Last updated: January 13, 2024
Thing to Do
Winter Programs
NPS/Horrocks
Although winter is a time for rest and hibernation, that doesn't mean you have to stop learning! Check out these awesome winter programs being offered in the Blackstone Valley. From birding, to hiking, to geology, and more, there is plenty to see and do in the Blackstone River Valley over the winter months.
RESCHEDULED TO February 3, 2024
January 13, 2024
Winter Photography Walk at the Blackstone Gorge
County St, Blackstone, MA 01504
10:00 AM start time
60 minutes
Please note: Due to inclement weather and river flooding, this program was rescheduled to Saturday, February 3, 2024.
Enjoy a walk at the Blackstone Gorge and learn how to take great photographs in wintertime. This short hike will be led by a park ranger and a photographer in the Volunteers-in-Parks program.
Bring water and come dressed for the weather.
AT CAPACITY: January 27, 2024
Cumberlandite and Elder Ballou Cemetery Tour
Elder Ballou Meeting House Road, Cumberland, RI
10:00 AM; 12:00 PM; 2:00 PM
60 minute program offered three times
Volunteer Mark Dennen will be showing us this unique rock outcropping from a geological lens while Park Ranger Allison Horrocks introduces us to the Ballou Cemetery and talks about Cumberlandite from a historical lens. We will be meeting at the Elder Ballou Cemetery in Cumberland and walking to the Cumberlandite Site, the only outcropping of Cumberlandite.
This program will be approximately 1 mile of walking on uneven terrain.
The capacity of this site is limited and although the event is free, YOU MUST REGISTER in advance. Please select a ticket for every member of your party. Get your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cumberlandite-and-elder-ballou-cemetery-tour-tickets-769626312017?aff=oddtdtcreator. Please also note that parking is limited at this venue. Use caution when parking along the street.
February 10, 2024 Superb Owl Weekend Birding Hike
Blackstone River State Park
1075 Lower River Rd., Lincoln, RI
10:00 AM start time
60-75 minutes
Even in the quietest months of winter, there is still a flurry of activity in nature. Take a walk with a local birder and a park ranger to explore Blackstone River State Park. Meet in front of the kiosk next to the Ashton Viaduct. Field guides, binoculars, and Junior Birder books will be available.
This program is offered in partnership with Providence Parks Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnership and RI Department of Environmental Management.
February 24, 2024
Maple Sugar Days Special Event River Bend Farm Visitor Center
Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park
287 Oak St., Uxbridge, MA
How sweet it is! Learn about the process of making maple sugar at this annual event hosted at River Bend Farm. Rangers will be onsite to talk about the history of maple sugaring and the ways that climate change is impacting this local industry.
During this event, participants can see a live demonstration of tree tapping.
March 9, 2024
Hopedale Women’s History Walk
Meet at the Little Red Shop
12 Hopedale St, Hopedale, MA 01747
10:00 AM start time
60 minutes
This Women’s History Month, explore Hopedale with us! Meet in front of the Little Red Shop Museum, located at 12 Hopedale St., Hopedale, MA. We will walk to the entrance of the Parklands together. Parking is available on Hopedale Street.
Hopedale began as a radical commune dedicated to the idea of women’s equality. Learn about changes in Hopedale over time during this 60 minute walk. The Hopedale Parklands includes a number of small trails with views of the Hopedale Pond.
Details
Activity
Guided Tours
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
There are differing levels of physical accessibility for these programs. Please reach out to Park Ranger Allison Horrocks if you have any questions in regards to program accessibility.