Field Trips
Thursday January 1, 7:30 AM - 9 PM
Claytor Lake State Park First Day Hikes
6620 Ben H. Bolen Dr., Dublin, VA 24084 (Free Parking!)
Start 2026 at 7:30 AM at Shelter #1 with the First Light Hike! Then continue to the Howe House for a 10:30 AM bird walk for a good look at waterfowl and woodland species. Don’t forget your binoculars and extra warm clothing! PARKING IS FREE!
Saturday January 17, 4:30 PM
Deerfield Trail, 1200 Deerfield Dr, Blacksburg
From US 460 bypass take Toms Creek Rd exit, go west to intersection with Deerfield Dr. Meet at trailhead. We will try our skill at finding Great-horned Owls. Dress for warmth and bring a small flashlight.
Sunday January 25, 2:00 PM
Claytor Lake State Park, 6620 Ben H. Bolen Dr, Dublin
https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/claytor-lake
Parking: $7- Bring your state park pass or use a self-pay envelope at the unstaffed entrance station on Sundays.
Meet in the park near the historic Howe House/Visitor Center. Led by Bill Akers, we will search for loons, grebes, coots and other recently arrived waterfowl. We will up the species count with woodland species on trails around the lake. There will be at least one scope to share, so bring another if you have one. Dress warmly as it is exposed and often windy.
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