Shenandoah National Park dedicates second TRACK Trails activity trail

To encourage children and their families to get outdoors, Shenandoah National Park has again partnered with the Kids in Parks program to establish a second TRACK Trails location. This trail is located at the Blackrock Summit trail. Supported with a grant from the Shenandoah National Park Trust, this new activity trail includes an introductory exhibit and new activity guide. The public is invited to attend an opening ceremony on Friday, May 29 at 11:45 a.m. The trail dedication will take place at the Blackrock Summit parking area at milepost 84.8.

Jim Northup, Superintendent of Shenandoah National Park said, “With over 500 miles of trails, Shenandoah offers outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities. As kid-friendly trail, Blackrock Summit is a great place for visitors to both experience the Park and participate in the TRACK Trails program. Children who complete the new ‘Hiking the Appalachian National Scenic Trail’ activity guide can also use it in support of their Shenandoah Junior Ranger Program requirements. It’s a great way to have fun outside and learn at the same time.”

According to Kids in Parks Director Jason Urroz, “Research shows that people have become increasingly disengaged from nature, spending less time in our parks and outdoor places, while spending more time “plugged-in” to electronic media. On average, kids spend 7.65 hours per day “plugged-in” and only an average of 7 minutes per day in unstructured outdoor play. The Kids in Parks program grew out of a vision to address these trends by getting kids “unplugged” and physically active in parks for their health and the health of our parks.” Kids in Parks is an expanding network of family-friendly outdoor adventures called TRACK Trails. Each TRACK Trail features self-guided brochures and signs that turn your visit into a fun and exciting outdoors experience. For more information on Kids in Parks visit http://www.kidsinparks.com .

Visitors are reminded that there is a $20-per-car entrance fee to Shenandoah National Park which is good for seven days. For more information about these events and other park programs, visit the Shenandoah National Park website at www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit.