Take a Walk in Penn’s Woods this October!

There's so much to discover in Pennsylvania's forests. Did you know that forests cover nearly 60 percent of the state – that's almost 17 million acres! Pennsylvania's forests provide bountiful habitat for wildlife, quiet solitude and recreation for people, 10 percent of our nation's timber, and many other outstanding benefits for everyone to enjoy.

Yet many people take this amazing resource for granted. That's why, since 2017, the Walk in Penn's Woods partnership has been working to offer Pennsylvanians a statewide day of walks in the woods on the first Sunday in October. These walks provide an excellent opportunity to get out, have fun, and learn about Pennsylvania's forests, to see forests in new ways, and to understand and appreciate the many values we hold for the woods.

This year, because of COVID-19 and its impact on events, the partnership is encouraging families, individuals, and friend bubbles to take to Pennsylvania's forests, making the entire month of October time to Walk in Penn's Woods. They are showcasing trails to hike in counties across the state, virtual tours of unique Penn's Woods forests, and links to State Parks and partners that are continuing to offer organized woodland adventures. Plan a hike on one of the state's 650 trails covering over 12,000 miles of forest. Gather the family and learn about wildflowers, native plants, and the many unique treasures in the forest as you take a virtual tour together. Join in an organized walk and enjoy the fall foliage (be sure to follow mask and social distancing protocols) or take a driving tour of a State Gamelands site. Visit the Find a Woodland Adventure page at www.walkinpennswoods.org for a growing collection of opportunities to enjoy Penn's Woods throughout the month. And comment or post pictures about your adventure on social media or the Walk in Penn's Woods Facebook page with the hashtag #mywalkinpennswoods.

Studies have shown that time spent in nature reduces blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle tension, and boosts the immune system. Even hospital patients who see trees out their windows need less medication and have faster recovery times following surgery. And the top reason why Pennsylvanians own forests is for the peaceful solitude they provide.

So grab your blaze orange and find a trail, check out a virtual tour, join an organized event, and take a Walk in Penn's Woods this October!

For more information about Walk in Penn's Woods, visit www.walkinpennswoods.org.