Elk Country Visitor Center Weekend Programs
The education team here at the Keystone Elk Country Alliance works to educate on all levels. Whether you are a student, a teacher, or a curious visitor we have something for you! We offer educational weekend programs every Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. These programs aren’t just about elk; they cover numerous topics from beavers and black bears to maple syrup making and hiking. We also frequently host guest speakers from the PA Game Commission, PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and other conservation organizations. On top of all that, we find special joy in the changing of the seasons and holidays. We often have special events during these times, like our Earth Day Celebration, Halloween Extravaganza, and Christmas Ornament Series.
If you are interested in being a part of all the fun that happens here at the Elk Country Visitor Center, then keep an eye on our calendar of events for everything we offer each month! You can also find event information on Facebook and Instagram.
November 2024 Weekend Programs
Saturday, November 2nd ~ 2pm Weighing an Elk
“Wow! That’s a monster elk!” You can hear comments like this all day from elk admirers up and down the trails at Keystone Elk Country Visitor Center, but is it really a monster elk? Using a scientific technique to estimate the size of dinosaurs, it’s relatively easy and accurate to estimate the weight/mass of an elk from tracks it leaves behind with a fair degree of accuracy. Come and join us as we separate the “monsters” from the lightweights.
Sunday, November 3rd ~ 2pm PA Trapping Tactics & Techniques
Local trapping guru Tom Schwabenbauer will be the presenter for this educational program. He will be covering Pa trapping species, trap selections and techniques and strategies for success. A great program for seasoned veterans as well as beginners to trapping!
Saturday, November 9th ~ 2pm Elk History
Have you ever wondered where Elk came from? Or wondered how Pennsylvania got their elk? If you answered yes to either one of those questions then you should come to the Elk Country Visitor Center. We will take a deep dive into the history of elk from where they started and how they are doing today! You are sure to learn something new about Pennsylvania’s elk herd.
Sunday, November 10th ~ 2pm Wildlife Track Identification
“Woah! What animal made that footprint??” Walking the forests in Elk Country, you can come across all kinds of wildlife tracks and it can be difficult to identify the critter that made them. Come join our Con Ed staff as we dive into the world of Wildlife tracking. We will go over a couple of different wildlife tracks and some tips on how to identify each one!
Saturday, November 16th ~ 2pm Elk Basics
New to learning about elk? Join us for the basic breakdown as we learn about elk history, elk ecology and elk behavior. Are you a seasoned “Elkspert?” We bet you’ll learn something new too!
Sunday, November 17th ~ 2pm Cocoa & Chat
With the Holidays coming up, sometimes it can be hard to relax and get outside. Join Mariah as we drink cocoa and chat about ways to relax in nature. Forest bathing and sensory walks are great ways to destress in the great outdoors during the holidays.
Saturday, November 23rd ~ 2pm PA Black Bears
Join us for an informative presentation as we learn many fascinating facts about one of Pennsylvania’s largest mammals. Learn about their physiology, life cycle, and some interesting information about their den sites. You’re sure to learn something new about our big, fuzzy friends!
Sunday, November 24th ~ 2-3pm Make & Take Thanksgiving Day Craft
Come Join us at the Elk Country Visitor Center for a fun craft! We will be making Leaf Lanterns as a fun craft in celebration of the upcoming holiday. All ages are welcome to participate!
You are welcome to bring your own jar!
Saturday, November 30th ~ 2pm White-tailed Deer
Thousands of Pennsylvania hunters will be afield in search of this wary mammal on the opening day of the 2024 deer season! The white-tailed deer happens to be our state mammal and can found in all 67 counties. Learn about this fascinating animal in a fact-filled educational program!
If you have any questions, please contact our Con Ed staff at (814) 787 – 5173
Emails: Ben Porkolab ConEd@kecaus.com
Emma Walters ConEdSp@kecaus.com