Centre County locals can explore one of six natural areas in Rothrock State Forest — Little Juniata Natural Area — this coming week through ClearWater Conservancy’s Centred Outdoors program.
Found in Huntingdon County, Little Juniata has “unique geology,” according to the program website. The Little Juniata River, which is also known as “Little J,” flows through the natural area, and there’s a railroad track nearby as well.
Centred Outdoors will host free informative guided hikes at the natural area, approximately 90 minutes in length, on Sunday, July 16, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and on Thursday, July 20, at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Participants can meet at the Centred Outdoors welcome table at the Little Juniata/MST Barree trailhead a few minutes beforehand.
The trail for the guided hikes can be classified as moderate, according to the Centred Outdoors website, and the program route will be approximately 1.26 miles total on dirt, grass and gravel, with minimal elevation change.
After visiting the area, Sandy Miller, communications specialist at ClearWater Conservancy, explained there are other pathways — some steeper — that lead down to the river, so those exploring may want to consider wearing long sleeves, pants and insect spray.
Miller also stressed the importance of wearing sturdy shoes and bringing enough water — especially since it’s an area that doesn’t have direct access to drinking water. Centred Outdoors recommends using a water bottle that can hold at least 32 ounces or more per adult.
Interested participants can visit the program’s website for a link to the exact pin for directions to the Little Juniata parking area. Due to limited cell service at the destination, those attending are encouraged to prepare by downloading or bringing maps to use offline.
There is also a free van shuttle service available from State College, with a limited number of seats. Reservations through the Centred Outdoors website are required, and the seats open one week in advance of the events.
If attendees are interested in participating but don’t have gear, such as trekking poles, child carriers and day packs, reservations can be made online through the Centred Outdoors Gear Library webpage. The form must be filled out at least two days prior to the event.
Guided outings are held rain or shine, with the exception of during severe storms or air quality issues. Any time changes or cancellation announcements will be posted on the Centred Outdoors website and social media.
More information about upcoming events through Centred Outdoors can be found at centredoutdoors.org. There will continue to be free guided hikes offered to the public throughout the summer to connect Centre County locals and visitors with the mood- and health-boosting benefits of spending more time outdoors.
