Cross Country Skiing

Sorry for the long delay of posts, life got crazy!

Anyone in Erie this time of year needs to find a hobby to get them out and enjoy the snow instead of hating it from the indoors. Embrace the weather around you and take time to learn cross country skiing. I am glad my husband took the time to talk me into this sport. I am still learning, but I've gotten better since my outings last season!

When you cross country ski you get a workout, so you're not FREEZING from the constant motion, and it's a great way to check out more Erie has to offer! We've been to Wilderness Lodge, Asbury Park and a field out in Fairview... can't remember the name of it!

I encourage you to borrow a friends ski's, go to the Lodge and rent skis, or be brave and buy a pair because you will love it. I know our dog always enjoys the trips we take out. Gives her a chance to run free in beautiful Erie as well!

Go, get out there to that beautiful white stuff that surrounds us!

Erie Sunsets

Can you believe Erie weather! One week it is 35 and snowing... 2 days later we have 55 and sun. Today was a great chance to enjoy the beach and sunset at Presque Isle. The 70 degree weather and clear skies are a perfect setting for any Erieite!
There are definitely a few more Erie Sunsets to be had at Presque Isle, so I encourage you to take advantage of this weather while you can.
While you are there, setup for a romantic evening, go find some beach glass or take the pooch out for a swim!
Whatever you do, enjoy this GEM of Erie!

Trec or Treat

What a great opportunity to check out the Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC)! The TREC will be holding a "TREC or Treat" event on Saturday, October 25th from 11AM- 4PM. This building is amazing and interesting! You must take a trip up the tower to see the incredible view from the top!

The TREC or Treat event is perfect for a family to go out and enjoy! You can wear your costumes and be entered into their contest to win prizes, which takes place at 2pm.

From 11-1 you can learn more information about those creatures that creep during the night and whether they are "spooky" or not.

If that's not enough to get you out, they are playing two movies for the family to enjoy. At 12pm Spookley (Rated G) will be playing and at 3pm The Last Mimzy (Rated PG) will play. But you must be early because while admission is FREE, it will be limited to the first 175 tickets per show.

If you want more information on this event, you can check out the TREC website at http://www.trecpi.org/events.html.

Peek n' Peak Fall Fest

YES! I love this time of year. The weather is perfect temperature- not too hot, not too cold. With the leaves changing to my favorite shades of orange, yellow and reds- that means FALL FEST!
This trip takes you outside the PA state lines and into New York. Peek n' Peak has its 21st Annual Fall Fest October 11-12 and 18-19. The festivities take place from 10am - 5pm. You'll find all kinds of things to enjoy at any age.
Peek n' Peak's Fall Fest is a chance to pick up some slightly used ski equipment at their gigantic Ski Swap. You'll find ski's, snowboards, hats, gloves, jackets, poles, boots... everything at reasonable prices!
There are an incredible amount of vendors for you to visit and pick up some crafts for your home for the holidays. If crafts aren't your thing there is a petting zoo, frisbee catching dogs, car show, and much more.
So here is another great idea to do with your friends, family, or by yourself! And best part about it all... admission to go and walk around is FREE!!

North East Wine Fest

Wine & Wheels Tour
This crazy adventure takes you on a Wine Tasting Tour of several local wineries in North East, located roughly 15 miles east of downtown Erie. Not only is this for wine lovers, but outdoors enthusiasts as well! Lake Country Bike provides guided bike rides through beautiful landscapes and sweet, grape smelling air! You can visit their website at www.lakecountrybike.com to find out more information on their guided tours; the best time to ride is September when the grapes are ready to be harvested.
Not crazy about biking? All wineries are open for tours and tastings. Try visiting www.nechamber.org for more information about the local wineries and lodging.
Wine Fest
The 27th Annual Wine fest is vast approaching (9/26-9/28) with 5 wineries in the tent this year, serving more than 40 varieties of wine. You might even try your skills as a grape stomper… don’t wear your fancy pants if you plan on participating! Best of all- the festival provides free shuttle service to the wineries and other attractions in town. Simply park free at both festival locations and then ride as often as you like on Saturday and Sunday. There can be an entrance fee, but minimal for the enjoyment you’ll have in return!
One last recommendation for your wine & wheel adventure… make sure you have a bus, limo, taxi, or designated driver if you plan on doing more than sampling!

Wintergreen Gorge

Want something to do for a couple hours on a weekend or weeknight? Now that the weather is comfortable, you should think about visiting the Wintergreen Gorge in Erie, PA. The Gorge is located on the Penn State Behrend Campus. You park behind their housing complexes off of the Bayfront Connector and hike away.

While on the hike you can venture down to the waterfall (pictured). Take a camel pack and make a lunch trip out of it! Make sure you wear some sort of water shoe/sandal so you can cross and play in the water flowing through the gorge.

Wintergreen gorge is a beautiful place to go that will take you no longer than 15-20 minutes from wherever you are in Erie. It’s nice to get out of the city life for a few minutes and enjoy some scenery.

The hike around the area is not very difficult but remember when you walk down, you will have to walk back up. This is a great hike for families, singles, couples and friends!