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.
February – March 2026 Weekend Programs
Saturday, February 28th ~ 2pm All About Antlers
Everyone is thrilled to when they see huge bull elk with their giant antlers. During this popular program learn many amazing facts about these spectacular weapons of defense. Handle many sets of huge antlers as you participate in an informative follow-up question-answer session.
Sunday, March 1st ~ 2pm PA Reptiles
Did you ever wonder what kinds of reptiles lurk in the Pennsylvania wilds? Well, now is your chance to learn a few! Join us at the Elk Country Visitor Center as we explore a couple important reptiles found in the Keystone State of PA. You can even get acquainted with our rescued Eastern Box Turtles (Bob and Rosie) as well as Java, our Eastern Black Rat Snake.
Saturday, March 7th ~ 2pm Antler Shed Hunting
Are you curious about how to find whitetail and elk antler sheds? Shed hunting can be very exciting and addicting. Everyone has their own method when scouting the woods for sheds; join us here at the Elk Country Visitor Center as we discuss some of our most effective methods. Also learn why antlers drop each year and get some tips on where to search!
Sunday, March 8th ~ 2pm Maple Syruping Demonstration
Have you ever wondered how maple syrup was made? Or have you ever wondered where it came from? If you answered yes to either one of these questions then you should come to the Elk Country Visitor Center. Mike Wittman, a local expert, with 40 years of experience will lead us through the process. You will see how the sap is collected and learn many interesting facts.
Saturday, March 14th ~ 2pm Eastern Bluebirds
Join Jake Smith, environmental educator with the PA Game Commission in welcoming a special bird back to Pennsylvania after a long winter journey. You’ll get to build a bluebird box to take home with you, contributing to conservation efforts. Boxes are limited to one per family.
Sunday, March 15th ~ 2pm Clovers & Make a Leprechaun
Clovers are a unique and useful plant that is so common you probably have it growing in your backyard right now. It is also a favorite food of elk! You may even know it as its holiday name “Shamrock!” What you may not know is how it got that name in the first place or its amazing abilities to heal the environment! Stick around after to make your own Leprechaun!
Saturday, March 21st ~ 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, March 22nd ~ 2pm Raccoons
Learn about this interesting Pennsylvania species, including its “cleanliness” habit, its ability to survive bitter winter temperatures by “communal nesting”, and many other interesting facts (did you know that President Calvin Coolidge had a pet raccoon named “Rebecca”?).
Saturday, March 28th ~ 2pm PA Local Attractions
Are you a hiker, cyclist, hunter, or outdoor enthusiast? Curious about the trails and attractions in Elk Country and the PA Wilds? You’ve come to the right place! This program will walk you through the world class local attractions right in the heart of Elk Country.
Sunday, March 29th ~ 2pm Elk Walk & Talk
Join a staff member as we hike the trails around the Elk Country Visitor Center. Learn many interesting facts about the property and wildlife that often inhabit these fields. We will be covering topics such as what elk eat, where they spend their time, and how each season brings something different.
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
Dakota Malmgren ~ ConEdTech@kecaus.com