View meteor shower at observatory
Public viewing takes place at the Robert Ferguson Observatory in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park on Nov. 7.Solar viewing runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Solar telescopes will be set up in order to safely look at and listen to the sun. There is no charge, but there is a Sugarloaf parking fee. An evening star party starts at 6 p.m. The three main telescopes will be open for viewing, and docents will be on hand to answer any questions. Cost is $3 for anyone 18 and over, plus the parking fee.
On Tuesday, Nov. 17, there will be another star party beginning at 8 p.m., with meteor observing after 11:30 p.m. The Leonid meteor shower happens every year at this time, as the earth moves through space and passes through debris from the comet Leonid. A strong meteor showing is predicted.
For information, go to www.rfo.org.
Yoga hike
What better way to enjoy your yoga practice than out in the beautiful setting of Sugarloaf, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of trees rustling, birds chirping and the peaceful, strong energy of Bald Mountain.All levels and ages are welcome to join in a yoga hike on Nov. 7, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the park. Susan Topf’s yoga hike balances a mix of hiking and gentle yoga postures, breath work and guided meditation. No mat necessary. Wear weather appropriate clothing to feel comfortable in an outdoor setting.
The group will most likely be hiking the two-mile Meadow/Hillside Loop with yoga stops in secluded glades, hilltop vistas and creek side settings.
Planet Walk
Bring your family out to Sugarloaf on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, for a 4.7-mile hike (with a 700-foot climb) and explore the solar system condensed into the boundaries of the park. The hike lasts from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Most people know that the planets orbit the Sun, but it is difficult to visualize just how small the planets are compared to the immensity of the Sun. It is equally difficult to imagine the vast empty spaces between the planets. The park’s Planet Walk takes you by scale models of the planets in the solar system, shrunk more than 2 billion times. Hikers should meet at the white barn near the observatory.
There is a parking fee.