Moreau Lake State Park events planned

MOREAU, N.Y. » The following events are planned at Moreau Lake State Park in September.

• September 3: Migrating Monarchs (11 a.m.-noon). Learn about the monarch butterfly such as migratory patterns, different stages of life, how to identify a male from a female, and how they benefit the environment.

• September 4: Cottage Park hike (10 a.m.- 2 p.m.). About fourplus miles round trip, this is a steep climb to views overlooking the Hudson River.

• September 5: Turtle Time (5-6 p.m.) Learn about turtles, their habits, habitat and diet. Fee is $1 for children and seniors, $2 for others.

• September 6: Knee High Naturalist (10-11 a.m.). This class is intended for children ages 1-6 and their parents/guardians along with any siblings. It includes a short story or two based on the outdoors followed by a short hike. The cost is $1 per child.

• September 10: Lake Bonita Hike (1-3 p.m.) This fairly flat hike goes about two-plus miles around the new property at Lake Bonita.

• September 10: Friend’s Meeting (7 p.m.) The Friends of Moreau Lake State Park is a non-profit organization dedicated to the support and promotion of environmental education programs and other activities at Moreau Lake State Park. New members are always welcome. Meetings are held in the Nature Center.

• September 11: Western Ridge/ Eastern Ridge Loop (10 a.m.-2 p.m.) A long, roughly five-mile hike starts at the Spring Overlook parking area. Bring plenty of water, snacks and a lunch. Fees apply.

• September 12: The Buzz About Bees (5-6 p.m.) See the observational bee hive and learn about the honey bees. Discussion about different bees and how they manage their hive. Fees apply.

• September 13: Red Oak Ridge and Mud Pond Hike (10 a.m.-12 noon). Traverse the Red Oak Ridge trail to the Mud Pond trail and loop it back around. This trek will be about four miles round trip. Fees apply.

• September 14: Stonewall Run Hike (9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.) This trail overlooking the Hudson River is about 3.2 miles round trip.

• September 15: NatureFest (10 a.m.-3 p.m.) A free family fun event hosted by the Friends of Moreau Lake. Educational events, games, crafts, silent auctions, live music and food. Donations suggested.

• September 18: Lake Bonita Hike (1-3 p.m.) This fairly flat hike goes about two-plus miles around the new property at Lake Bonita. • September 19: Critter Crawl (4-5 p.m.) Walk to a nearby creek; look under logs and rocks searching for critters. Fees apply. Meet at park office.

• September 20: Knee High Naturalist (10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) This class is intended for children ages 1-6 and their parents/ guardians along with any siblings. It includes a short story or two based on the outdoors followed by a short hike. The cost is $1 per child.

• September 21: Mud Pond Hike (9-10:30 a.m.) A flat 2.5 miles round-trip hike to see beaver lodges and other wildlife. Fees apply.

• September 21: Moreau Kayak Trip. (10 a.m.-noon). The Park Naturalist will lead this beginner’s paddle around the lake. Kayaks may be rented for $15; persons must be 18 years old to rent.

• September 22: Full Moon Hike 8-10 (p.m.) Led by park naturalist. Fees apply.

• September 25: Eastern Ridge Hike (10 a.m.-2 p.m.) Start this long hike at the Spring Overlook parking area. Meet and pay at the park office.

• September 27: Ridge Run Hike (10 a.m.-1 p.m.) This moderate hike is about 3.5 miles round trip past the overlook of Moreau Lake.

All programs are held weather permitting and are subject to change. Call the park office to confirm event date, time and location. Participants should be prepared to spend time outside and are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

There are program fees with all classes and some activities such as hikes. Registration is required for all classes and most activities. Ask for the price when registering for each class or activity.

Moreau Lake State Park is located off Northway Exit 17 S.

For information or to register for programs, call (518) 793-0511.