The following programs have been scheduled at Moraine and McConnells Mill state parks:

McConnells Mill Historic Gristmill Autumn Hours

10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays — The 19th century gristmill is the centerpiece of McConnells Mill State Park and is open Labor Day. Admission is free, donations are welcome. Interpretive tours of the historic mill, given by staff or volunteer docents, are scheduled daily at 1 and 2 p.m., or by request. Park at the Kildoo Picnic Area and hike down the stone stairs to the mill. Interpretive tours for groups may be scheduled by calling the Moraine Park office at 724-368-8811.

Shannon Run Paddle

9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 8 — Meet at Mount Zion Church and join Moraine State Park staff in exploring the Shannon Run area of Lake Arthur. Participants will learn some basic kayak tips and set off to explore the abundant wildlife and plant life of this unique inlet. Ages 12 and up, under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Kayak and gear provided, or bring your own. Life jackets required to be worn. Pre-registration required. To register, call the park office 724 368-8811.

Muddy Creek Oil Field - Living History Demonstration

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 10, Park Road, Moraine State Park — The Muddy Creek Oil Well is an award-winning restoration site of an antique oil well. Open dates are dependent on volunteer availability and weather conditions, check Moraine, McConnells Mill, Jennings Commission (3MJC) Facebook page or website to confirm.

Wetlands & Wildlife Paddle

1 to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 16, Pleasant Valley Non-Motorized Launch on the South Shore of Moraine State Park — Come paddle with us to learn all about wetlands and the wildlife that call wetlands their home. Ages 12 and up, under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Kayak and gear provided, or bring your own. Life jackets required to be worn. Pre-registration required. To register, call the park office 724 368-8811.

Slippery Rock Gorge Trail Hike

8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 21 , Hells Hollow Parking Lot – McConnells Mills State Park. Join park staff and members of the North Country Trail Association on a 6.5-mile guided hike through the Slippery Rock Gorge to help celebrate North Country National Scenic Trail Day on the nation’s longest trail. This hike is considered a more difficult hike, so hikers should be in good physical shape and be prepared to traverse steep, rocky and uneven terrain. Bring a lunch, plenty of water and trail snacks to keep your energy up and spirits high on this challenging hike. Pre-registration is required. To register, call the park office at 724-368-8811. Program will be limited to 12 participants.

Stargazing

8:30 to 10:30 pm. Sept. 23 Lakeview Beach Area, Pavilion 4 on the North Shore of Moraine State Park — Spend an evening in the park gazing up at the night sky. Learn some simple tools and skills that your entire family can use to enjoy stargazing. Bring a chair or blanket and binoculars, if you have them. Dress for the weather.

McConnells Mill Heritage Festival

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 24, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 25, Kildoo Picnic Area & Gristmill at McConnells Mill State Park — History comes alive at the 30th Annual McConnells Mill Heritage Festival, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Portersville-Prospect. Tour the mill with its original machinery, visit a Civil War encampment, participate in art and craft demonstrations, and enjoy live music. Artists and craftspeople from the local area demonstrate their skills and have their wares for sale. Admission and parking are free.

Project WILD Educator Workshop

8:30 a.m. to 2:30 pm. Oct. 15, Region 2 Conference Room (528 Prospect Exit off Route 422), 195 Park Road, Prospect — Project WILD is a hands-on, wildlife-focused conservation education curriculum designed for educators working with students from kindergarten through 12th grade. This workshop is open to all educators, from formal teachers to naturalists, Scout leaders and others. Registration is required. For more information or to register, contact Environmental Education Specialist Mike Shaffer at mishaffer@pa.gov, or call 724-368-8811.