Discover adventure and learning on the Lake Loop hike

September 05, 2024| Education, Events, Fundraising, Recreation

By: Kari Constantine

Are you ready for an exciting day of exploration and education? On Sunday, October 6, 2024, join us for the Lake Loop, a family-friendly, self-guided hike through Hopatcong State Park. This is not just a hike; it is an adventure that blends outdoor fun with interactive learning! It is a perfect outing for families, nature enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages!

Our scenic route takes you on a journey through wooded hills, along the shoreline, and past historically significant sites, you'll experience the park’s diverse landscape and rich heritage. This hike, at just under two miles, is designed to be engaging and enjoyable for everyone, including families with young children.

What sets the hike apart from other Lake Loop activities is the emphasis on education. Along the trail, you’ll find multiple interactive educational stations, each manned by engaging and knowledgeable volunteers. These stations offer bite-sized learning experiences including intriguing facts about local wildlife, plant life, and historical landmarks, such as the recently restored Hopatcong State Park fountain.

For those who prefer a self-paced experience, we’ve got you covered! The route and educational content will also be available on our OuterSpatial app (route coming to OuterSpatial soon!).

We know that hiking with young children can be a challenge, which is why we’ve created a shorter, stroller-friendly version, too!  This paved path ensures that families with little ones can comfortably enjoy the hike and take advantage of the educational stops without missing a beat.  We believe in making learning accessible and fun for children, which is why we’re offering a special rate for kids aged 6 to 16 years at just $10, and for the tiniest adventurers (5 and under) the hike is free!  To celebrate their achievement, all children will receive a special patch for completing the hike—a perfect keepsake for their efforts!

The hike is just one of three possible challenges at this year's Lake Loop. Whether you bike, hike, or paddle, it’s an opportunity to get outside and enjoy all our lake has to offer!

Sign up for Lake Loop today.  We can’t wait to see you on October 6!