THE REC 

North Tonawanda Youth Center

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K-6 Grade Programs

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Junior Hikers Club

TAKE A HIKE


  • For Boys and Girls 
  • Grades 5 - 8 
  • NT Residents only
  • Saturdays (Various dates)
  • $10 a Hike
  • Limited spots available
  • See schedule below for dates       and destinations
  • We leave from 500 Wheatfield       St. in NT


The NT Recreation Department is thrilled to be taking your kids on some fun adventures around WNY. We'll take 5 kids per trip and do all the driving and trail guiding. Michelle Bernas, Youth Program Coordinator and experienced hiker will be hosting these trips herself. 

 

We’ll be hiking through the fall and into the winter. As long as the weather is tame we’ll be out enjoying nature.

 

Each child should have their own water bottle and a small backpack for carrying essentials. (Check online for details)

 

Proper dress is required. There's a chance of getting wet so a change of socks and shoes for the ride home is highly recommended.

 




Picture it....

The warm sunshine on your face, the sound of the wind rushing through the trees overhead, and the soft earthy feel of the trail under your boots. Not only are these experiences enjoyable to have, but they’re good for you, too.

Hiking is proven to have many health benefits, ranging from physical exercise you get when out on the trail, to emotional or mental relief that comes from being in nature.

Physical Exercise

Hiking is one of the best ways to get exercise. No matter what type of trail you find yourself on, hiking is a great whole-body workout—from head to toe and everything in between.

Check out all of these physical benefits of hiking:

  • Building stronger muscles and bones
  • Improving your sense of balance
  • Improving your heart health
  • Decreasing the risk of certain respiratory problems

Whether you find yourself scrambling up a steep incline or walking on a winding dirt path, hiking in our national parks is the perfect opportunity to get a work out!



Mental Health

Being in nature can boost your mood and improve mental health. Spending quality time in the great outdoors reduces stress, calms anxiety, and can lead to a lower risk of depression, according to a study done by researchers at Stanford University. In addition to having mental health benefits, being outdoors opens up your senses to your surroundings and improves your sensory perception. Taking in the sights, smells, and feelings of nature has so many health benefits it can even be prescribed by a doctor.


Relational Health

You don’t have to go it alone next time you lace up your hiking boots. Grab a friend, neighbor, or family member for more fun on the trail. Hiking with a partner, or even in a group, can improve the strength and health of your relationships. Because hiking ranges in difficulty from an extremely challenging climb to a casual way of spending time outside, it’s a great way to strengthen the friendships or bonds you have with your companions. Whether it’s with a younger sibling, neighborhood friend, or even a grandparent, hiking a trail together can bring you closer and help build a healthy relationship.


TAKE A HIKE


Date & Destinations

ROYALTINE RAVINE







REINSTEIN WOODS





HUNTERS CREEK PARK





DEVIL'S HOLE & WHIRLPOOL ST PARK