1. Take a walk around Riverside Park in Greenville, PA
Riverside Park in Greenville, PA is a beautiful place to take a walk and enjoy nature. The park is located on the banks of the Shenango River and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. The park features several walking trails that wind through the trees and along the river, providing stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape. You can also bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the many picnic tables and pavilions located throughout the park. For those who enjoy fishing, the Shenango River is stocked with a variety of fish species and is a popular spot for anglers. There are spots right along the bank in the park for fishing. You can also rent a canoe or kayak and explore the river on your own from our friends at Carried Away Outfitters! In addition to the natural beauty of the park, there are also several playgrounds, a basketball court, and soon to be pickleball courts available for visitors to use. Overall, Riverside Park is a wonderful place to spend a relaxing afternoon and enjoy the outdoors.
2. Go on hike at Goddard or Moraine Parks
Pennsylvania is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the United States, and hiking is one of the best ways to experience them. Two of the most popular hiking destinations in the state are Goddard and Moraine Park. Both offer unique experiences that are worth exploring. Goddard State Park is located in Sandy Lake and is known for the beautiful Lake Wilhelm. The park offers a variety of hiking trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, the Goddard Loop Trail is a great option. This trail is about 9 miles long and takes you through a variety of terrain, including the woods, open fields and more boggy areas. Along the way, you’ll also get some great views of the lake. Moraine State Park is located down in Portersville and is home to the beautiful Lake Arthur. The park offers over 28 miles of hiking trails, including the popular 7.5-mile North Country Trail. This trail takes you through a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. Along the way, you’ll also get some great views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. No matter which park you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for the weather. Both parks are great places to go hiking and enjoy the beauty of nature in Pennsylvania.
3. Ride your bike around Lake Wilhelm
Lake Wilhelm, located around Sandy Lake, is a beautiful and scenic destination that is perfect for a bike ride. The lake is surrounded by picturesque hills, sprawling forests, and a variety of wildlife, making it an ideal place for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. When cycling around Lake Wilhelm, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery while getting some exercise and fresh air. The route around the lake is approximately 12 miles long and is suitable for riders of all skill levels. The terrain is mostly flat, with a few gentle hills along the way. During your ride, be sure to stop and take in the sights and sounds of the lake. You may spot some of the local wildlife, such as bald eagles, ospreys, and white-tailed deer. There are also several picnic areas and rest stops along the way, where you can take a break and enjoy a snack or a drink. Overall, riding your bike around Lake Wilhelm is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Pennsylvania’s natural landscape. So grab your bike, hit the trail, and enjoy the ride!
4. Do some small outdoor gardening
Small outdoor gardening is a great way to connect with nature and grow your own fresh produce. Whether you have a small balcony or a tiny patch of land, there are plenty of options for starting your own garden. First, consider the amount of sunlight your outdoor space receives. Most vegetables and herbs need at least six hours of direct sunlight to thrive. If your space is shady, consider planting leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale that can tolerate less sun. Next, choose the right soil for your plants. Most vegetables prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you may want to amend it with compost or purchase a high-quality potting mix. When it comes to selecting plants, start with easy-to-grow varieties like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and herbs like basil and parsley. These plants require minimal care and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Finally, be sure to water your plants regularly and fertilize them as needed. With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy fresh, healthy produce right from your own backyard!
5. Kayak down the Shenango River
The Shenango River is a beautiful river stretching over 80 miles from its source in Pymatuning State Park to where it meets the Beaver River in New Castle. Kayaking down the river is a popular activity, and for good reason. The river offers a relaxing and scenic way to explore the natural beauty of the area, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. One of the most popular stretches to kayak on the Shenango River is from Pymatuning State Park to the Shenango Dam. This section of the river is gentle and calm, perfect for beginners or those looking for a more leisurely paddle. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful wooded areas and see a variety of birds and other wildlife. There are also several places to stop and picnic or swim along the way.
For those more experienced kayakers, the stretch of river from the Shenango Dam to New Castle offers a bit more of a challenge. This section of the river is faster moving, with some rapids and small drops, making it a fun and exciting adventure for those up for the challenge. You’ll still be surrounded by beautiful scenery and have the chance to see some wildlife along the way. Overall, kayaking down the Shenango River is a wonderful way to spend a day or weekend in Western Pennsylvania, and is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who try it.
Thank You
We hope these ideas helped get your creative juices flowing into even more adventures you can do with your family outdoors. If you have any questions or suggestions, please email us at Hi@familygreatness.flywheelsites.com