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.
September 2026 Weekend Programs
Saturday, August 29th ~ 2pm Welcome to the Rut
The rut is nearly upon us. Join us as we discuss the behavior of the elk during their breeding season, appropriate and safe elk- watching etiquette, as well as some additional exciting seasonal happenings here in Elk Country.
Sunday, August 30th ~ 6pm Binoculars 101
Learn binocular viewing basics! Test your skills, and hit the trails to view elk and other wildlife! There will be binoculars available to use along with a spotting scope, but feel free to use your own!
Saturday, September 5th ~ 2pm Elk Talk!
Elk Talk? You’re telling me that elk talk?…. They do! Elk actually communicate in several different ways. Join our KECA staff as we learn about the many different signals and calls that elk make or use when “talking” with one another. In no time, you’ll be able to understand exactly what an elk is saying just by watching them in the field.
Sunday, September 6th ~ 2pm Bird Migration
Come learn about the migration of birds through Pennsylvania as they make their journey south. Discover what you can do to help these traveling birds and what species you might encounter!
Saturday, September 12th ~ 2pm Elk Through the Seasons
Local wildlife photographer and outdoor enthusiast Jeff Lipniskis takes you on a captivating journey through an entire year in the life of Pennsylvania’s most iconic animal. Through photography and immersive video, you’ll witness changes across the seasons—from the tender moments of spring calves, to summertime in open meadows, the drama of the autumn rut, and the quiet endurance of winter. This visual storytelling experience reveals not just the beauty of the elk, but the landscapes, cycles, and untold stories that shape their world.
Sunday, September 13th ~ 1-3pm Elk Basics Walk-up!
New to learning about elk? Walk up to 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!
Saturday, September 19th ~ 2pm Elk Bingo!
Test your elk knowledge and observation skills with this fun twist on bingo. Instead of numbers, you’ll mark off elk themed facts as you learn about their habitat, sounds, antlers, and more. Great for all ages, whether you are an elk expert or just meeting these magnificent animals for the first time.
Sunday, September 20th ~ 2pm Intro to I-Naturalist
Join fall intern, Nadia, to learn about the fun and function of iNaturalist. This interactive presentation will cover the basics of how to use iNaturalist, making high-quality observations, how your flora and fauna photographs can help scientist worldwide and, of course, enjoying the great outdoors with your friends and family!
Saturday, September 26th ~ 2pm Zombies in the Natural World: Cordyceps Fungus & CWD
Ever watch a zombie movie and wonder if that is actually possible? Well, there is a fungus and a disease very similar to zombie symptoms in popular media. Learn all about it at the Elk County Visitor Center with our fall intern Emma!
Sunday, September 27th ~ 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: Jacob Pistner ~ ConEd@kecaus.com
Emma Walters ~ ConEdSp@kecaus.com
Dakota Malmgren ~ ConEdTech@kecaus.com