ParkPalooza--Sept 12-13

If you haven't found anything else you'd like to do this weekend (which would be amazing) and think you could use a little time outside, rockwall climbing, reel casting, wildlife encounters, biking and kids’ crafts are just a few of the hands-on activities planned for ParkPalooza 2009 on the grounds of the Gateway Arch.

Created and hosted by the National Park Service, in collaboration with its partners Jefferson National Parks Association and Metro, this free, interactive event is designed to celebrate the fun, education and recreation offered at America’s national, state and local parks across the country.

On Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, ParkPalooza will feature 10 interactive stations representing both natural and cultural parks on the Arch grounds, and will introduce visitors to the themes and activities found in parks and public lands across the country, including:

Lost Worlds – hands-on archeology activities
Into the Woods – map and compass skills, GPS and geo-caching
The Great Outdoors – camping and backpacking skills, giant river aquarium, reel casting and fitness
Float Your Boat – water safety and conservation
Rock Climbing – climbing skills and safety on simulated rock walls
Mississippi River Trail – recreational enjoyment, conservation and fitness opportunities along the Mississippi River Trail, including a 40-foot-long floor map for visitors to “walk” the trail, and historic New Orleans jazz performances
People Powered – fitness, active living and recreation along Mississippi River Trail, including bike courses
Past Meets Present – 19th century folk-life and hands-on activities
Nature Zone – wildlife encounters and activities
Ranger Station– entrance stations with event information and more

All events are free but food and refreshments, as well as ParkPalooza-related merchandise, will be available for purchase.

Thanks, Mallory!