Princeton NJ Parks & Playgrounds Announcements

May Programs at the Washington Crossing St. Park Nature Center

The following is a list of activities being offered through the Nature Center at Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville, NJ. Some programs are offered free without registration requirements; some will require advanced registration or advanced registration and payment of a nominal program fee as indicated below. A gate fee of $5.00 ($7.00 out-of-state) will be charged to motor vehicles entering the park on weekends and holidays 5/26 - 9/3 (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day). All programs will initially meet at the Nature Center unless otherwise indicated. Attendance is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In the event of inclement weather, some programs might be canceled. It is always advisable to call ahead before coming out. These events are intended for families and individuals only. Programs for scouts, schools and other groups are scheduled separately by special arrangement. For additional information, please call us. Nature Center Phone : (609) 737-0609

WILD EDIBLE PLANTS (3 yrs. - adult) Sunday May 6, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Participants will learn to identify and prepare some of the many native and introduced plants which earlier inhabitants of the area used to supplement their diets. This program will be led by plant lore enthusiast, Pat Chichon of Lambertville. Bring a pair of plant clippers and a garden trowel. Fee: $2.00/person, under 6 yrs. Free. (exact change please). Advanced registration required.

HIKE THE ROCK HOPPER TRAIL (preteen - adult) Sunday May 13, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. The Rock Hopper Trail in West Amwell Twp., is a relatively recent acquisition to the state park system. It contains mature hardwood forests, agricultural fields and interesting rock outcrops. The terrain is gently rolling and rugged. Wear sturdy shoes and bring drinking water. The hike will be 2-4 miles in length. Meet at the parking lot by Neiderer's Pond in WCSP. (Church Rd). We will carpool to the trailhead. Advanced registration required. Call the Nature Center. Free

BALDPATE MOUNTAIN HIKE (pre-teen – adult) Saturday May 19, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. We will take the Summit Trail from its trail head on Fiddlers Creek Rd. Meet at the parking lot by Niederer's Pond (Church Rd). We will carpool to the trail. Advanced registration required. Free.

SOLAR OBSERVATION ( all ages) Saturday May 26, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. View magnetic sun storms safely through special filters via a telescope. Observe sun spots, solar flares, prominences and other solar phenomena. Learn how these storms can affect the earth as well as other interesting facts about Earth's closest star. Jennifer and Dave Skitt and possibly other members of the Amateur Astronomer's Association of Princeton will lead this activity. Clear skies required. Park vehicle entrance fee: $5.00/car. Rain date: Monday May 28, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

FAMILY NATURE WALK (all ages) Sunday May 27, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Join us for an informal naturalist-guided trail walk. Park vehicle entrance Fee: $5.00/vehicle