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Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Nearby nature


If you're in 'staycation' mode this year or just want to take an afternoon off, you might want to re-discover two of our nearest parks, Peace Valley and Green Lane Park.
Both are centered around reservoirs, and are run by the counties they are situated in.


Peace Valley Park in Bucks County is the smaller of the two and surrounds Lake Galena. Boat rentals are available on the southern side of the lake, along with a boat launch, restrooms, and picnic tables. The north side features two picnic pavillions, another boat launch and a playground. A paved walking trail rings the entire lake, attached to several parking lots.
You can get more information about the park HERE and information about the Peace Valley Nature Center, which is situated at the eastern end of the lake, HERE. The center has many programs for adults and kids, including night hikes and singles events.



Green Lane Park in Montgomery County features several lakes, creeks, waterfalls, miles and miles of trails for both people and horses and more.

Most people know the Upper Perkiomen Valley Park, which surrounds Deep Creek Lake at the eastern end of the park. Here you will find an extensive groomed park with picnic facilities, large mowed fields, a ship-themed playground and a small camping area. Campsites are located behind the park ranger station, and are the drive-up kind each featuring a level grassy or gravel area to set up tents.
The park is the home to the popular annual Irish Scottish festival, which is scheduled for September 5-7. Information on this event is available HERE.
Hitting the trails is the best way to explore the rest of this expansive park. To the east of Deep Creek Lake is a rock-filled creek, a favorite with fishermen and kids who like to climb on rocks.

To the west is the bulk of the reservoir, which is best accessed by boat. There are two boat rental concessions at the park; you can get a rowboat or a boat with a small electric motor for a small fee. On weekends, the boats do go fast, and are rented on a first-come, first-serve basis. Park rules only allow three people to a boat, one of whom must have a driver's license to surrender.

An extensive trail system set up for both people and horses surrounds the park, winding through a variety of natural settings. Most of these are dirt trails through undeveloped areas, so good walking shoes or boots and sun / bug protection are highly recommended.
Information on Green Lane Park can be found HERE.
Behind nearby Marlborough Elementary School on Route 29 is the Green Lane Nature Center, which features many programs for kids and adults. One of their big events is a maple sugaring demonstration from their own trees in February. Their website appears non-functional, but you can call 215-234-8497 for information on the center.

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