Junior Hikers Program Launches: Inspiring Young Adventurers to Explore WNY's Natural Wonders

North Tonawanda – A new opportunity for young residents to connect with nature, build resilience, and develop essential outdoor skills is emerging with the launch of the Junior Hikers program. Designed for children aged 6 to 18 residing in the NT, this initiative promises a blend of education, physical activity, and environmental stewardship through guided hiking trips across Western New York's most scenic trails.

The Junior Hikers program aims to foster a deep appreciation for the natural world by providing participants with hands-on outdoor experiences. Young adventurers will learn about local wildlife and plant life, master crucial outdoor skills such as map reading and navigation, and gain a thorough understanding of "Leave No Trace" principles.

Beyond environmental education, the program emphasizes the development of teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving abilities through engaging group challenges and activities.

Experienced guides will ensure a safe and supportive environment, making the program accessible and enjoyable for both seasoned young hikers and first-timers.

Program Options and Benefits:

Families have two flexible options to participate:

1. Full Summer Package ($150 per child): This comprehensive package includes a one-year Junior Hiker membership, participation in four guided summer hikes to some of WNY's most beautiful trails, and an array of essential gear. Each child will receive their hiking pack, a hiking first aid kit for their pack, and a Junior Hiker membership patch. The fee also covers bus transportation to and from the hiking trails (departing from 500 Wheatfield St), along with snacks for the bus, trail snacks, and lunch during each trip. A sibling discount is available.

2. Flexible Membership & Per-Trip Option: For those unable to commit to all four summer trips, a flexible option allows children to join as official Junior Hiker members for a one-time fee of $40 per calendar year. This membership grants access to trips planned for the fall, winter, and spring, in addition to the summer offerings. Individual hiking trips can be booked for $30 per person per hike.

All Junior Hiker members receive an "Intro to Hiking" presentation, their trail pack, a first aid kit, a membership patch, trail maps for program hikes and other WNY trails, and access to trail links and event updates. Participants will also earn trail patches upon completion of each Junior Hiker trip.

Mandatory "Intro to Hiking" Presentation:

Parents and children are encouraged to attend an essential "Intro to Hiking" presentation on Monday, June 30, at 6 PM at the Norman Keller Building (500 Wheatfield St). This meeting will cover vital basics about trail hiking, including how to read a trail map, trail safety, "Leave No Trace" policies, understanding trail blazes, and clothing preparedness.

Summer Hike Schedule (Departing from 500 Wheatfield St at 9:30 AM for all trips):

• TRIP #1: RESCHEDULED – Monday, October 13 to Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve (93 Honorine Dr, Depew, NY 14043)

• TRIP #2: Friday, July 25 to John B. Austin Nature Trail (6656 Slayton Settlement Rd, Lockport, NY 14094)

• TRIP #3: Friday, August 8 to Royaltine Ravine (4662 Gasport Rd, Gasport, NY 14067)

• TRIP #4: Friday, August 22 to Eternal Flame Hiking Trail (Orchard Park, NY 14127)

  
  

By the end of the program, Junior Hikers will not only have improved physical fitness and outdoor knowledge but also cultivated a profound appreciation for the natural world around them.

Join the Junior Hikers program for an unforgettable journey where adventure and learning go hand in hand! For registration and further details, attend the introductory meeting on June 30th.

About Junior Hikers: The Junior Hikers program is dedicated to inspiring young people aged 6-18 to engage with nature, build resilience, and develop essential outdoor skills through guided hiking experiences in Western New York. The program emphasizes environmental stewardship, teamwork, and leadership in a safe and supportive environment.