Elderhostel
Elderhostel is the world's leading educational travel organization for adults. Each Elderhostel program is all-inclusive and includes: Lectures by Local Experts, Experienced Group Leaders, Field Trips & Excursions, and Accommodations & Meals. The following are descriptions of The Wilderness Conservancy At Mountain Lake's upcoming Elderhostel programs. Please visit www.elderhostel.org to learn more about Elderhostel, the exact dates and information about our programs and make reservations. We look forward to seeing you!
Service Learning In Appalachia: The Lost Communities Of Southwest Virginia
Join Home Corps, a community outreach program of the Service-Learning Center at Virginia Tech, for hands-on community assistance in three "Lost Communities" of Southwest Appalachia: Newport , Eggleston, and Paint Bank. Based on a study by Virginia Tech's Community Design Assistance Center, explore towns that were once bustling crossroads in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that now slumber, but attract tourists for their historical significance. Spend time helping to beautify public spaces and assist with upkeep of local museums and historical buildings. Enjoy both the rich scenic beauty of this region and the stories relating to local history and rural Appalachian traditions.
Astronomy: The Universe and Beyond
Investigate black holes, the big bang, radio astronomy, planets, and the sun, moon, and stars. A team of scientists from two Virginia universities will help unravel the mysteries of the universe. You will be exposed to cutting edge astronomy research. Use telescopes to view the sun by day, and the stars and galaxies by night (weather permitting, of course). Far removed from city lights, Mountain Lake is an ideal location for sky watching on clear nights. Join us to learn more about our fascinating universe. All levels welcome. Enjoy the beauty above from one of the most beautiful places in Virginia !
Natural History of Appalachia's Mountain Lake: A Unique "Sky Island"
Using the lush and diverse forests of the Wilderness Conservancy at Mt. Lake as our classroom, we will study the fascinating web of life in this SouthWest Virginia section of the Appalachian Mountains . Explore the unique geological and ecological history of the highest natural lake East of the Mississippi River . From continents in collision to subtle differences in microclimates, learn how the various facets of our environment - geology, biology, climate, water, and time - interact to form this ancient and magnificent setting. Enthusiastic and hands-on lectures and daily walks will energize your appreciation of the world around you.
Stories, Songs and Walks: The Appalachian Experience
Join our eclectic mix of storytellers, musicians, and poets as they share their traditional tales, folk wisdom, stories and poems that spring from the Appalachian experience, and music that moves the heart and touches the soul. Learn about yourself as you learn about the people and culture of this wondrous region - part of the world, yet still finding security through its deep roots in tradition and family. We will take daily walks through the Wilderness Conservancy at Mountain Lake to enhance our appreciation of the stories and songs of this region. See the stunning contours of this ancient landscape, enjoy the quiet solitude of its diverse forests, and sit beside its meandering streams as we study the natural history of this region.
Taking Flight: Birds and Butterflies for Everyone
Fundamentals for the beginning birder and intermediate challenges for avid avian enthusiasts make this an exciting birding experience. All levels are welcome at Mountain Lake - a regular site for the Virginia Society of Ornithology's annual conference - one of the best birding areas in Virginia. Enjoy and embrace an active week exploring sight and sound identification, learning how to read songbird habitat, predicting species presence. Develop new skills and sharpen old ones through background sessions and active field experiences. The program includes a bonus session on butterflies and butterfly gardening.