Community Corner

Enjoy an Owl Prowl and Campfire

National Park Service sponsors Winter Discovery Hike and Owl Prowl on Saturday, Feb. 16, at Johns Creek campus.

On Saturday, Feb. 16, National Park Service Naturalist Jerry Hightower will be a leading a winter walk on the Lutra Loop Trail through the floodplain forest along the beautiful Chattahoochee River from noon to 3:30 pm. 

The trail winds through successional and mature floodplain forest and offers the opportunity for a seasonal look at trees, shrubs and wildflowers. Throughout the walk there will be fascinating facts and fables about Native American and early settler uses of plants for food, medicine and dye. This area is an excellent site to observe wildlife and wildlife signs. This loop trail can be accessed anytime from the public parking at the Jones Bridge Unit.

Later in the evening at the same location, the National Park Service will be hosting its popular Winter Owl Prowl, Campfire and Night Hike program from 6:30 to 10 pm. The Winter Owl Prowl is a wonderful opportunity to learn about owls through several live owl program provided throughout the evening courtesy of the Chattahoochee Nature Center, a National Park Service partner. 

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Participants will enjoy roasting marshmallows around the campfire, stories and songs, children’s crafts in the lodge, and the nocturnal sights, sounds and beauty of the Chattahoochee on a ranger guided night hike. 

These free programs have easy level walking, but participants should dress for the weather and wear comfortable hiking shoes. Bringing binoculars, a hand lens, notebook, flashlights and cameras is encouraged. 

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Both programs will be held at the Chattahoochee River Environmental Education Center, 8615 Barnwell Road, Johns Creek 30022.

 Registered participants should disregard the “Do Not Enter” sign posted on the entrance drive and proceed to the gravel parking area behind the lodge. There is no parking fee at this facility. 

For directions and additional program information see www.nps.gov/chat. Although the programs are free, reservations are required by calling 678-538-1200.


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