BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, Pa. — The public is invited to attend a free nature walk at Happel’s Meadow Wetland Preserve just west of Blue Ridge Summit on Saturday, June 27, from 10 to 11 a.m. The walk will be led by Becky Loncosky, retired biologist, Catoctin Mountain Park.
“The walk will let us explore the wild side of Happel’s Meadow,” Loncosky explained. “We will walk the John Birely Memorial Upland Trail and will concentrate on getting to know the trees and shrubs, including the beautiful rhododendrons that form the basis of the ecosystem of the upland area. And we might see some wildlife, too!”
The trail is about one half mile long, and the walk should take less than an hour. The trail is mostly flat but has uneven surfaces and can be muddy in some areas. Sturdy footwear is recommended. Walkers will not enter watery areas.
Happel’s Meadow is owned by Washington Township and is recognized as a significant wetland because of its size, its upland location, its special plants, fungi and diverse wildlife. It was gifted to the people of the township in 1990 by Charles S. and Amelia Gardner, and Letitia G. Gardiner, in memory of Charles S. and Elizabeth C. Gardner and Dr. and Mrs. Harvey C. Bridgers.
The entrance to the park is located on the south side of Route 16, six miles east of Waynesboro at the top of the mountain. For mapping apps, readers may enter 14356 Buchanan Trail E.
