2024 Summer Activity Guide

PARKS

Archaeology For Kids Ages 8-12 Designed for upper elementary students, this program includes a hands-on dig, a short history hike, and real-world techniques to demonstrate what archaeology has revealed about the history of Banshee Reeks. Meet at the Education Complex. Sa 2:00-3:00pm 8/24 $10 467243-01 Ages 16+ Relax and recharge by connecting with the natural world under the direction of a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide. Forest bathing can increase immune function, regulate heart rate and blood pressure, lower stress levels, and increase mood and mental clarity. Participants will be guided through a series of invitations to connect with nature through the senses. The walk will be nearly one mile and will end with a forest tea, an herbal blend of a locally foraged plant. Sessions are geared for mature participants. Meet at the Visitor Center. Sa 8:30-11:30am 7/13 $18 467510-01 ADULT Forest Bathing Nature Sketching Ages 16+ Join us for an in-depth nature sketching course from a Virginia Master Naturalist. Learn drawing techniques including color blending, shading, and perspective while practicing your plein-air sketch skills on the trail. Each class is different, and participants are encouraged to attend multiple classes. All art supplies are included in the registration fee. Meet at the Visitor Center. Su 10:00am-12:00pm 6/9 $10 467703-01 Su 10:00am-12:00pm 7/14 $10 467703-02 Su 10:00am-12:00pm 8/11 $10 467703-03 Ages 50+ This monthly series invites active adults to join a Virginia Master Naturalist on a nature hike that blends outdoor exercise, social engagement, and hands-on learning. Meet at the Visitor Center. Sa 10:00-11:00am 6/8 Free 467704-01 Sa 10:00-11:00am 7/13 Free 467704-02 Sa 10:00-11:00am 8/10 Free 467704-03 Senior “Seasoned” Hikers League

BANSHEE REEKS NATURE PRESERVE 21085 The Woods Road, Leesburg, VA 20175 703-737-8894 • loudoun.gov/BansheeReeks Summer Hours: 8:00am-8:00pm Open: Tuesday-Thursday, Saturday & Sunday Closed: Monday, Friday and County Holidays facebook.com/BansheeReeksNaturePreserve

PRESCHOOL AGE Storytime Gone Wild

Ages 6 & under There’s never been a storytime like this! We explore nature stories and wildlife topics each month through interactive hands-on play and crafts. Storytime takes place outdoors in the children’s play area on the 4th Tuesday each month. After storytime, we’ll embark on an easy walk in the woods connected to the seasonal stories we share. In the event of rain, meet in the Education Complex. Tu 9:30-11:30am 6/25 Free 467211-01 Tu 9:30-11:30am 7/23 Free 467211-02 Tu 9:30-11:30am 8/27 Free 467211-03 Wildschooling & Nature Crafts Ages 6 & under Join us for experiential learning and hands-on fun outdoors! Every first Thursday of the month we will explore a different nature theme. All ages and experience levels are encouraged to attend. Program fee is per preschool-age participant; parents/guardians are free. Meet in the Education Complex. *No class in July. Th 9:30-10:30am 6/6 $5 467212-01 Th 9:30-10:30am 8/8 $5 467212-02 ELEMENTARY AGE Junior Ranger Class Ages 6-12 Learn new outdoor skills from a Virginia Master Naturalist while exploring Banshee Reeks. You’ll set up a tent, find your way out of the woods, and identify wildlife tracks. Class will end with a lesson on how to build a campfire and optional s’mores. Youth can be dropped off at the Visitor Center. Advanced registration required. Sa 4:00-6:00pm 8/3 $12 467241-01

Register at loudoun.gov/PRCSConnect

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