Marla Ballard Columnist
There is no need to wait for a weekend to enjoy local activities.
On Thursday, April 4 there are two events to choose from. Children age three to third grade can enjoy a hands-on free program. Junior Adventurers-Fun with Fungus nature class will be presented from 10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. in the parking lot of Little River Canyon Center.
The event is by the Jacksonville State University (JSU) Field School. Adults are asked to register their children ahead of the event. Email rmtaylor@jsu.edu or call 256-845-3548. Dress appropriately for outdoor weather conditions.
On the same day, those ages eight to adult are invited to join a hike at DeSoto State Park. The event is a Nature Journal-Journey Hike. Join naturalists and artists on an observation hike that combines art with nature. The focus will be on keeping a nature journal while strolling along the DeSoto State Park trails.
The hike will be from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. and cover a 1.5-mile loop to the west fork of Little River; the journey will allow for a respite to journal.
The hike is considered moderate due to the uneven terrain. Bring a backpack with water/sports drinks, snacks/lunch, and something to sit on if preferred. A $5 fee will provide watercolor paper, watercolor pencils, and clip board. Preregistration required at https://reserve.alapark.com/register DSP-Journal-Journey. Bring along a favorite journal.
For those who find the weekend a better fit for their schedule, DeSoto State Park will have a hike in search of spring blooms on Saturday, April 6.
Meet for the free hike at the Country Store on C.R. 89, inside the park, at 1 p.m. Meander through the forest on a two-hour hike learning to identify plants native to the southern Appalachians. Participants are encouraged to bring a notebook and camera. The hike is approximately 1.5 miles in length and considered moderate due to the slightly rocky terrain. No registration required.
All hikers are encouraged to bring water and a hiking pole, wear closed toed shoes, dress for the weather, bring sun protection, and check ahead for cancellations due to weather. GPS is not reliable in the park, go; to www.alapark.com/DSP-Plan-Your-Trip for map directions. Contact Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more information.
A Fly Fishing 101 Workshop will take place on Sunday, April 7 from 2 p.m.-5:00 p.m. The Little River Canyon Center is offering the workshop held by the JSU Field School. Dr. Tim Lindblom will teach the basics of gear selection, knots, fly selection and casting instructions.
Participants will receive hands-on experience and the opportunity to make their first catch. Ages 14 and older are welcome.
Registration is required. There is a $75 fee per participant/$35 for JSU students with student identification. All equipment is provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own. Everyone is encouraged to bring water, snack, and sun protection. Call Little River Canyon Center for registration information 256-845-3548.
On Monday, April 8 an Eclipse Viewing Party will be held at Little River Canyon Center, hosted by JSU Field School from 12:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. CT.
The event is free and no registration is required. Those attending will learn the science behind solar eclipses through STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) activities and crafts.
Music, food and more will make the rare eclipse festive.
Eclipse viewing glasses are for sale at the gift shop, while supplies last.
Guests can watch the total eclipse live broadcast through the eyes of NASA in both English and Spanish. Arrive at noon to witness the eclipse. A total solar eclipse only lasts between 2.5 to 4.5 minutes. The next eclipse of this nature will be in 2044.
Little River Canyon Center is located at 4322 AL-35, Fort Payne.
