Fort Pulaski Kicks Off National Parks Centennial Series With Special Rails to Trails Hike

Date: January 11, 2016
Contact: Joel cadoff, [phone] X1208

SAVANNAH –On August 25, 2016 the National Park Service will be celebrating its 100th birthday! The centennial will kick off a second century of stewardship of America's national parks by engaging communities through recreation, conservation, and historic preservation programs. Throughout the year, parks all over the country will be hosting events to help you Find Your Park. We invite you to come and discover the national park right in your own backyard!

Beginning in January, Fort Pulaski National Monument will host a special Centennial Series on the third Sunday of each month. This series encourages members of the local community to come out and be active in the park. Each event in the series will be designed for beginners to learn new skills guided by a ranger or volunteer to inspire lifelong love of the outdoors and an active, healthy lifestyle. These events will include activities such as guided walks, hikes, biking, and kayak tours inside the park. 

The kickoff event will center on a 6-mile guided hike of the Rails to Trails path that meanders alongside Hwy 80 through the near-pristine salt marsh environment of McQueen's Island. Visitors are invited to join rangers on this out and back trail (6 miles), punctuated by lunch at the halfway point. This hike is appropriate for visitors of all ages and families are encouraged to participate –however, pets are not permitted. This will be a great opportunity for birding, photography, participating in a service clean up activity, and learning more about the cultural and natural environments of Fort Pulaski National Monument. 

Visitors are asked to meet rangers in the grassy parking area near the park entrance station at 9:30AM on Sunday, January 17, 2016. The hike will last approximately 6 hours. All attendees should come prepared! 

What to Bring: 

• Clothes appropriate for the weather 
• Close-toed shoes that can get muddy
• Plenty of water 
• Snacks and lunch 

Any necessary medications, such as an Epi-pen for allergic reactions 

Optional Items: 

• Binoculars 
• Camera 
• Bug spray and sunscreen 
• Hat or bandana 

 Please remember that dogs are not allowed on the trail. 

For more information on this or other Centennial Series programs, call [phone] or visit us online at www.nps.gov/fopu. You can also follow the park on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FortPulaskiNPS or like the official Fort Pulaski National Monument Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FortPulaskiNPS. Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah. 

–NPS –