NATURE EXCURSION: Guided Hikes at Soldiers Delight Natural Environmental Area

A unique opportunity for an intimate look at the Endangered Serpentine Ecosystem of Soldiers Delight. Experience the truly distinctive and globally rare ecosystem of Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area, with the guidance of experts, Laura Van Scoyoc, President of Soldiers Delight Conservation, Inc. (SDCI), and Dr. R. Wayne Tyndall. Both have dedicated years to studying, restoring, and conserving the unique flora and rich biodiversity which thrives in the unusual substrate of serpentine bedrock. As you encounter wildflowers that grow in few other places, you will learn about the unusual circumstances which created this special habitat and witness first-hand the results of efforts of conservationists who are working hard to preserve it for generations to come, even in the face of a changing climate and overuse of trails during the pandemic. Find out more about this unique habitat in our May Eat, Drink, & Learn event.

Two hikes will be offered: Saturday, a shorter, gentler, 1-mile walk on easier terrain, for those who would like to experience the barrens, without trekking across rockier sections of the habitat. Sunday, the entire 2.5-mile circumference of the Serpentine Trail, portions of which are fairly uneven and more challenging to traverse. Both hikes will be led by Laura Van Scoyoc, and possibly Dr. R. Wayne Tyndall, retired Plant Ecologist with the Maryland DNR and scientific advisor to SDCI. Participants are invited stay after for a casual Q&A with Laura. Bring a snack/lunch to enjoy post-hike.

Instructor: Laura Scoyoc, President of SDCI
Saturday & Sunday, June 17-18th
10:00 (length varies)
Cost:$10-20/participant

Register for either the Saturday or Sunday hike HERE.