PHOTO PROVIDED A view at a vista at Rider Park is shown in this photo by Rider Park manager Sara Street. Rider Park is partaking in National Hiking Day on Thursday, Oct. 17.

There are numerous beautiful views and scenery throughout trails in Lycoming County and its surrounding counties. It doesn’t take a far drive to find a great trail to walk.

On Thursday, Oct. 17, that drive can be to Rider Park as the park will be partaking in National Hiking Day from 9-11 a.m. Rider Park manager Sara Street will be taking those who partake for a hike to the new vista at the park.

National Hiking Day is an annual observance that helps raise awareness regarding the importance of hiking outdoors and encouraging people to embrace the joys of hiking. The hike will be roughly 2.5 to 3 miles.

Anyone who wants to partake is encouraged to register either by phone (570-321-1500) or email (AmyP@FCFPartnership.org).

“This is a new one for me,” Street noted. “The national hiking day is to go outside and hike your local trails to just gain an appreciation for where you ive and what you have where you are. I’m trying to raise awareness that Rider Park is a gem and well-kept secret.”

National hiking Day also provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with nature, explore scenic trails, and reap the numerous physical and mental health benefits that hiking has to offer.

Street likes to gauge what she does based on the audience that shows up. She noted the Katy Jane Trail, a moderate 2.9-mile loop which leads to two vista points.