With refreshing temps coming this weekend, take advantage of the nice weather and head to the park. From a scavenger hunt to panning for gold, these are the park events you should try this weekend.
Ancient Plants Sketch Hike
Saturday, 10 a.m.
Combine your weekend hike with your drawing skills. Go for a 1.5-mile walk with your sketchbook to draw ancients ferns and moss that can be traced back to the time of dinosaurs. Huntley Meadows Park: 3701 Lockheed Blvd., Alexandria; $15
Old Town Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Spend your day exploring the Carlyle House Historic Park and Lee-Fendall House Museum. Pick up your scavenger hunt pack and follow the clues for a free coupon for Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats. A perfect way to end a day in the sun. Lee-Fendall House Museum: 614 Oronoco St., Alexandria; $4-$12
Welcome Campfire
Saturday, 7-8 p.m.
Trek over to Sky Meadows for the first campfire of summer. As you warm up by the fire, listen to the nightlife and hear stories and other offerings at the park. Sky Meadows State Park: 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane; free
Canoe Tours
Sunday, 9-11:30 a.m.
Explore Leesylvania State Park from a stunning water view. As you paddle through the park, catch the sight of the flying bald eagles, ospreys, and other birds that call the park home. Make sure to pack the sunscreen! Leesylvania State Park: 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge; $10
Gold Panning
Sunday, 11 a.m.-noon
Experience the gold rush. Join the park rangers for a lesson in the history of gold in Virginia and how to work a gold pan. Once you become a pro, head down to the pond and use your new skills to search for your own gold nugget. Lake Anna State Park: 6800 Lawyers Rd., Spotsylvania; free
Feature image, © Zoran Zeremski/stock.adobe.com
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