Happy Hiker: Safety & Visibility

What’s the difference between a happy hiker and a sad hiker? Our third annual Happy Hiker series, of course! Join us for one or all of our six 2025 Happy Hiker series hikes. Based on the Hiker’s Ten Essentials and Leave No Trace principles, each evening program will include nature knowledge nuggets and a short, easy hike to practice what we’re learning. This series full of fun activities, mini-challenges, and the opportunity to practice new skills will help make every hike safer and more enjoyable!

The days are getting shorter and hunting season will soon be here. During this event, we will discuss strategies for staying visible and safe as we hike through wooded hills and valleys.

What to Expect: We will explore the newest trail at Wizard Ranch, a moderately strenuous 2.5-mile rolling route. This series is recommended for ages 12 and up (anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult).

What to Bring: Wear hiking boots or trail shoes. Bring hiking poles, water, and a snack. Dress for the weather. Bring a headlamp if you have one (we will have a few to borrow).

Hike Leader: Peggy Eppig, Conservation Educator with Lancaster Conservancy, is an environmental historian and dynamic conservation educator who offers a hands-on approach to every theme from deep-time history to 21st century conservation methods and practices. She brings over 30 years of experience in interpretive and experiential education. Her wilder interests include ornithology (birds), herpetology (reptiles and amphibians), silvology (woodlands), and natural history illustration.

Animal Policy: Service animals active or in training are welcome. Please leave all pets at home.

Refund Policy: If you are unable to attend this event after purchasing a ticket, refund requests must be made at least 48 hours before the event.

Cancellation Policy: This event will be held rain or shine, with cancellation for severe weather made at the time of the event. If the Conservancy reschedules the event, attendees will be emailed and tickets will be automatically moved to the new date. If the Conservancy cancels the event, attendees will be notified via email when possible and refunded.

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