By 1808Delaware
As the fall season begins to unfold, Preservation Parks of Delaware County invites community members to engage in a variety of outdoor activities that connect with nature, history, and local wildlife. From the inspiring Monarch butterfly migration to the fascinating world of fungi, there are events for all ages to enjoy this September.
Step into Wellness with the Golden Marathon
Kicking off the month, SourcePoint presents the Golden Marathon, an ongoing program tailored for adults aged 55 and older. Starting on September 9 at Deer Haven Park at 9:00 AM, these guided hikes are designed to promote fitness and community engagement. With walks scheduled every Monday until November 18, participants will traverse different parks, including Shale Hollow Park and Emily Traphagen Park. This is an ideal opportunity to explore the scenic trails of Delaware County while staying active and social. Hikers are encouraged to register online and come prepared with proper footwear and hydration.
- Dates & Locations:
- Deer Haven Park: Sept. 9
- Shale Hollow Park: Sept. 23
- Char-Mar Ridge Park: Sept. 30
- Emily Traphagen Park: Oct. 7
- McCammon Creek Park: Oct. 14
- Hogback Ridge Park: Nov. 4
- Gallant Woods Park: Nov. 18
Celebrate the Monarchs at Monarchs & More
One of the most popular events this September is the Monarchs & More festival, held on Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22, from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM at Deer Haven Park. This event celebrates the beauty and importance of Monarch butterflies during their fall migration. It’s a hands-on experience for nature lovers of all ages, with activities that include games, crafts, and refreshments. Visitors will have the chance to see Monarch tagging in action at 2:00 PM, weather permitting. This educational event provides a unique glimpse into the lifecycle of butterflies and emphasizes conservation efforts for these vital pollinators.
- Event Date: Saturday, Sept. 21 & Sunday, Sept. 22
- Time: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Location: Deer Haven Park
- Tagging Time: 2:00 PM (Weather Permitting)
Explore Local Railroads with the Model Railroaders Open House
For those fascinated by history and engineering, the Model Railroaders Open House offers an intriguing peek into the world of model trains. Hosted at the Sandel Legacy Trail Depot, visitors of all ages can learn about the history of railroads and see intricate model displays brought to life by local railroaders. These sessions, occurring on select Saturdays and Sundays from September through November, offer a perfect family-friendly outing. Take a journey back in time and witness the detailed craftsmanship that goes into recreating these historical railways.
- Saturdays: Sept. 21, Oct. 19, Nov. 16 (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
- Sundays: Sept. 22, Oct. 20, Nov. 17 (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Discover Nature’s Hidden World with Fungus Among Us
For those curious about the smaller, often overlooked wonders of nature, Emily Traphagen Park is hosting a fascinating event called Fungus Among Us on Tuesday, September 24, at 6:00 PM. Led by experts, this guided hike will introduce adults to the world of fungi and their critical role in local ecosystems. Participants will explore the park’s trails on a 0.75-mile hike, learning to identify various types of mushrooms and discovering their importance in forest habitats. This educational walk is perfect for anyone with an interest in botany, ecology, or simply the marvels of the natural world.
- Event Date: Tuesday, Sept. 24
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Location: Emily Traphagen Park
- Ages: 18+
September at Preservation Parks of Delaware County is full of opportunities to connect with nature and learn something new. Whether you’re interested in the migration of Monarch butterflies, taking a scenic hike, or diving into the world of fungi, there’s something for everyone. These programs not only offer educational experiences but also create moments to build community and enjoy the beauty of Delaware County’s natural spaces.
