Presque Isle State Park is kicking off the new year with a variety of educational and outdoor programs for nature enthusiasts of all ages. From guided hikes to virtual learning sessions, here’s what’s happening in January:
Presque Isle After Dark: Dead Pond Trail will take place Friday, Jan. 2 from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Take a 1.5-mile guided hike after sunset and explore the fascinating world of nocturnal animals. Dress for the weather and meet at Thompson Circle-Dead Pond Trailhead.
Wild Waterfowl scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Learn about the waterfowl that migrate and nest on the peninsula through a presentation and a carpool tour. Register by Jan. 6.
Virtually enjoy the State Symbols on Friday, Jan. 16 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Discover Pennsylvania’s state symbols and their stories in this online program. Register by January 13.
National “Take a Walk Outdoors Day” Hike will be on Tuesday, Jan. 20 beginning at 1:00 p.m. and ending at 3:00 p.m. Celebrate the day with a 1.5-mile guided hike through Presque Isle’s interior trails. Meet at the P.I. Lighthouse parking lot.
Squirrel Appreciation Day where guests can join a naturalist at TREC to learn fun facts about squirrels through a presentation and mounted specimens on Wednesday, Jan. 21 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Register by Jan. 11.
Virtually the Natural Wonders of Presque Isle can be enjoyed on Tuesday, Jan. 27 beginning at 10:00 a.m. and continuing until 11:00 a.m. Explore the park’s unique wildlife and landscapes in this engaging online session. Register by Jan. 23.
On Friday, Jan. 30 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. learn more about these entertaining rodents in a virtual program. Register by Jan. 27.
Registration is open Dec. 1, 2025, until Feb. 13, 2026, for the annual art contest. This year’s theme, Presque Isle 250, celebrates America’s 250th anniversary. Students can illustrate 250 years of Presque Isle history through art. To register, email Brian Gula at bgula@pa.gov for entry forms and details.
The competition is part of America250PA, Pennsylvania’s official commemoration of the nation’s founding and its historical impact.