by Sara Haxby, KTA Program Administrator
KTA celebrated yet another Spring Hiking and Meeting Weekend in Wellsboro, Tioga County. Over 130 determined hikers set out into what became an actual snowstorm on Saturday, April 9. Friday’s treks were in clear weather, but just as cold. And the hikers returned with red cheeks upon their smiling faces!
photo credit: Jody Phillips
Jennie Lusk of Wild Asaph Outfitters, along with the rest of the Asaph Trail Club and some charismatic leaders from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), provided many varied choices of hikes all 3 days. Many hikes filled up anyway!
photo credit: Rob Altenburg, KTA Board Member
On Saturday after the hikes returned safe and snow-covered, the staff at the Penn Wells Hotel had a fire in the massive fireplace heating the lounge area near the lobby. Some rested and visited there until it was time for dinner.
photo credit: Jody Phillips
This year, the Saturday Banquet was moved to the Coolidge Theatre at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts, a very special new space in downtown Wellsboro.
photo credit: Jody Phillips
Chef James from Penn Wells provided a great feast for all to warm our bellies after a day in the snow. Hikers from all walks of life filled the tables, and the conversation was lively. We had a great mix of folks, with over a hundred at the dinner and even more at the evening program afterward.
Author Mike Bleech shared stories from his decades on the trails in Pennsylvania, and DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn gave a rousing speech about her experience as a part of KTA, the importance of this great organization, and what the future holds for her department in the coming years.
photo credits: Curt Weinhold
Many returned to Penn Wells on Sunday morning for their famous brunch; then they set off on one last hike. The town was quieter, and conversations over waffles and eggs were more lively and engaged as new friends and old friends prepared to say farewell and head home.
photo credit: Jody Phillips
Thank you to everyone who made it for your support of KTA and having a great weekend to boot! Hope to see you all next time.