Hike with a Mini Horse

Nature & Healing at Black River Sanctuary

Wildlands Conservancy is partnering with Equi-librium’s Mobile Miniature Horse Outreach Program for a truly unique event: Hike with a Mini Horse! Join Equi-librium, Inc., along with their smallest therapy horses for an educational and recreational walk at Black River Sanctuary in Bethlehem that blends the healing power of animals with the restorative benefits of nature.

Our Wildlands Conservancy educator will guide you on a 1.5 - 2 mile hike through the preserve alongside Equi-librium’s equine companion. Please note: this trail is moderate to challenging, with rocks, roots, and some steep inclines.

Walking with a miniature horse is more than just a gentle stroll, it’s a chance to slow down, reconnect, and find balance for both body and mind. At the horse’s natural pace, you’ll be encouraged to walk mindfully, breathe deeply, and notice the world around you, from the crunch of leaves underfoot to the steady rhythm of hooves beside you.

Together, we’ll explore how time in nature, combined with the calming presence of horses, can reduce stress, improve well-being, and deepen our connection to the land and one another.

A perfect outing for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about the transformative bond between people, animals, and wild places.

Questions? Contact Nlandis@wildlandspa.org

Join us for a moonlit Hoot Hike, where we’ll step into the woods in search of owls and other nocturnal creatures. Along the way, we’ll listen for calls, learn about the owls’ nighttime adaptations, and even try out a few “hoots” of our own to see who might answer back.

This adventurous hike will take you about 1.5 miles over rocky, rooty, and sometimes steep terrain—all in the dark. Be sure to come prepared with sturdy footwear, a flashlight or headlamp, and your sense of curiosity..

 

Questions: Nicole Landis at Nlandis@wildlandspa.org

Date: November 14
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Location: Lake Minsi East Access, 200 E. Shore Drive, Bangor, PA 18013
Length: 3 miles
Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Join us for a scenic autumn hike around beautiful Lake Minsi, a popular 117-acre destination known for its fishing, birdwatching, and natural beauty. This 3-mile guided hike begins at the Lake Minsi East Access and follows the shoreline through the forested Minsi Lake Wilderness Area.

While the trail is mostly level, the first quarter-mile is rocky. Along the way, we'll cross several small streams, visit the remains of a family-built trout nursery dating back to the 1930s, and enjoy views from the lake's West Access docks. We'll also walk across the dam and explore the spillway before returning to the East Access parking area.

This hike is appropriate for all ages and offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy nature, learn local history, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

What to Bring:

• Water and snacks
• Comfortable walking shoes that may get wet
• Layers appropriate for the weather
• Hiking poles are recommended (Wildlands will have poles available to borrow)

Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed at all times.

Meeting Location

Lake Minsi East Access
200 E. Shore Drive
Bangor, PA 18013

GPS Coordinates: 40.91314, -75.16527

Directions

From PA-33 North (toward Stroudsburg), take the exit toward Belfast. Turn right onto Henry Road, then right onto Belfast Road. Continue to PA-191 North/Bangor Road and follow for approximately 10 miles. Turn right onto Lake Minsi Drive, continue for 1.3 miles, then stay left on Lake Minsi Drive for another 1.4 miles. Turn left onto East Shore Drive and continue 0.4 miles. Turn left again and follow the access road to the Lake Minsi East Access parking area. We will meet near the portable restroom at the far end of the parking lot.
 

These programs are possible thanks to generous funding from Jefferson + LVHN.+ LVHN

Questions: Nicole Landis at Nlandis@wildlandspa.org

Join us for a moonlit Hoot Hike, where we’ll step into the woods in search of owls and other nocturnal creatures. Along the way, we’ll listen for calls, learn about the owls’ nighttime adaptations, and even try out a few “hoots” of our own to see who might answer back.

This adventurous hike will take you about 1.5 miles over rocky, rooty, and sometimes steep terrain—all in the dark. Be sure to come prepared with sturdy footwear, a red light/flashlight or headlamp, and your sense of curiosity..

 

This program is offered free thanks to funding from Lehgih County. 

 

Questions: Nicole Landis at Nlandis@wildlandspa.org

Join Wildlands Conservancy for a guided late-fall hike through the woods and reflect on the many things nature provides, from clean water and healthy forests to wildlife habitat, open space, and places to explore and reconnect.

Along the way, we’ll look for signs of wildlife preparing for winter, discover some of the plants and natural features that make the preserve special, and learn more about the connections between healthy ecosystems and our communities. We’ll also take a moment to share what we’re thankful for in nature and consider how we can give back to the lands and waterways we enjoy.

Come enjoy a peaceful November walk, connect with nature, and give thanks for the wild places around us.

Distance: Approximately 1.5–2 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Questions: Nicole Landis at Nlandis@wildlandspa.org

 

Join Wildlands Conservancy and special guest Dr. Frank J. Pazzaglia, Professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Lehigh University, for a guided geology exploration of Wildlands' South Mountain Preserve!

Discover the fascinating geological history of South Mountain as we explore the landscape and uncover the natural forces that have shaped it over millions of years. Along the way, learn about ongoing geological research at the preserve and get an up-close look at the science behind the landscape through a sand and gravel demonstration.

Whether you're a geology enthusiast or simply curious about the ground beneath your feet, this unique experience offers an opportunity to see South Mountain from a whole new perspective!

Please note: This program includes a 1–1.5-mile guided hike over potentially strenuous terrain. Trails may be steep, rocky, root-covered, and uneven. Participants should come prepared with sturdy footwear and be comfortable navigating challenging trail conditions.

For questions contact Nicole Landis, Nlandis@wildlandspa.org.

Step into the wild and discover the essential skills needed to thrive in the great outdoors! Join us for Wilderness Survival, a hands-on program designed for anyone eager to learn the basics of outdoor survival in a fun and supportive environment. Get ready to dive into survival basics.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer, a curious beginner, or just looking for a fun way to spend time outside, this program has something for everyone. Come solo, with family, or bring friends, everyone is welcome to explore the skills needed to survive and thrive in nature.

Your registration matters! If you’re unable to attend, please let us know in advance.

This program is offered free of charge, thanks to funding from Northampton County

For question contact Nicole Landis, Nlandis@wildlandspa.org.

Winter Solstice Forest Bathing for Wellness and Recovery
In collaboration with Stacey Vinci, LMFT

Celebrate the turning of the seasons with Winter Solstice Forest Bathing for Wellness and Recovery. This guided program is part of a seasonal series designed to support healing, mindfulness, and personal growth by aligning with nature’s transitions throughout the year.

Led by Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Stacey Vinci, you’ll slow down, quiet the mind, and engage your senses through gentle, intentional activities inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku (“forest bathing”). As the forest rests in winter, the crisp air, stillness, and quiet beauty of the season offer an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and the natural world.

Important Details:

• Participants may walk up to approximately 1 mile on moderate terrain.
• Dress for the weather.

This program is open to individuals from all walks of recovery; whether from substance use, trauma, grief, mental health challenges, or life transitions. No prior experience is needed, just an open heart and a willingness to be present.


Questions? Contact Nicole Landis at Nlandis@wildlandspa.org

Bundle up and join Wildlands for a winter hike on the scenic trails of Brenner-Penfield Macungie Mountain Preserve! We’ll follow winding switchbacks up Macungie Mountain, making our way through the winter woods to Sheep Rock, where we’ll pause to take in the view looking west across the landscape.

Along the way, we’ll explore the forest in its winter season and keep our eyes and ears open for birds and other wildlife. The hike will be approximately 2 miles and will primarily follow an out-and-back route, with a short loop along the Spicebush Trail. For those looking for a little more adventure and who are comfortable on steeper terrain, there will be an optional opportunity to continue down the west side of the mountain toward Reimert Memorial Bird Haven.

This hike is appropriate for all ages and is a great way to get outside, enjoy the winter landscape, and experience the preserve at a quieter time of year.

What to Bring: Water and snacks. Dress in layers of non-cotton clothing appropriate for the weather and wear comfortable footwear that can handle potentially wet or muddy conditions. We’ll cross a small stream, which may be more challenging following heavy rain. Hiking poles are optional, and Wildlands will have poles available to borrow. Leashed dogs are welcome.

Please note that there are no bathrooms available at the preserve.

Parking is limited and tight at the preserve. Please carpool if possible. We appreciate your help in making the most of the available parking space.

Date: December 19
Time: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Distance: Approximately 2 miles
Location: 6691 Sweetwood Drive, Macungie, PA 18062

GPS: 40.49590, -75.55746

Directions

From I-78 or PA-309, take Exit 54 for Hamilton Blvd, west toward Wescosville. Turn left onto Kressler Road and travel approximately 250 feet. Turn right onto Hamilton Blvd and continue for 0.5 miles.

At the traffic light, turn left onto Brookside Road. Continue for approximately 3.6 miles to the traffic light at Buckeye Road. Turn right onto Buckeye Road, which becomes North Chestnut Street, and follow it for approximately 0.5 miles to Route 100/East Main Street in Macungie.

Continue straight across Route 100 onto South Chestnut Street, which becomes Sweetwood Drive. Follow Sweetwood Drive for approximately 1.2 miles. Stay straight on Sweetwood Drive—do not turn left onto Macungie Mountain Road. Continue for approximately 0.3 miles.

Look for the Brenner-Penfield Macungie Mountain Preserve sign on your right. Turn into the parking lot and park snugly!

This program is made possible by funding from Jefferson Health – Lehigh Valley Health Network.+ LVHN

Questions: Nicole Landis at Nlandis@wildlandspa.org