June

June 2: Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Brillhart Station Parking Area, 6:30–9 p.m.
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NPR.

June 3: Kayak Lessons
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 5:45 p.m.–dusk
Join Uller’s Kayak and Canoe Shop on the water to learn the basics of kayaking. You may bring your own kayak or rent one from the boat rental. Call Uller’s at 747-0095 to pre-register.

June 3: Hanover Junction and New Freedom Train Stations Open for Wednesday Hours
Through July Rail Trail, 6–8 p.m.
These two museums contain information on local history. Hanover Junction depicts the 1860s when the train station was a center of activity during the Civil War. The New Freedom Train Station has a 1940s railroad theme, including an actual scale model of a K-9 engine.

June 3: Moonlight Boat Ride
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 8:30 p.m.
Take a quiet ride on Lake Redman after dark to explore the world of nocturnal life. Explore the many inlets of the lake, but keep your eyes open for the bats!! A 30-minute astronomical tour around the sky is included. After boating, participants will be treated to ice cream sundaes and other refreshments. You may use a County-owned rowboat, pedal boat, canoe or kayak or your private boat. Participants need to bring their own flashlight for each boat. Floatation devices and rowing implements are furnished. $20/couple if using a County-owned boat or $15/couple for a private boat. Add $2 for each individual. Please pre-register by calling 840-7440.

June 5: Moonlight Boat Ride
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 8:30 p.m.
See June 3 for details.

June 6: Nine in ‘09 Hike: Heritage Rail Trail Park
Rail Trail, Day Mills Rd. Parking Area, 9–11 a.m.
Hike under the hill on this walk to see Howard Tunnel. Learn about the railroad and listen to a waterfall along the way. NF, pre-register by calling 428-1961.

June 6: Hanover Junction and New Freedom Train Stations Open for Summer Hours
Rail Trail, Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sundays 1–5 p.m.
These two museums contain information on local history. Hanover Junction depicts the 1860s when the train station was a center of activity during the Civil War. The New Freedom Train Station has a 1940s railroad theme, including an actual scale model of a K-9 engine.

June 6: Moonlight Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Seven Valleys Parking Area, 8:30 p.m.
Theme: Bats
Take a 9-mile ride under a bright moon detecting nocturnal life and astronomy, and hearing folklore and railroad stories. Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the ride. $5, children under the age of 12 are free, NPR.

June 7: Statewide Free Fishing Day
Kain and Spring Valley Parks
No fishing license is needed to fish on this day. It’s a great way to introduce a friend or relative to the lifelong sport of fishing. All other fishing regulations do apply. NF, NPR.

June 7: Wallace-Cross Mill Open House—Art at the Mill
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30 p.m.
Local artists will be creating sketches and paintings of the mill. Explore the past. Tour guides will lead you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities. All three floors contain displays about milling. Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. NF, NPR (donations appreciated).

June 7: GPS Basics and Introduction to Geocaching
Nixon Park, 2:30–4 p.m.
Badges—Cadettes & Seniors: T5
Learn how to use your new GPS unit or see what type of GPS unit is right for you. Start indoors for the basics of what GPS units are used for and how they operate. Then proceed outside to track down some geocaches and find a prize! NF, pre-register by June 5 by calling 428-1961. Ages 12+.
GPS units provided by Gander Mountain.

June 9: Young at Heart Hike
Hanover Junction Parking Area, 9–11 a.m.
Take a leisurely hike with seniors to study nature and learn some local historic facts. This is a great opportunity to make new friends and get exercise. NF, NPR.

June 9: Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Glatfelter Station Parking Area, 6:30–9 p.m.
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NPR.

June 10: Fox Story Time: “Amphibians”
Nixon Park, 9–11 a.m.
Join park volunteer Amy Slagel for a closer look at amphibians. Participants will enjoy a story and a stroll around the park to look for these marvels of nature. This program is for children ages 4–7 to spend with their favorite adult. $5, pre-register at 428-1961.

June 10: Family Rambles
Rocky Ridge Park, Oak Timbers Parking Area, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Led by Parks Board member Anne Walko and her 7-year-old daughter, families are invited for five weeks of fun filled wanders every second and fourth Wednesday. This program’s aim is to leave no child inside as recent research finds that children who get outdoors are happier, healthier and smarter. For children who can walk one hour; adults must be accompanied by a child. NF, NPR.

June 10: Porch Talks at the Stations
Hanover Junction Train Station, 7 p.m.
This mini series will take place on the second and fourth Wednesdays of June and July. The June programs will be held at Hanover Junction Train Station and the July programs will take place at New Freedom Train Station. This date, Brett Nease of PARA will present his findings of the spirit detection project at Hanover Junction. Using both audio and visual equipment, some evidence of the Civil War and other past visitors were detected. NF, NPR.

June 10–11: Senior Excursions
Rail Trail, Hanover Junction Parking Area, 10 a.m., 12 noon, 2 p.m., 7 p.m.
Take a ride on an open-aired “People-Mover” and see this popular recreational corridor. Take a tour of the Hanover Junction Train Station, hear about the history of the Northern Central Railroad and say hi to trail users. The ride will be narrated by Parks Program Coordinator Jeri Jones. $5, pre-register at 840-7440.

June 13: Nature Camp for Adults
Nixon Park & Kain Park, 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
One-day camp created for adults who long for their share of time in nature. Join staff for a wide range of hikes and activities focusing on wildlife. This camp will include a bird walk, a landscaping for wildlife program with demonstrations, and an exploration of Lake Redman by canoe. Snacks will be included. Participants must pack their own lunch. Ages 21 and above. Pre-register at 428-1961, $8 per person.

June 13: Nine in ‘09 Hike: Highpoint
Highpoint Scenic Vista, 9–11 a.m.
With clear skies let your eyes roam over the views from this ridgetop park. NF, pre-register at 428-1961.

June 13: Public Star Watch
Rudy Park, 8–10 p.m.
Badges—Brownies: Space Explorer (Partial) Juniors: Sky Search (Partial), “Doing” Hobbies (Partial); Cadettes & Seniors: Space Exploration (Partial)
View the heavens through telescopes and binoculars. Come to the observatory and see planets, the moon, galaxies and nebulae and learn about each object. Also learn how to use your new telescope or get hints on what to purchase. Please bring a blanket or chair to sit upon if you desire. Event held if skies are partly cloudy to clear. Call YCAS at 578-9109 after 5 p.m. for the status of the Star Watch. More information can be found at www.ycas.org. Groups with ten or more people should place a courtesy call to 578-9109. NF, NPR.

June 14: Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30 p.m.
Local artists will be creating sketches and paintings of the mill. Explore the past. Tour guides will lead you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities. All three floors contain displays about milling. Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. NF, NPR (donations appreciated).

June 14: Nesting Birds
Nixon Park, 2:30–4 p.m.
A park naturalist will lead this indoor and outdoor program to see what birds are setting up house for the summer at Nixon Park. For ages 10 and up, bring binoculars and field guide. NF, NPR.

June 14: Deadline for York County Parks Photography Contest
Nixon Park or Parks Administrative Headquarters at Rudy Park, 4:30 p.m.
Today is your last chance to enter the contest. Photos may be black and white or color pints, and must have been taken in a York County Park during 2008 or 2009. For complete rules, please call 428-1961 or 840-7440  Download Rules.

June 16: Young at Heart Hike
Rudy Park, 9–11 a.m.
Take a leisurely hike with seniors to study nature and learn some local historic facts. This is a great opportunity to make new friends and get exercise. NF, NPR.

June 16: Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Seven Valleys Parking Area, 6:30–9 p.m.
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NPR.

June 16: Highpoint History: Forming the Susquehanna
Highpoint Scenic Vista, 7–8 p.m.
Part of a four-session series emphasizing local history. Enjoy a hands-on presentation by York College Geology professor Bill Kreiger as he discusses how the dramatic landscape you see came to be. NF, NPR.

June 17: Kayak Lessons
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 5:45 p.m.–dusk
Join Uller’s Kayak and Canoe Shop on the water to learn the basics of kayaking. You may bring your own kayak or rent one from the boat rental. Call Uller’s at 747-0095 to pre-register.

June 18: Made in America Days: Nature’s Builders
Nixon Park, 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Take a stroll around the park examining how animals construct their homes for the family. Even wildlife have creative construction methods on to protect themselves from other animals. NF, NPR.

June 19–20: Made in America Days: Wallace-Cross Mill
Wallace-Cross Mill, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Tour this operating gristmill and see displays on all three floors. This mill began operation in 1826 and is one of only a few surviving in the area. NF, NPR.

June 19–21: Balloon Festival
Rudy Park, Friday: 5–9:30 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday: 3–9:30 p.m.
Come see 24 magnificent balloons and learn how they work, purchase crafts, eat, take a helicopter ride and support this York County Parks fundraiser. $10 per car.

June 20: Hot Air Balloon Festival Astronomical Observing
Rudy Park, 3 p.m.–dusk
Badges: Junior: “Doing” Hobbies 6,9,10; Sky Search 6, 2, 3, 4, 7; Environmental Health 1; Cadettes & Seniors: Space Exploration T1
Join the York County Astronomical Society for an afternoon of Solar Observing and other activities at the Hot Air Balloon Festival. Come up the hill to the observatory and talk with our members about our activities, get a free poster and look at the sun through our Solar Telescopes. NF, NPR.

June 21–28: York County Senior Games
For information, call Melissa at (717) 852-4964 or 1-800-632-9073.

June 21: Solstice Celebration
Highpoint Scenic Vista, 5 a.m.
Members of various American Indian tribes will greet summer atop this riverside park. Come experience a sunrise ceremony. It is a 15-minute walk to top of hill. Program starts at approximately 5:30 a.m., weather permitting. NF, pre-register at 428-1961.

June 21: Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30 p.m.
Local artists will be creating sketches and paintings of the mill. Explore the past. Tour guides will lead you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities. All three floors contain displays about milling. Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. NF, NPR (donations appreciated).

June 21: Father’s Day Nature Ramble
Nixon Park, 2:30–4 p.m.
The whole family can enjoy an exploration of the summer woods with father and biology teacher Jeff Kuhns. NF, NPR.

June 23: Young at Heart Hike
Rail Trail, Railroad Parking Area, 9–11 a.m.
Take a leisurely hike with seniors to study nature and learn some local historic facts. This is a great opportunity to make new friends and get exercise. NF, NPR.

June 23–26: Nature Discovery Program III
Nixon, Kain and Rudy Parks
For ages 9–12. This diversified week will present a different theme each day. Activities will include hiking at Rocky Ridge Park, nature study at Nixon Park and an overnight sleepover at Rudy Park. $95, please call 840-7440 to pre-register.

June 23: Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Hanover Junction Parking Area, 6:30–9 p.m.
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NPR.

June 23: York County Parks Advisory Board Meeting
Pleasant Acres Annex, 7 p.m.

June 24: Family Rambles
Rocky Ridge Park, Oak Timbers Parking Area, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Led by Parks Board member Anne Walko and her 7-year-old daughter, families are invited for five weeks of fun filled wanders every second and fourth Wednesday. This program’s aim is to leave no child inside as recent research finds that children who get outdoors are happier, healthier and smarter. For children who can walk one hour; adults must be accompanied by a child. NF, NPR.

June 24: Porch Talks at the Station
Hanover Junction Train Station, 7 p.m.
Myra Reichert, a Civil War renactor, will present “Remembering Mr. Lincoln—A Gettysburg Resident’s Actual Experience.” NF, NPR.

June 26: Family Fishing Program
Kain Park, Spartan Road Parking Lot, 5–8 p.m.
Learn to fish with the PA Fish and Boat Commission. No license required. All equipment will be provided. NF, NPR.

June 26–27: Family Campout Night
Nixon Park, 7 p.m.–9:30 a.m.
Badges—Brownies: Outdoor Adventures 2; Space Explorer 1; Juniors: Outdoor Fun 7; Camp Together 8, 9
Bring the whole family and your sleeping bags and snooze under the stars at the Nature Center. Enjoy campfire stories, night hikes, and telescopes for stargazing and more. A snack and light breakfast are included. Pack a picnic if your family would like to eat Friday evening dinner at the center. Participants will receive a detailed letter prior to the event. In the event of rain, activities and overnight will take place inside the Center. Pre-register at 428-1961, $12/camper.

June 27: Nine in ‘09 Hike: Rocky Ridge Park
Rocky Ridge Park, Oak Timbers Parking Area, 9–11 a.m.
With clear skies let your eyes roam over the views from this ridgetop park. Look south at the valley traveled by American Indians and north to the Blue Ridge Mountains. NF, pre-register at 428-1961.

June 27: Music Concert by the Victorian Parlour Ensemble
Hanover Junction Train Station, 12 noon–1:30 p.m.
Join in on the fun of this Maryland ensemble as they gather on the back porch to entertain you with a dulcimer, banjo, flute and fiddle. NF, NPR.

June 28: Baseball 1864 Style
Rudy Park, 1 p.m.
Members of the York County Heritage Trust will introduce you to playing baseball 1864 style and invite you to join in playing. No skills necessary to play ball when gloves weren’t used, balls could be caught on the bounce and pitcher could really wind up. NF, NPR.

June 28: Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30 p.m.
Local artists will be creating sketches and paintings of the mill. Explore the past. Tour guides will lead you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities. All three floors contain displays about milling. Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. NF, NPR (donations appreciated).

June 28: Bats Demystified
Nixon Park, 7–8:30 p.m.
If you think bats suck your blood, get tangled in your hair, and are filthy, flying rats, you’re wrong! Come and join volunteer Linette Mansberger to learn more about bats as she dispels many myths about our flying, nocturnal friends. NF, NPR.

June 29: Annual Volunteer Picnic
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area
An invitation-only gathering as the York County Parks says “Thank You” to its many precious volunteers.

June 30: Young at Heart Hike
Rocky Ridge Park, Oak Timers Parking Area, 9–11 a.m.
Take a leisurely hike with seniors to study nature and learn some local historic facts. This is a great opportunity to make new friends and get exercise. NF, NPR.

June 30: Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Glen Rock Parking Area, 6:30–9 p.m.
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NPR.

June 30: Highpoint History: Native Peoples
Highpoint Scenic Vista, 7 p.m.
Badges—Brownies: Listening to the Past 1; Juniors: Local Lore 7
Archaeologist Jan Kliendenst presents the life and times of the various tribes who called this landscape home. NF, NPR.