Learn about the history of Boalsburg while exploring trails through the Boal Estate
During the week of Aug. 20, ClearWater Conservancy’s Centred Outdoors program will host free wellness activities at the Boal Estate — site of the historic Boal Mansion and three miles of mulched trails featuring diverse flora and conservation projects.
Located an 8-minute drive from downtown State College, the Boal Mansion Trails are new to Centred Outdoors’ installment of guided summer outings this year.
Centred Outdoors will offer informative guided hikes of trails through the Boal Estate on Sunday, Aug. 20 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; and Thursday, Aug. 24 at 9 and 11 a.m. Prior registration is not required for any Centred Outdoors event, though reservations are required for the program’s free shuttle van service when available.
According to Centred Outdoors’ 2023 Passport, the trail is one mile long with a difficulty rating of “easy.” Along the route, participants will see a variety of habitats ranging from wetlands to forests, as well as over 1,000 tree shelters put in place to promote further species diversity.
“During the walks, participants will learn about the history of Boalsburg and the Boal family, the vision behind the newly constructed trails at Boal Mansion and the natural history of the Boal Mansion grounds,” said Olivia Stas, ClearWater Conservancy’s Assistant Adventure Coordinator.
Centred Outdoors recommends that participants wear sturdy shoes, like sneakers or hiking boots, and bring 32 oz. of water per adult. Hikers are encouraged to protect against sun and insects with sprays or protective wear, but Centred Outdoors will also have sunscreen and bug spray at the welcome tent on site.
Centred Outdoors will also host its Wellness Wednesday activity, Yoga and Outdoor Mindfulness, at the Boal Estate on Aug. 23, at 6 p.m. The event will be hosted by yoga instructor, artist and “Pennsylvania Master Naturalist” Stephanie Koller and co-hosted by the Centre County Community Diversity Group.
Koller will lead participants through “slow-flowing movements, easy to follow postures, Tibetan sound healing/chanting, self-applied massage, breath work and a guided meditation,” according to the program website. People of all abilities are welcome to attend.
Participants of guided hikes and yoga events should park in the designated area by the Boal Estate barn and expect to see a Centred Outdoors tent set up near the trailhead.
Those needing transportation to the Wellness Wednesday yoga event can reserve a ride through the Centred Outdoors Van Service. Reservations can be made up to one week prior to the event.
Centred Outdoors also allows participants to rent gear like trekking poles, daypacks and child-carrying backpacks from its Gear Library. Those interested should submit requests at least 48 hours before an event.
For more information about all upcoming guided outings and Wellness Wednesday activities, visit Centred Outdoors’ Events page.
Grace Miller is a freelance writer for ClearWater Conservancy.
