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'Prowl the Sproul' State Forest Activities Set for July 17-19

Posted on: Wednesday, 24 June 2009, 10:46 CDT

HARRISBURG, Pa., June 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Keystone Trails Association again are jointly sponsoring the sixth "Prowl the Sproul" hiking adventure from July 17 - 19 in the Pennsylvania Wilds in Clinton County.

"With thousands of acres of mountainous, unspoiled beauty, Sproul State Forest District offers the perfect venue for hikers all ages and abilities to hit the trails," said John Quigley, acting secretary of DCNR. "For the beginner, what better way to be introduced to the joys of hiking than to have skilled, knowledgeable group leaders guiding you along some of the most scenic hiking areas in the state?"

Hikes are planned to showcase waterfalls, overlooks, unique woodlands and flora that make Sproul truly unique among the 20 state forest districts, Quigley said. Approximately 20 of the area's most popular trails will be included in the hiking adventure.

"This event is not just for hikers," Quigley added. "'Prowl the Sproul' has something for everyone -- novices and experienced hikers, runners and kayakers. It is part of an ongoing effort to display some of the so many outdoors experiences the Pennsylvania Wilds have to offer."

"Last year, 60 individuals from across Pennsylvania and Ohio hiked some of the most rugged and remote forestland in Pennsylvania during 'Prowl the Sproul,'" said Curt Ashenfelter, executive director of the Keystone Trails Association. "The hikers enjoyed hardwood forests, scenic waterfalls and spectacular vistas. All of the hikes will be guided by Keystone Trails Association members or DCNR staff."

In addition to the Keystone Trails Association, DCNR is working with the Western Clinton Sportsmen's Association, Greater Renovo Area Heritage Park Vision Project and the Pennsylvania Parks and Forestry Foundation to introduce association members and the public to the wealth of hiking opportunities found in north central Pennsylvania.

Food and lodging options are available for the weekend, Ashenfelter said, but reservations must be made by Monday, July 6. Visit the Keystone Trails Association Web site -- www.kta-hike.org -- to learn more and download a registration form. For general information, contact Sproul State Forest District Office, 15187 Renovo Road, Renovo, or call 570-923-6011.

Twenty guided hikes ranging from two to 12 miles offer hikers a variety of difficulty levels, terrain and scenery. This year, eight new hikes will be introduced and guides will lead hikers off the beaten path to see some of the lesser known natural jewels of the Sproul, only accessible when hiking with a DCNR guide.

Organized in 1956, Keystone Trails Association is a 1,100-member umbrella organization made up of 50 hiking and outdoors organizations.

The Pennsylvania Wilds initiative is designed to encourage the growth of tourism and related businesses in north central Pennsylvania. Its goal is to enhance the visitor experiences in this region, while protecting and conserving the land's treasured natural resources.

CONTACT: Terry Brady (717) 772-9101

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Source: PR Newswire

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