Life certainly can put us through the wringer sometimes, can’t it? And, no matter how much we crave quiet, stress-free moments, sometimes we just can’t escape the craziness. Luckily, we live in an area that’s chock-full of spots where we can escape, even if for just a few hours, and embrace the tranquility of nature and local wildlife. So, explore this park near Pittsburgh that features winding trails, a natural amphitheater, a children’s garden, and a historic barn.

Slip on your comfiest shoes for your journey at the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, set on 50 lush acres of Saint Vincent College.

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Inspired by Palmer, the wife of famed golfer Arnold, the nature reserve hosts countless programs geared toward visitors of all ages — from preschool to adults.

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But, even if you don’t want to attend a formal program, you can just stroll along the trails that will lead you past colorful meadows, a pond, and…

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…the historic Lochry Blockhouse (pictured below). The blockhouse, founded in the 1700s, welcomes visitors for guided tours.

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Of course, a variety of animals also call the nature reserve home. Admire the birds eating at the bird feeders along the trails.

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Keep an eye out for the ducks, leopard frogs, and red worms.

Facebook/Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve at Saint Vincent College

Stop by the Environmental Learning Barn to meet Stella the Holland Lop rabbit. And, don’t forget to say hello to Jasper and Jasmine, the resident box turtles.

Facebook/Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve at Saint Vincent College

Then, join one of the many programs and events held throughout the year. On August 11, 2018, for example, the nature reserve will host its 2nd Annual Butterfly Release from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Facebook/Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve at Saint Vincent College A family-friendly event, the butterfly release features children’s activities, garden walks, and vendors. Butterflies will be released at noon and at 2 p.m.

So, plan your visit to the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Or, explore the trails daily from dawn to dusk.

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Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve is located at 744 Walzer Way, Latrobe, PA 15650.

Facebook/Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve at Saint Vincent College Learn more about the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve by clicking here for the official website. Or, go here for Facebook.

Have you explored this tranquil park near Pittsburgh yet? If so, what did you like most about it? Let us know in the comments below! Then, click here to read about a nature reserve near Pittsburgh that will lead you along wooden paths and across footbridges.

Facebook/Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve at Saint Vincent College

A family-friendly event, the butterfly release features children’s activities, garden walks, and vendors. Butterflies will be released at noon and at 2 p.m.

Learn more about the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve by clicking here for the official website. Or, go here for Facebook.

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Address: 744 Walzer Way, Latrobe, PA 15650