitizer; we thought it was fitting for this era we are living in!

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Presque Isle | July 2020

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After spending some time at the Goodell Gardens and Homestead where we wandered through the flowers, paths, and trees, we decided it was time to hit one of the more popular destinations in Erie, Pa. We strategically planned what we thought would be a great time and day, and headed down to Presque Isle State Park. With many activities to do and many different biomes all on the peninsula, this is an interesting area to spend some time wandering.

Location

Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200 acres peninsula full of sand, woods, trails, and roads. If you go to Peninsula Drive in Erie, then just head north and you will find yourself at the park in no time at all. Because this park is literally on the water, be aware of seasonal weather. It can be more than a few degrees cooler on the peninsula than even a mile or two inland. This is a day-use only park, but there is a lot to pack in during a day.

Property Description:

There are about 9 miles of beaches, a roughly 13-mile loop for those looking to run a half marathon. The pavement is smooth as evidenced by not only cars and motorcycles driving around, but the countless bikes, rollerblades, and longboards showed an excellent place to go. There are sidewalks and paved paths almost everywhere you go, and there are also running and biking trails that cut through the woods throughout the park as well. In addition to the beaches, there are multiple spots to launch a boat, walk on short boardwalks and piers, or sit and watch the water.

Because this is a peninsula, on one side you face the city and can see all of the boats or water activity, as well as the skyline, in the harbor. And on the other side there are miles of beaches to explore where you can fairly easily find yourself in a wide-open space. In an age of social distancing, it may take a few minutes but finding space along the beach is very achievable.

It’s also important to know that this peninsula has a lot of sand. This isn’t just talking about the beach. This is important to note because if you find yourself at Presque Isle during or after a rain storm, there can be pockets of water in no time at all. We strategically tried to go in the morning following a rainstorm with the intent of discovering any beach glass, and we ended up finding potholes that contained as much as a foot of water in them.

Things to do:

There really are many activities to be done at Presque Isle. In addition to soaking up rays on the sand or heading for a swim, there are many people who just want to experience physical activity and a bit of nature. Remembering that Erie only gets a few months of summer sun, it seems like the whole county plus travelers try to pack on the beach. There are also activities like sand volleyball courts, picnic areas, and even a beach just for kites.

Throw in the inland activities and you can find anything from events, grills for cookouts, canoeing, and even big-wheeled water tricycles for rent. Speaking of items for rent, there are multiple locations either at the park or right before it where you can rent canoes and bikes.

In addition to the many people looking for exercise on the paths, there are those who run, jog, swim, and bike off of the main paths. As a word of caution, this beach is well known and gets popular for locals. We strategically tried to visit early, and despite being mid-morning on a Monday, we left slightly before noon and the cars were flooding in. Whether you are trying to run or bike without crowds, or you want to stake out a spot in the sand, going earlier means you have less traffic to fight and more space to take up.

In addition to the fun, this is an exciting place for those who love wildlife and birds in particular. Presque Isle is a national natural landmark, and they claim there are, “a greater number of the state’s endangered, threatened, and rare species than any other area of comparable size in Pennsylvania.”

Who Can Go:

While the specifics will depend on what you are trying to accomplish, this park is for everyone. In addition to the amazing possibilities, the paths, beeches, and different seating locations and sights are open for anyone. There is even a beach with handicap access for those who need additional assistance when walking over the sand. Throw in the fact that there is a popular ice cream and burger shop in Sara’s Restaurant right at the entrance to Presque Isle, and you can quickly see why this beach is always packed for about four months per year.

Final Thoughts:

The reality is there are multiple reasons to head to Presque Isle. There are so many reasons that we will probably be back shortly to try and document other days, temperatures, activities, and crowds. In a time period where social distancing is the norm, people continue to seek out less crowded locations where space is ample. Presque Isle is one of those places, and can offer many activities in a large area, while still being a peaceful location for the whole family.

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Girard Waterworks Park

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After spending a few different days picking fruit, including raspberry picking at Mason Farms, we got back into the parks and trails. We visited Waterworks Park, also known as the old Girard Borough Park, in Girard, PA. This is definitely a longer trail and one with large amounts of nature, multiple elements, and not a lot of competition for space when it comes to this social distancing season.

Location & Property Description:

The official park is located off of Lake Street, shortly before the high school if you are headed north, in Girard. Once you have turned to head down into the park, there are multiple access points and things to do. You first come to a pond at the bottom of the hill. This pond is suitable for fishing and includes a fishing pier, and while there you may be able to catch some wildlife here. There is also a small shelter in case of rain or wind.

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When you get to the fork, you can either head left to go down past the sewage treatment plant to find access to Elk Creek and a trail, or you can head right. By heading right, you can see one of the most popular sled riding hills in the area. This spot is always crowded in the winter. Continue driving down the path and you arrive at a one-way loop which circles around the multiple baseball/softball fields, which are popular during normal summer seasons.

If you follow the loop, you will also arrive at another access point to Elk Creek where you can fish, swim, or just take a walk along the water. There is also a picnic shelter which can be rented out by reservation, and there are bathrooms available as well.

Things to do:

Girard Waterworks park is certainly quiet. There are many acres and not a lot of crowds. It’s also important to know that they are pet friendly. You can fish (with the proper license), and in the winter individuals have been known to skate on the pond as well. (Please skate at your own risk, and verify whether the ice is completely frozen!)

In addition to the sights and activities you can do right within the park itself, it’s important to know that the park itself is the start of the Elk Creek trail. This trail follows along Elk Creek for about 1.75 miles, and makes for a peaceful jogging trail or biking trail out in nature. The other end of the trail comes out very close to Elk Valley Elementary school, where long distance runners can simply take lake street to jog back and make it a longer loop, or you can turn around and head back for a 3.5-mile run.

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While the exact amount of wildlife you will see is never predictable, there are many different birds, fish, and animals in this park. On the trails you can see multiple tracks, and there is ample evidence of nature. We saw a lot of very small frogs jumping around the stones by the water; make sure you watch your step! These guys are super tiny and easy to miss; please be careful not to hurt them!

Who Can Go:

There are some targeted activities in this park, so it really depends on what you want to do. In normal seasons, you can find organized activities like softball games being scheduled. In addition, there are spots to fish and swim. Jogging, biking, or running are also the case. And, while it makes the most sense to drive to the park, some individuals in the area will walk down as well from lake street. Keep in mind that the front portion of the park is paved and easy to navigate, but for the most part you are on a dirt and stone road. This can be great for joggers and mountain bikes, but this is not the long slow park for anyone with trouble walking or who may need assistance. Even by the water you don’t find sandy beaches, but rather many rocks. This is expected at a fishing creek or when you go swimming, but it’s probably best to be aware of this before you go.

Final Thoughts:

As long as you have a purpose to go to the Girard Waterworks park, then this is a great location to go. In addition, the park is so large that there is always space available. Whether you want to wander the dirt-paved roads, the trails, or just sit by the water, it certainly is a great location to explore. 

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Frontier Park

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The Walnut Creek Marina was a way to get to a beach, enjoy the sun, and find a place a little less crowded while beating the heat. While the crowds aren’t too large, we did see a lot of people at the ever-popular Frontier Park. And while there were a lot of people enjoying different activities, there certainly is a lot to do in the downtown location.

Location:

Frontier Park is located on West 8th street, West 6th Street, and along the Bayfront Parkway. There are multiple entrance points as it takes up a handful of city blocks, but there is no “true” entrance. That being said, there is a lot to do, and this location provides a great bit of nature right in the heart of the downtown area. There are fields, paths, and a creek that runs through the middle of the property.  There is also an amphitheater with seating, tennis courts, playgrounds, and the Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier. Throw in the fact that long stretches of bike paths go around the park as well as extend deeper into the city, and you can quickly see the appeal of this park.  

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In addition to everything that the park itself has to offer, it has great proximity to many other adjacent locations. Romolo Chocolates, Donatos Pizza, and PopLuck Gourmet Popcorn are all directly across the street from the park to the south, and more locations are in the area as well if you are looking for a snack while you are at the park.

Property Description:

Frontier park provides access to walking, jogging, biking, sled riding, and more. While we were there, some student athletes were working out and playing catch. Many people were playing tennis on the tennis courts. A few dozen were walking or jogging the trails, and yet others were just sitting out enjoying the view. While there are different routes to take within and around the park, the main path around the perimeter of the park is very close to a one-mile loop (out specific route mapped out .92 miles).

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At the present time, the LEAF building is closed due to COVID 19. Under normal circumstances, however, you are able to rent the building. The building itself has capacity for 80 people with 10 tables and 80 chairs. It also has a large sink, white boards and projector screens, and an outdoor patio with restrooms and ample parking space.  

Things to do:

The park is open to the public, so it has ample space for large gatherings, activities such as frisbee, throwing a ball around and playing catch, or even participating in the various courses which are offered in the area, including yoga.

Many people in the general area use the space to avoid seeing the cars and hearing the noise from the city atmosphere. You can quickly forget you are right in the middle of the downtown area, and within a handful of steps you are not only surrounded by considerable wildlife, but you have a tremendous number of birds to listen to as well.

There are also a handful of popular spaces along the creek to watch the water, including as you cross over the couple of bridges.

This is another great location to bring a dog, but remember that they must be on a leash and you are responsible for your pet.

Who Can Go:

This is a great location for the general area. If you live close by, want to take a quick lunch break while you are working downtown, need to get in a jog or short run, or you even want to just relax and watch the birds and listen to the water, this is a great location. It is yet another place we visited to specifically get out of the house, log some steps, and maintain social distancing, and this location had many people present, but made it easy to keep distance from others.

Final Thoughts:

It all depends on what you are looking for. This park is right in the downtown and allows for an excellent walking or jogging trail, as well as a tremendous amount of space to do many different activities. While the park isn’t at it’s “full capabilities” due to the current pandemic, there are many more activities that normally occur within the boundaries of this park, such as the playground, classes, use of the amphitheater, and more.

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If you treat this location as another bucket-list item to travel to in Erie and just want to check it out once, or you come back time and again for the scenery, this is a tremendous park. It may be a somewhat hidden park as it is nestled right in the middle of the city, but with so many reasons to check out Frontier park and pass the time while being there, we fully recommend you find a reason to wander about Frontier Park soon!

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Walnut Creek Marina

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After heading to Wintergreen Gorge and wandering the trails, it was time to find a new way to beat the heat. The past week has seen hot temperatures for Erie, with the weather continuing to rise into the high 70’s, and into the mid 80’s as far as the thermometer is concerned. That being said, we wanted to go to a place less crowded during this pandemic in order to maintain social distancing with the little ones. We decided on the Walnut Creek Marina in Fairview, PA.

Location:

Walnut Creek marina is easily accessible at 241 Manchester Rd, Fairview, PA 16415. The easiest wat to get there is off of state route, about 2 miles east of state route 98 in Fairview, PA. It is an actual marina with 72 slips. It is a popular area for boating, fishing, and jet skis. And while there are other services available for boating enthusiasts, boating was not our purpose. For more information on this, you can always call the facility at 814-833-2464.

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The reason we went to the marina was simply because there is beach access. While most in the area know of Presque Isle when they think of beaches, this one is far less crowded. Despite being smaller, there is still water access to do many of the things you would like on the beach, but you can do it without bumping into others every few feet.

Property Description:

The property itself has more than just access to the water. There are sandy areas, as well as areas with more stones and rocks, and even grass located throughout the property. All provide wonderful views of the lake. Be cautioned that the wind does provide a cool breeze, and it can be cooler down at the marina and by the water than it is in the rest of town. There is also ample parking, and access to Walnut Creek itself if you are looking to follow the creek south for whatever reason.

Boats in the Marina

Things to do:

Besides the actual boating or getting on the water, there is plenty to do. During our visit we counted multiple people just taking a walk. Suntanning is almost the default at a beach, and some individuals were just in lawn chairs enjoying the view while children built sand castles and splashed in the water. In addition, there were multiple people fishing off of the small-rock-piers, and heading up into Walnut Creek to fish.

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We also saw multiple dogs on the property and even in the sand and water. Due to the higher winds there were some kites in the air as well. Also, during our wandering, we found a few pieces of beach glass. However, we would recommend combing the beach first thing in the morning and after a night where there are storms, as that tends to uproot and move around any of the rocks to uncover treasure.

Who Can Go:

While the location is small, this is certainly a less popular destination. We were out in the middle of the day when the sun was high and the heat was strong. We won’t actually count all of the people there for boating because they really aren’t part of the crowd on the beach access if they were getting out on the water. That would mean we probably only saw a dozen or two other people in total. Certainly reasonable compared to the more popular and more crowded beaches in Erie, PA.

One of the many beautiful views you’ll find at this location

Final Thoughts:

This location really is a simple one, but sometimes that’s all you need. Taking your children (or just yourself) to walk the water line has every benefit here as it does at any other beach. The size may be smaller, but that means less crowds and less noise pollution. For that reason, it made sense to see most of the individuals there just sitting in lawn chairs or on beach towels. We also saw a few different clusters of individuals. It looked like there were more than a few people on dates, holding hands while walking and talking. We also saw a few small families who were trying to let their children play. And we even saw some people who brought their lunch or ice cream down with them and were eating right up on the water as well.

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This location is at worst something to do and explore which will get you out of the house and give yourself, your kids, or whoever something to do for at least a few hours. At best, this is a gem of a location that offers many of the same luxuries and amenities as other popular beaches in the area, but with almost no crowd whatsoever. Plus, while the tourists come from miles away just to visit Presque Isle and the surrounding areas, this location seems almost empty by comparison. As long as social distancing guidelines are in place, and even if you just enjoy less crowds and more peace, the Walnut Creek Marina is definitely worth the trip to check out.

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Wintergreen Gorge

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While we already explored a park recently with Pleasant Ridge Park, we wanted to find balance with something to do on the other side of town. With that, we headed to Wintergreen Gorge and wandered the trails.

Wintergreen Gorge

Location:

Wintergreen Gorge is located on the east side of town. The physical address for the primary entrance is at 3399 Cooper Rd, Erie, PA 16510. This main location has just been renovated and there is now a physical parking lot as well as signage to help you know where you are going. The trails run along and around Fourmile Creek, North into Harborcreek, and South where it crosses through Penn State Behrend. There are also a handful of other ways to link up with the trails, including a few on the Behrend property, in case the parking is full at the lower entrance.

Those locations include the southwest corner of the Prischak parking lot, by the science building on Penn State’s campus, as well as the southern side of the Ohio parking lot, behind the residences of Ohio Hall and Trippe Hall at the top of the campus. You can easily navigate the campus with the use of a map if you are unfamiliar with the territory. Please note that if you are going to park in the parking lots on campus, you may need to stop into the campus police and safety building to request a visitor’s pass in order to avoid a possible parking ticket.

Property Description:

The main trail is sourced to span roughly 1.2 miles, however, because of the vast student population there have been many unofficial trails added. If you enter from the Cooper Road end, there are flatted dirt paths that allow wheelchairs and bikes to have easy mobility. There has also been the construction of a few wooden bridges and other additions to make travel easier if you are starting from that side. If you choose to come in from either of the campus entrances, however, the paths are clearly marked but they do become steep at points. They are fully able to be traveled, but you are certainly at an incline. At some places, you will want to proceed with caution because of the steep grades.

While we chose not to venture off of the main path, there are also many sub paths that offshoot from the main path. Following those paths will take you deeper into the woods, allow you to continue to follow the creek, and will even take you to a waterfall approximately 15 feet high and a watering hole to swim in below. That path isn’t hard to find, but will require a more difficult route to get to. Just follow the creek south when the path veers steeply towards campus at the giant piping system.

Wooden Bridge

Things to do:

This trail has become a favorite for many residents because of the fact that you quickly dive into nature despite being so close to the city. There is ample wildlife, and following the creek means no shortage of nature in either sight or sound. In addition to walking, jogging, or running, this trail welcomes dogs and bicycles. And, while swimming is not permitted, with the right shoes you are able to wade into the water and walk up the creek in places as well.

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In addition, just at the top of the hill from the Cooper road entrance, if you head west on Cooper, you will find The Ice Cream Shoppe. They not only serve ice cream, milk shakes, and frozen yogurt, but they also have Smith’s hot dogs and Mighty Fine donuts. If you are looking for something to snack on before, after, or during your walk through the gorge, then this could be an ideal stop.

The Ice Cream Shoppe

Who Can Go:

People, dogs, and bikes are all welcomed at this trail. The various activity levels mean you can aim to take a leisurely stroll, or you could walk the high-inclined paths. There are some flat and easily manageable surfaces, but you also will want to be cautious with younger individuals because at certain locations there can be cliffs along the path, if even only 5 or 10 feet high. This also is a path designed for many people, but it is completely in nature so it may be difficult for some to venture too far into, especially as you get deeper into the path and it becomes gradually more of an incline.

As mentioned, there is one main trail which is paved smooth and is very wide to allow for multiple people to walk shoulder to shoulder. However, the fact that college students and wildlife are active in the Wintergreen Gorge means there are many unofficial paths for exploration which head in many different directions. This is certainly a multiple day event, if you are more of a hiker and are comfortable getting off of the beaten path.

One of the larger paths

Final Thoughts:

One note about safety: Wintergreen Gorge does have some cliffs. One area we did not visit but is located near the entrance in the Ohio parking lot on Penn State Behrend’s campus is known as “the backbone,” because you literally only have about two feet wide worth of path, and then a cliff on either side. Smaller cliffs of only a few feet high are scattered across the paths, and while some of the best views come with larger cliffs, if you don’t take it seriously and proceed with legitimate caution, a fun hike or run could quickly turn dangerous.

It should also be noted that the Wintergreen Gorge truly is wild. While smaller, cuter animals like rabbits, squirrels, and birds can easily be found, you should know that within the creek itself there can be snakes. Proceed with caution as in any area of the wild, and be aware of the rules because this property is one for all to enjoy without anyone taking advantage of it.

Still, despite these few warnings, it should be noted that Wintergreen Gorge is a beautiful destination for any. Individuals come from miles around and will travel hours just to see the sights, the waterfalls, and explore the miles of trails. This is certainly an excellent destination to burn off some energy and get back to nature. It can also be a destination that you come back to time and time again.

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Pleasant Ridge Park – Fairview, PA

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When it comes to getting outside in this climate, one of your best options is traveling to a park. We explored Pleasant Ridge Park in Fairview, PA and it checks off all of the boxes for a way to get out into nature.  

Entrance Sign

Location:

Pleasant Ridge Park is located in Fairview, PA, on the west side near the border with Girard, Pa. It is located at 8271 Barker Road, Girard, PA 16417. It can easily be reached by taking U.S. Route 20 westbound until you get to the border of Girard and Fairview.

Property Description:

This park is an 80-acre recreational park with portions that include woods, trails, sports fields, and rolling fields. In addition, there is a small playground and a pavilion which can seat approximately 100 people and can be rented out.

Athletic Fields

Things to do:

The specific sports amenities include full-sized soccer fields, softball fields, a sand volleyball court, and a small playground. Also, there are ample trails to walk or run. The park is open year-round, so the hills are great for sled riding and the trails double down as cross-country skiing when snow is on the ground.

In addition, the trails, trees, and scenery make for a popular destination to anyone having pictures taken. This includes family portraits, wedding photography, senior photos, and other announcements.  

Playground

Who Can Go:

Pets are welcome at this park. It should go without saying that you are responsible for your pet, as well as cleaning up after them. While you should check to be certain before you go, we have seen horses and horseback riding on the trails in the past. The trails are made of dirt and grass, and while maintained and wide, they are not paved. They do provide for very easy walking, however, individuals requiring a flat surface may want to be aware of this before venturing too far back.

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More Information:

With respect to the size of the trails, you could easily spend 30 minutes walking, but there are different trails to run and you could easily pick up a few miles in the longer loop, while also being able to take shorter routes or different paths every time you go.

One point to note. There is a drinking fountain at the entrance as well as bathrooms which are well maintained. During this current COVID crisis, bathrooms are currently closed (This blog post was written in 2020, please check the website for current bathroom operations).

Park Scenery

In addition to the items already mentioned, this site is great for bird watching as there are many different species throughout the park. There are also deer trails, and occasionally deer can be spotted. You also won’t mistake the sound of bull frogs which can heard in the frog pond in the corner of the larger field, and also as you walk across the foot bridge.

Park Rules

Be aware of the basic rules before you go. Some of the basics are that the park is open from dawn until dusk. In addition, be smart. This is a community park, so clean up after yourself and your pets. And if you have any other questions, you can also contact the Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority at 814-474-5077.

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[Editor’s note: Please be aware that we are not affiliated with The Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival in any way. This is true of all of our posts. We simply enjoy wandering around Erie as we know finding what to do in Erie, PA area can be hard.]