Things To Do On The Trail

So you may be wondering, "What is there to do in Whites Woods?" While it may seem that it offers few activities, that is very far from the truth! Of course, you can hike in the woods or just walk along the paths, but that is not all. Here I've composed a short list of some of the things that you can do, and a brief description of each.

1. Geocaching
Geocaching is almost like a treasure hunt using GPS coordinates. If you have a smart phone, you can download an app which will give you directions and hints to find the 'cache'. There is generally a pace where you can sign your initials, letting people know you were there. Sometimes, there is even a 'treasure'. But don't take anything without leaving something behind for the next person! Here is a link to the geocaching site where you can find more information click

2. Bird Watching
Grab a pair of binoculars and set off to discover the diverse wildlife of a deciduous Pennsylvanian forest. While they're easy to hear, they're not always so easy to see in action! It may take some time and willingness to sit still, but taking time to enjoy the birds is well worth it! If you're curious as to what you may hear on the trails, this website has the sounds of many birds native to the area!

3. Frisbee Golf
This is one of my personal favorites. There is a frisbee golf course in the adjacent Co-op park. While not technically in Whites Woods, the paths between Whites Woods and the Co-op are interconnected, and it's easy to get between the two. It's eighteen holes through the woods and up and down hills, so be ready to spend some time if you want to get the whole way through! Also, you will need to bring your own discs with you, or, if you're an IUP student, I believe there are discs available at the HUB that you can check out. Either way, it's tons of fun! A link to the IUP Co-op park site here

4. Picnicking
Grab your friends, a blanket and some sandwiches for a picnic! While a simple suggestion, this can be fun and adventureous!

5. Have a Photoshoot
Whites Woods is beautiful year round, but the colors in the fall are absolutely magnificent. Grab a camera and some friends, and go make some memories! It's fun to do, and you can create a photo album of the pictures you take that can be enjoyed for years to come.

6.Volunteer
Many people have volunteered for White's Woods to keep it clean and safe. Some come out to the trails and clear the path ways when wind or rain have knocked over trees or branches. Now you do not have to go to that extent, many have just picked up trash along side the trails especially when there was an issue of dumping or partying after hours. Just get a trash bag and start cleaning knowing you are getting a good work and helping your community stay beautiful.

7. And many more things...
The things I've touched on are just a few ideas of how you can use Whites Woods, but there are thousands of other ways you can enjoy spending time outdoors in the woods!


HIKING 101

There are many things one should know before venturing out into the wilderness. While this won't prepare you for wilderness survival, it will hopefully help in making your experience in White's Woods enjoyable. I do not claim to be an expert in hiking or how to go about it, but having spent much time in the woods, I have gained some experience and tips that may help you out.

First thing I'll talk about is what to wear, or more aptly, what NOT to wear.
When it comes to shoes, leave your heels at home.  Dress shoes in general are not hiker friendly.  Tennis shoes or sneakers are great, hiking boots, if you've got them, are the best.  And make sure you wear socks, you don't want blisters!
As for pants, you don't want ones that you can't move in! Depending on how serious of a hiker you are, I would suggest pants that you can easily move in, don't wear skin tight jeans! In the summer, shorts are a wonderful option, and in the fall and winter, wear pants that you could comfortably go to the gym in. This is where you need to just use your best judgement.
T-shirts will be my number one suggestion for tops. Something that you won't mind getting a little sweaty, something that you have a free range of motion in.

Secondly, you should ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS let someone know where you're going. Whether you're hiking in a group or by yourself, someone should always know where you're planning on going. While Whites Woods is pretty safe place, I go there by myself a lot of the time, it is still a good idea to tell someone in case of an emergency. Chances are that nothing will happen and everything will be fine, but on the off chance that something does, it's best that someone is aware.

Third, take water with you. Even if you plan to only go for an hour, it's a good idea to have some water with you, especially in the summer months. Hydration is important, even if you're not sweating, you're still losing water, water that your body needs to function properly. A small waterbottle should do if you're just taking a short walk, and if you had plenty to drink beforehand, it might not even be necessary, but on the offchance it is, it's best to have some handy.

Fourth, and lastly, it's a good idea to have your cellphone. This could go along with the letting someone know where you are post, but I've put it separately for different reasons. Cellphones can be used to call for help in an emergency,



We would LOVE to hear from you, let us know how you use White's Woods below!!