SATURDAY, June 29, 10:30 a.m. LIFE AROUND THE LAKE. Mammals that live in and around the lake is the focus for this week’s topic. Our furry friends are roaming all around this good size body of water. Find out what they need to do to survive and thrive in this watery habitat. MEET AT BRAY LAKE.

SATURDAY, June 29, 1:00 p.m. HIKE THE BEAU BRIDGE TRAIL. This 2-3 hour hike travels on the Beau Bridge Trail right next to a bubbling brook. Along the way many natural wonders are there to be discussed about and explored. Bring water and bug spray.

SUNDAY, June 30, 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, JUNE 30, 1:00 p.m. PATRIOTIC CHALK DRAWING. The 4th is only few days away and this is your chance to express your patriotism with artwork. Sidewalk chalk will be provided for anyone who would like to draw their favorite patriotic symbol on our designated spot.

MONDAY, July 1, 10:30 a.m. NATURE STORY TIME. This one hour program provides the opportunity for children and adults to hear some of their favorite nature stories read out loud. Also bring one of your favorite books and hear that story read to all.

MONDAY, July 1, 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 2, 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 2, 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.