Little Juniata Natural Area showcases ‘unique geology,’ sights of the ‘Little J’ river
During the week of July 16, Centred Outdoors will host free guided hikes through the Little Juniata Natural Area — one of seven locations added to Centred Outdoors’ guided summer outings this year.
The natural area is known for its “unique geology” and sights of the Little Juniata River, according to the Centred Outdoors program website. The trail through the Natural Area, located about 40 minutes from downtown State College in Barree, PA, is 1.25 miles long and rated “easy” by Centred Outdoors.
The guided hikes at the Little Juniata Natural Area will take place on Sunday, July 16, from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1-2:30 p.m. and Thursday, July 20, from 9-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Registration is not required for any Centred Outdoors events.
Little Juniata Natural Area is one of six natural areas in the Rothrock State Forest. As a protected “natural area,” the PA Department of Conservation & Natural Resources says the area is “managed” by nature with limited human interactions. They act as areas that allow for natural observation, preserve unique plant and animal communities and “conserve outstanding examples of natural beauty.”
“A natural area holds scenic, historic, geological, or ecological significance, so development and maintenance in these areas has been limited in order to protect these resources,” ClearWater Conservancy’s Assistant Adventure Coordinator Olivia Stas said. “We want to share this important conservation story with our audience.”
Rothrock State Park’s other protected “natural areas” are the Alan Seeger Natural Area, the Bear Meadows Natural Area, the Big Flat Laurel Natural Area, the Detweiler Run Natural Area and the Rocky Ridge Natural Area.
Prior to the Clean Water Act of 1972, The Little Juniata River, also known as “little j,” was the dumping ground for raw sewage and industrial waste. In the years that followed the Act, modern waste treatment plants were erected, and Hurricane Agnes of 1972 flushed out the water. According to Antis Township’s History of the Little Juniata River, after flood waters receded, the Little Juniata “flowed clear and cool for the first time in over a hundred years.”
Today, the river is classified as a “Class A” wild brown trout fishery” and is a popular site for fly fishing in Centre County.
Along the hike, participants can expect to learn more about the conversation story of the area, Stas said.
“Clearwater Conservancy is guided by four compass points: connect, protect, restore and steward. As Clearwater’s community touchpoint, Centred Outdoors aims to invite the community to enjoy these outdoor spaces, but we also share the conservation stories of the land that we are visiting,” Stas said. “We want our participants to recognize the importance of the conservation work that we do, and we will always encourage them to join us in being stewards of the land that we live and recreate on.”
Centred Outdoors recommends participants wear sturdy shoes — like sneakers or hiking boots — and bring at least 32 oz. of water per person. Attendees should note the area has limited cell service.
Those looking for additional gear such as trekking poles, daypacks and child-carrying backpacks can request items from the Centred Outdoors Gear Library at least 48 hours ahead of the desired outing.
Centred Outdoors also offers limited transportation to events via shuttle van services. The shuttle van service is available for the 11 a.m.-1 p.m. outings on July 16 and 20. Ride reservations are available a week before the event and can be made here.
Additional information about upcoming Centre Outdoors’ guided hikes and outings can be found at www.centredoutdoors.org.
Grace Miller is a freelance writer for ClearWater Conservancy.
