SATURDAY, July 6, 10:30 a.m. LIFE AROUND THE LAKE. Snake are the focus for this week’s topic. The many snakes that live in and near the lake have many adaptations to survive this watery habitat. Their survival are discussed in this 60 minute program. MEET AT BRAY LAKE.

SATURDAY, July 6, 1:00 p.m. HIKE AROUND BRAY LAKE. This 1 ½ – 2 hour hike travels around Bray Lake on the outer loop. The terrain is mostly easy with a few moderately strenuous spots. Discussions center around the lake and its inhabitants. MEET AT STONEHOUSE VISITOR CENTER. Bring water and bug spray.

SUNDAY, July 7, 10:30 a.m. BIRDING FOR BEGINNERS. This one hour program is meant to help beginners learn the basics of birding. The use of bird guides, lists and binoculars are used to learn about these feathered creatures.

SUNDAY, July 7, 1:00 p.m. SUNDAY AFTERNOON FAMILY PROGRAM. The title for this week’s program is “ANIMAL HOMES” Everything needs a home of some kind even animals in the wild. This program explores where each animals chooses their favorite spot for a safe and comfy abode.

MONDAY, July 8, 10:30 a.m. JUNIOR RANGERS. Children ages 5-6 are welcome to participate in this 4 week program to become a certified Junior Ranger. Through exploration, crafts and games, participants can receive an official Junior Ranger patch and certificate. Each child must attend 3 out of 4 classes to qualify for this status.

MONDAY, July 8, 1:00 p.m. ADVANCED HIKE FOR SENIORS. Seniors and others who want more of a challenging hike can join in on this one-two hour hike up one of the more strenuous trails. The hike on these trails is at a slower pace to accommodate this age bracket. Bring water.

TUESDAY, July 9, 10:30 a.m. SENIOR HIKE. Seniors can join in on this easy paced one hour hike. The terrain is mostly easy and the nature talk quite abundant. Bring water and bug spray

TUESDAY, July 9, 2:00 p.m. EXPLORERS CLUB. This weekly 1-2 hour program lets children ages 10-14 learn map reading skills, trail markings and proper hiking techniques as we travel on all the trails here at Mt. Tom. Plus of course nature is observed closely. Bring water and bug spray.

These programs are sponsored by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and are free and open to the public. For more information please call 527-4805. Mt. Tom State Reservation is located on the Holyoke/Easthampton, MA. line with entrances on Rts. 5 and 141.

UNLESS NOTED ALL PROGRAMS START AT THE STONE HOUSE VISITOR CENTER WHICH IS ABOUT 2 MILES FROM EITHER ENTRANCE. There is a FIVE dollar per car fee on weekends and holidays.