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.
January – February 2026 Weekend Programs
Saturday, January 31st ~ 2pm PA Hibernators
Hibernation is an important metabolic process or some animals to survive the winter. Learn about hibernation and what animals in Pennsylvania are true hibernators.
Sunday, February 1st ~ 2pm Cross Country Skiing
Join avid outdoorsman and wildlife educator Ben Porkolab for a guided cross-country ski on the property at the Elk Country Visitor Center. Elk and other wildlife species may be seen as well sharing of some local history, tree identification and up-to-date information on the Keystone Elk Country Alliance and the PA elk herd. Length of the tour will be about a mile. Bring your own equipment and dress warm. We will have some skis, poles and ski boots available for those who need to use them. Please call ahead to check on availability of equipment #814-787-5173, this will be SNOW DEPENDENT!
Saturday, February 7th ~ 2pm Groundhogs
Did you know that since the year 1886 the most famous of all groundhogs, Punxsutawney Phil, has seen his shadow 98 times? Come and learn many other facts, just as fascinating, about the ecology and behavior of our wild Pennsylvania groundhogs. Follow-up children’s activities will be available.
Sunday, February 8th ~ 2pm The Deer Family
Learn about the North American Deer family. These cousins each have unique ways of survival, yet share similar traits with their family members.
Saturday, February 14th ~ 2pm Loyal in Love
Enjoy this “valentine-theme” PowerPoint presentation on various species of animals world-wide that actually mate for life. Learn about the many kinds of birds and mammals that remain dedicated to each other throughout their entire lifespans.
Sunday, February 15th ~ 2pm Elk SMART
Elk Smart is a vital initiative to help remind visitors who come to visit Elk Country to preserve the wild nature of the PA Elk Herd. Learn the four principles of Elk Smart, how to practice them, and their importance. There will also be free Elk Smart giveaways.
Saturday, February 21st ~ 2pm All About Elk
Come and learn about Pennsylvania’s elk herd. Learn fascinating facts about their antlers, history, family, and their behavior throughout the year.
Sunday, February 22nd ~ 2pm PA Wilds History
Come join one of our educators to learn about the past. We will dive in to the humble beginnings to the modern day of Elk country. Discover the rich history of Elk country exploring its early settlers, local industries, notable events, that shaped the history of the land, people, and wildlife that call it home today.
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.
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