Animal Adventures in the Poconos With Your Grandchild

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

Plan ahead.

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Please Note:

The itinerary for this program is different on certain dates.

Age 8 - 12

	ROOMING OPTION PRICING The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
DATES
Jun 18 - Jun 23, 2023 Per Adult 849 Per Child 499 Select Itinerary Note This program week is for children ages 8-12. + More
Jun 18 - Jun 23, 2023	-	849 / Adult 499 / Child	1,299 / Adult 499 / Child	SOLD OUT
Itinerary Note This program week is for children ages 8-12. + More
Jul 9 - Jul 14, 2023 Per Adult 849 Per Child 499 Select Itinerary Note This program week is for children ages 8-12. + More
Jul 9 - Jul 14, 2023	-	849 / Adult 499 / Child	1,299 / Adult 499 / Child	SOLD OUT
Itinerary Note This program week is for children ages 8-12. + More

Age 5 - 9

	ROOMING OPTION PRICING The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
DATES
Jun 25 - Jun 30, 2023 Per Adult 849 Per Child 499 Select Itinerary Note This program week is for children ages 5-9. + More
Jun 25 - Jun 30, 2023	-	849 / Adult 499 / Child	1,299 / Adult 499 / Child	Limited Space
Itinerary Note This program week is for children ages 5-9. + More

Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Program Terms & Conditions

Animal Adventures in the Poconos With Your Grandchild

Program No. 23650RJ Deposit at Enrollment: 100 Final payment due: 59 days before departure date

Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Note: These fees apply to at least one date of this program, but may vary by date.

If you transfer or cancel:

fee will be applied if you do not call Road Scholar Participant Services at least one business day prior to the program start date.

Transfer Fee: 100 % of order total

Cancel Fee: 100 % of order total

less than 14 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 50 % of order total

Cancel Fee: 50 % of order total

55 to 14 days prior to program start date

Cancel Fee: $200.00

119 to 56 days prior to program start date

Cancel Fee: $100.00

up to 120 days prior to program start date

Cancel Fee: $50.00

up to 14 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: $0.00

If you transfer or cancel:	Transfer Fee:	Cancel Fee:
fee will be applied if you do not call road scholar participant services at least one business day prior to the program start date.	100 % of order total	100 % of order total
less than 14 days prior to program start date	50 % of order total	50 % of order total
55 to 14 days prior to program start date		$200.00
119 to 56 days prior to program start date		$100.00
up to 120 days prior to program start date		$50.00
up to 14 days prior to program start date	$0.00

COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

For the greatest peace of mind and protection, we require all Road Scholar participants to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including having received all recommended boosters if eligible.

Road Scholar Program Terms and Conditions

How to Enroll in a Program

Call Us or Enroll Online To enroll

Please call us toll free at (877) 426-8056, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET. You may also enroll online at www.roadscholar.org. To reserve space on a program, Road Scholar requires a deposit followed by final payment.

Road Scholar is Not-For-Profit

Road Scholar is a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that incurs over $5 million annually on credit card fees. Please help us reduce this cost by paying for your program with a check. Please consider our paperless check option when paying on the phone or over the Internet. Our Advisors are happy to explain this payment option to you.

Tax-Deductible Donations

As a not-for-profit organization, we appreciate and rely on charitable donations to help us develop and maintain high-quality educational programs with exceptional value. Donations from U.S. citizens are tax-deductible as provided by law. As Road Scholar is not a registered charity in Canada, donations are not tax deductible for Canadian citizens.

Financial Assistance

Road Scholar offers two kinds of assistance: Scholarships, for those with desire but not the financial means to participate in our U.S.- or Canada-based learning adventures; and Caregiver Grants, designed to provide a unique respite opportunity for unpaid family caregivers to participate in a U.S.- or Canada-based Road Scholar program. Visit www.roadscholar.org/about/financial-assistance/scholarships, email us at scholarships@roadscholar.org, or call us toll free at (877) 426-8056.

General Program Information

Activity Level Ratings

Each Road Scholar program is assigned an Activity Level rating, ranging from Easy Going to Challenging, which are noted on program webpages. Try our Advanced Search tool to find programs that match your activity level. If you have special needs, or need a little extra help in finding the right program for your level of fitness and ambition, please call us and we’ll work to find options for you.

Disabilities and Special Needs

Road Scholar is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to participants with special needs and disabilities. If you have special needs requiring accommodation, please communicate them to Road Scholar at the time of enrollment. We will discuss your request with you and make every effort to accommodate you.

Service Learning

Our Service Learning programs bring participants together to work as a team to serve worthy projects. Road Scholar and sponsoring service institutions are not-for-profit organizations and are tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The program price may qualify as a tax-deductible gift. However, since individual circumstances vary, we suggest participants contact their tax advisors.

Included Emergency Assistance and Medical Evacuation Insurance

Road Scholar’s continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified in our Road Scholar Assurance Plan. Whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our programs overseas, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under the Road Scholar Assurance Plan. This plan is purchased by Road Scholar on behalf of every participant. The plan provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation. This plan includes insurance benefits underwritten by Arch Insurance Company and emergency assistance services provided by LiveTravel Assist. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/included-insurance/

Travel Health

In addition to maintaining necessary vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccination, Road Scholar recommends all participants consult with their physician, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of State regarding their health condition and any recommendations specific to the destinations they will visit or transit well before departure. While Road Scholar does its best to provide pertinent information regarding international health requirements and travel health precautions for travel abroad, please remember we are not health experts and can only share with you the recommendations made by the CDC and the US Department of State. It It is therefore your responsibility to consult with your physician and/or contact the CDC for health information specific to your travel destination. Your physician will be able to assess your overall health and fitness, provide information and guidance on health risks you may encounter while traveling, medication you may need to take, and other precautions for the prevention of injury and illness during your program.

Here is guidance from the Centers for Disease Control on how to avoid contracting and spreading an illness.

Only travel if you are healthy. Stay home if you are sick, displaying any symptoms of potential sickness.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For those looking for additional resources on this topic, we recommend trusted sources such as your physician, the US Department of State, CDC, and WHO.

U.S. Department of State: www.travel.state.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/

Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. To learn more about Road Scholar’s commitment to our participants’ well-being and the steps you can take to keep yourself healthy when traveling, please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/general-health-safety/

Please also be sure to review our Travel Updates webpage for the latest travel information, steps we are taking to keep your program experience as safe as possible, as well as helpful information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there. www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/travel-updates/

Domestic Travel Arrangements

Programs in the United States and Canada require independent arrivals and departures unless otherwise stated, meaning that you must make your own travel arrangements to and from the program site. If you are flying to your program, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 60 days prior to your program in the United States or Canada to purchase airfare.

International Travel Arrangements

Road Scholar Can Help Arrange Your International Airfare

Almost all of our international programs can be purchased with airfare arranged by Road Scholar. We have negotiated special international rates with major airlines. A list of departure cities can be found by visiting our website or calling to speak with one of our experienced Advisors. As an added benefit, guaranteed airport transfers on the program’s published start and end date are included with your international air travel when arranged through Road Scholar. If your preferred airport is not listed, or you would like to travel on a different day, travel in premium or business class, specify the airline or routing, or travel independently before or after our program, we are happy to customize and create a personalized air travel itinerary to meet your needs. Select the “Custom Flight Arrangements” option and then the airport you want, or discuss your flight preferences with one of our expert air Travel Advisors.

Arranging Your Own International Airfare

If you choose to make your own international air travel arrangements, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 90 days prior to your International program to purchase airfare,

Road Scholar Optional Trip Protection with “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

The optional Road Scholar Trip Protection Plan helps protect your investment if you must cancel or interrupt your program for specified, covered reasons, such as illness or injury to you, your traveling companion or an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion. Plus, if you need to cancel your program for any reason not covered by insurance, you will receive a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar for the full amount of the Road Scholar cancellation fee. The plan also provides benefits if you are delayed getting to or returning home from your program and protects your investment should you have an emergency during your program that causes you to miss program days or return home earlier than expected. Your airfare, whether purchased through Road Scholar or independently, is covered at no additional cost — an exceptional benefit and value offered exclusively to Road Scholar participants. You will receive information about this optional travel insurance plan when you enroll in a program. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/protection-plan.

Additional Program Information

Our goal is to make sure our participants have the most enjoyable and rewarding program experience possible. Whether you are considering one of Road Scholar’s many educational adventures or are currently enrolled in a program, we highly recommend you review the additional program information available in the Practical Information section on our website. The section includes a wide range of topics and information -- everything from how to choose the perfect program to traveling solo to insurance. Please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information, or call us if you have specific questions. After you enroll in a program, please be sure to carefully read all pre-program communications and your Program preparatory materials, as they provide important information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there.

Program Policies

Deposit, Transfer and Cancellation Policy

Road Scholar requires deposits for all its programs, and charges fees if you transfer or cancel your enrollment. Deposits and fees vary between programs. Please refer to the Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy on program webpages for specific deposit amounts, and transfer and cancellation fee schedules.

About Program Details and Itineraries

We make every effort to operate our programs as advertised. The information on our website is updated regularly, and reflects the most up to date information. We are committed to providing participants with final program details no later than three weeks before the start of land programs within the United States, four weeks for programs International and Afloat programs. and one week for online programs. However, itineraries or other aspects of a program may change due to situations beyond the control. If this happens we will do our best to notify you of the change prior to arriving on your program. We ask you to pack a little extra patience and flexibility, just in case there are last-minute changes to your program.

If Road Scholar Cancels or Interrupts a Program

Road Scholar reserves the right to cancel programs prior to departure, terminate a program early, and to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action. Additionally, due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances, Road Scholar must occasionally cancel or change the dates of a program. When that occurs we will notify you as far in advance as possible and will assist you in transferring your enrollment to another program or refunding your full Road Scholar program payment. If you have made transportation arrangements, such as an airline ticket purchase, Road Scholar will give you a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar to help cover the cost of transferring your travel arrangements for use on a replacement program. The maximum value of the credit will be $300 and documentation of your paid fees is required before issuance of the credit.

Accuracy of Information

While every effort is made to provide accurate information on our website and in our catalogs, Road Scholar is not responsible for typographical errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may relate to program descriptions, pricing, and availability. Road Scholar reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may appear in our publications, and to change or update information at any time without prior notice. If you discover an error on our website or catalog, please let us know.

Program Pricing

As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities at a remarkable value. We do everything in our power to ensure that the published program price is the price you pay. On occasion, costs we can’t anticipate and that are beyond our control arise and may be passed along to you. If this occurs, we will let you know as soon as possible.

Terms and Conditions

Program Selection
We want every participant to have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding program experience. The travel and activities of Road Scholar programs require participants to be in good general health and capable of performing all program activities as described by the program description and its corresponding Activity Level. As a group travel experience, participants must be capable of caring for themselves during the program and agree not to impede the progress of the program or interfere with the enjoyment of other participants. Participants are required to disclose known medical and physical conditions that may interfere with their safety and well being or the safety and well being of others during this program. Road Scholar may limit or terminate the participation in the program at the participant’s expense and without refund any participants who fail to disclose all medical information or do not honestly assess their physical capabilities in advance. With this information in mind, carefully consider the travel and program demands as described on the Road Scholar website, and consult with your physician about your travel plans. If after enrolling you have second thoughts about the program you chose, please call us and we will be happy to assist you in finding a program better suited to your abilities.

Responsibility

Road Scholar’s responsibility is limited. Road Scholar organizes, promotes, and sells educational programs consisting of certain travel services, including land, air, and water transportation, excursions, and cruise/barge/hotel accommodations that Road Scholar purchases or reserves from various suppliers (collectively, “Suppliers”). Road Scholar neither owns nor operates any of these Suppliers; they are independent contractors and are not Road Scholar’s agents. Therefore, Road Scholar is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any Supplier or any other third party. You agree that you will look to such Suppliers, and not to Road Scholar or its agents, for any accident, injury, property damage, or personal loss you may suffer. Without limitation, Road Scholar is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to person or property, death, delay, or inconvenience in connection with the provision of, or failure to provide, any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from — but not limited to — acts of God or force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or the failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time, or for any other cause beyond the direct control of Road Scholar.

Safety & Risks

Certain risks — from natural disasters to accidents, outbreaks of illness, crime, insect-borne and other infectious diseases, environmental risks to health, terrorism and other unforeseen events — are inherent in travel. While such occurrences are beyond our control, we make substantial efforts to be prepared for such possibilities. Participants are encouraged to review the safety and travel information provided by the U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to learn about current security issues, travel advisories and warnings, recent embassy notices, country-specific health information, health risks you may encounter while traveling, precautions for the prevention of illness, disease and general health issues during your program and other helpful destination-specific information. By enrolling in a program, you agree to assume responsibility for your own health, safety, and welfare, and acknowledge that Road Scholar cannot guarantee your safety or health at any time.

Admission & Participation Policy

The granting or denial of admission to a program is within the sole discretion of Road Scholar. Road Scholar reserves the right to revoke admission or terminate or limit participation at any time if Road Scholar reasonably determines a participant’s condition, behavior or actions are inappropriate or disruptive, or adversely affect the participant’s health or safety, or the health, safety or enjoyment of other participants. Road Scholar reserves the right to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s sole opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action.

Photography and Video

Road Scholar reserves the right to take photographs, videos or audio/visual recordings during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them, whether taken by a representative of Road Scholar or by other participants, for promotional purposes. By enrolling in a Road Scholar program, participants agree to allow their images or recordings to be used for such purposes. Participants who prefer that their images or recordings not be used are asked to identify themselves to program staff and the photographer at the commencement of their program. For Road Scholar online programs, all audio or video recordings, content and materials are the property of Road Scholar. Participants are prohibited from taking screen captures, or making, copying or distributing all or part of any audio or video recordings of online programs.

Online Program Terms

If you enroll in one of Road Scholar’s online programs, you are responsible for the integrity of the device on which you will attend this online program, as well as your own high-speed internet connection. Road Scholar is not responsible for outages or interruptions in internet service. Road Scholar cannot and will not provide recordings, content or materials, or provide reimbursement of any kind, for missed portion(s) of your online program, regardless of the reason.

Seller of Travel Information

Road Scholar’s state of Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602244658. CST #2068427-40. Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35594.

Modifications to Terms and Conditions

Road Scholar reserves the right at any time to update, change, modify, or revise these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will become effective upon posting the changes, modifications or revisions to the Terms and Conditions. Accordingly, participants should review Road Scholar’s Terms and Conditions regularly prior to travel in order to ensure they are aware of any changes.

© 2023 Elderhostel. All rights reserved. The Road Scholar service marks, logos, website address and other marks are owned by Elderhostel, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring adults to learn, discover and travel.

Optional Trip Protection Plan

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

6 days

5 nights

13 meals

5B 3L 5D

1

Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation, Class

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

2

Alpaca Farm, Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Movie Night

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

3

Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm & Concert

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

4

AT Naturalist Walk, Free Time, Evening NPS Lecture

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

5

Environmental Center, Pond Exploration, Farewell Dinner

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

6

Program Concludes

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

The mountains, lakes and forests of the Poconos of Pennsylvania are home to a wealth of wildlife, from wolves and beavers to eagles and hawks. Gather your animal-loving grandchild and head to your mountain retreat for a week-long animal adventure. Find out how rehabilitation centers and preserves in the area help protect and care for the wildlife that live in the Poconos, and discover animal habitats like a beaver lodge, a bat cave and an eagle’s nest. Observe the ecosystem in person on a nature hike, and visit a local farm to meet and touch domesticated animals like Gunther and Wilhelm (the workhorses) and Janie the mule.

Activity Level

On Your Feet

Walking up to three miles on mostly flat, but sometimes rocky, terrain.

Small Group

Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

Visit the Lakota Wolf Preserve to learn about wolf behavior as you observe four packs of wolves playing (and maybe even howling) around you.
Go on a three-mile scenic nature hike with a biology professor along the Appalachian Trail as you learn about edible vegetation, geology, wildlife and plants.
Wake up with an optional morning stretch each day, and enjoy evening activities like s’more-making by the fire, live music and movies.

General Notes

The Retreat Difference: This unique, often basic and no-frills experience at a Road Scholar Retreat includes opportunities for early morning exercise, interaction with the local community for insight into local life, an authentic farm-to-table or locally sourced meal, a live performance or event, and a value-priced single room.

Featured Expert

All Experts

Rick Koval

Rick Koval is a longtime resident of Luzerne County and a professional naturalist, consultant, wildlife photographer and award-winning outdoor writer. He was the director of land conservation for the North Branch Land Trust before becoming the head naturalist for Skytop Lodge in the Poconos. Rick is a local television personality as a naturalist on the popular show, “Pennsylvania Outdoor Life.” He is currently writing a book on the native orchids of the Poconos.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Rick Koval View biography

Rick Koval is a longtime resident of Luzerne County and a professional naturalist, consultant, wildlife photographer and award-winning outdoor writer. He was the director of land conservation for the North Branch Land Trust before becoming the head naturalist for Skytop Lodge in the Poconos. Rick is a local television personality as a naturalist on the popular show, “Pennsylvania Outdoor Life.” He is currently writing a book on the native orchids of the Poconos.

Midge McClosky View biography

Midge McClosky is the Cultural Program Director for the Shawnee Institute, Executive Director of the Shawnee Playhouse, and the Artistic Director of the Worthington Players. Before moving to Shawnee, Midge worked as a professional actress, singer, and dancer performing musical theatre in 49 of the 50 states. Her extensive credits cross over into film, television, commercials, voice-overs, and live industrials. She and Chris, her husband of more than 20 years, have two active boys, ages 13 and 14.

Suggested Reading List (3 books)

Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop

You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

Search for a Title

The Illustrated Compendium of Amazing Animal Facts

by Maja Säfström

New York Times bestseller • An artfully playful collection of unexpected and remarkable facts about animals, illustrated by Swedish artist Maja Säfström. Did you know that an octopus has three hearts? Or that ostriches can't walk backward? Or that a group of owls is called a parliament, or that they have three eyelids? Sea otters hold hands in their sleep, bees never sleep, and penguins laugh when they're tickled! This charming compendium contains over 100 pages of fascinating facts about the animal kingdom illustrated with whimsical detail.

The Wise Animal Handbook Pennsylvania

by Kate B. Jerome

Read-aloud time is about to get a lot more fun! The Pennsylvania Wise Animal Handbook offers laugh-out-loud animal kingdom advice for kids of every age! Engaging animal photos entertain while charming read-aloud rhymes help jump-start conversations about practical life solutions. The Read Together/Do Together? experience continues with pull out coloring pages in the back of the book featuring fun facts about special Keystone State animals including the firefly and Great Dane. Enjoy the opportunity to share your own practical wisdom with your favorite little one as you read-aloud... and laugh-aloud....again and again.

Wildlife of Pennsylvania: and the Northeast

by Charles Fergus

Natural history narratives for more than 300 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians found in Pennsylvania and throughout the northeastern United States-written in an engaging, straightforward style. An invaluable addition to any nature-lover's library. Each narrative offers a species description as well as up-to-date information on habitat, breeding behavior, feeding habits, biology, migration, and current population status, as well as the author's personal observations of the animal's life in the wild. Includes game and nongame mammals, birds of prey, songbirds, waterfowl, snakes, turtles, frogs, toads, and more.

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6 days

5 nights

13 meals

5 B 3 L 5 D

DAY

1

Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation, Class

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

D

The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort

Activity note: Inn check-in begins at 4:30 p.m.

Afternoon: CHECK-IN: Hotel Room Check-in is available from 4:30 p.m. on. PROGRAM REGISTRATION: After you check in at the front desk and get settled into your room, join your fellow Road Scholars in the hospitality room to socialize until the Welcome Dinner begins. This is a Road Scholar Retreats program. Our programming at Retreat locations includes opportunities for light morning exercise, interaction with members of the local community, a farm-to-table meal, and evening entertainment. This is a Road Scholar Grandparent program. Grandparents are responsible for their grandchildren. If/when separate age group activities are conducted concurrently, program staff will supervise. Minors are never to be left unsupervised. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: At 7 p.m. we'll enjoy dinner at the Inn, where you'll have the opportunity to choose from a "American Home-style" themed buffet offering choices of salads and entrées (one of which will be child-friendly), plus vegetables, rice, potatoes, or pasta, fresh fruit, and coffee, tea (iced or hot), water, other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: ORIENTATION: After dinner the Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the program theme, the up-to-date Daily Schedule and any changes, discuss safety guidelines, emergency procedures, roles and responsibilities, and answer any questions you may have. CLASS: Next, gather for a class on animal safety to prepare us for our upcoming adventures. We’ll then have Q&A just for kids, get to know each other, and enjoy s’mores by the campfire out on the grand lawn. We’ll then settle in and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

DAY

2

Alpaca Farm, Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Movie Night

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

B,L,D

The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort

Activity note: Stretch session. Getting in/out of van. Driving 15-30 miles, approximately 1/2 hour each time. Walking up to 2 miles, mostly flat, even terrain as we explore the alpaca farm & rehabilitation center.

Breakfast: In the inn's River Room Restaurant, we’ll choose from hot and cold breakfast selections such as French toast, homemade granola, fruit, and homemade pastries plus coffee, tea, water.

Morning: After our morning stretch, we will board the vans and travel to the Pocono Creek Alpaca Farm. The 72-acre farm consists of both fields and forest and their respective eco systems. There are currently 17 alpacas residing on the farm. People are invited to visit the farm to meet the alpacas, feed them provided treats and learn about their history, use & care. The experience is outdoors, has limited walking but is entirely standing. The farm store sells items made from the alpacas’ fleece, including toys, yarns, home products and garments. It is important that visitors understand this is a working farm with livestock and should not only dress appropriately but be ready to follow instructions and respect both the property and the livestock.

Lunch: We will enjoy a boxed lunch of sandwiches and chips in the picnic area between excursions.

Afternoon: After lunch we will board the vans and travel to the Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center where we can expect to see owls, hawks, falcons or vultures, plus many species of native mammals and perhaps some reptiles with a staff member. Please note Pennsylvania state law prohibits contact with mammals and birds, but we will see how we care for the wildlife. We will then return to the inn.

Dinner: Inn buffet. Tonight’s theme is Italian cuisine!

Evening: We’ll watch a family-friendly movie with new friends and enjoy expert commentary to enhance the experience.

DAY

3

Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm & Concert

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

B,L,D

The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort

Activity note: Stretch session. Getting in/out of van. Driving 20 miles, approximately 40 minutes. Walking up to 2 miles, mostly flat, even terrain as we explore the animal shelter and farm.

Breakfast: Inn buffet.

Morning: After our morning stretch we will take a short ride to Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm. This is a unique opportunity for both children and the young-at-heart to see and touch a variety of farm animals including chickens, rabbits, goats, and pigs. We will get to know the workhorses, Gunther and Wilhelm, and meet Janie, the mule.

Lunch: We will enjoy a boxed lunch outdoors consisting of sandwiches and chips.

Afternoon: We will spend the afternoon getting our hands dirty at the farm! We will then return to the inn for dinner and entertainment this evening.

Dinner: Inn buffet. Tonight's farm-to-table meal will be presented by our executive chef.

Evening: We’ll attend a concert at Shawnee featuring local musicians. It might be anything from classical to doo-wop, bluegrass to rock and roll. Whatever the music, feeling the rhythm and hearing the notes is part of learning how to be a performer. For those who’d like a snack at their own cost after the concert, the Buckwood Café is open until 8:00 p.m. They make yummy homemade cookies, muffins, and breads.

DAY

4

AT Naturalist Walk, Free Time, Evening NPS Lecture

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

B,D

The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort

Activity note: Stretch session. Today's hike will be 3 miles and offer moderately rocky terrain, elevation gain under 500 feet, and a slower "learning" pace.

Breakfast: Inn buffet.

Morning: We will begin the day with an invigorating stretch. Led by a biology professor/naturalist, we will then set out on a 3-mile nature walk on the Appalachian Trail around Lake Lenape and into the town of Delaware Water Gap, which is a favorite stop for AT thru-hikers. On our scenic nature walk, we'll learn about edible vegetation, geology, wildlife, and exquisite plant life while observing ecosystems.

Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.

Afternoon: Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions. The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort has many offerings, such as a spa, watercraft and bicycle rentals, and productions at The Shawnee Playhouse. The concierge and Group Leader can both assist you in finalizing these plans.

Dinner: Inn buffet. Tonight’s theme is Mexican cuisine!

Evening: We’ll gather for a presentation by a National Park Service ranger from the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

DAY

5

Environmental Center, Pond Exploration, Farewell Dinner

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

B,L,D

The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort

Activity note: Stretch session. Getting in/out of van Driving 30 miles, over 1.5 hours total. Walking up to 2 miles, mostly flat, even terrain as we explore the preserve. Pond exploration at Kettle Creek!

Breakfast: Inn buffet.

Morning: After our morning stretch, we will board the vans and travel to the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and is the education partner of the National Park Service in this area. Here we will have a private guide through the Ecozone Discovery Room! Climb into a bald eagle’s nest, crawl into a bat cave, explore a beaver lodge, and dig in a fossil pit! Explore this indoor discovery room and enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability and the local environment.

Lunch: We will enjoy a picnic lunch at PEEC.

Afternoon: After lunch we will travel to the Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center. (KCEEC) Please make sure dress appropriately for the weather and for exploring outside. This should include sturdy footwear (no open toed shoes please). Kettle Creek is a Sanctuary, not a zoo; it’s a place where all things, both living and non-living, are protected in their natural habitats. The native animals are secretive and will stay away from noisy groups. If we stay relatively quiet we may see turkeys, hawks, rabbits, chipmunks, squirrels, moles, snakes, raccoons, fish, turtles, deer, salamanders or bear! We allow no collecting, only memories. After our hands on adventure, we will then return to the inn for dinner.

Dinner: At the inn, we’ll have a pre-selected, plated meal — made to order by our executive chef — featuring freshly-prepared local fare, salad, bread, and dessert, plus coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: After dinner, make sure to exchange contact information with your new friends so you can keep in touch. Prepare for check-out and departure after our closing session in the morning.

DAY

6

Program Concludes

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

B

Activity note: Inn check-out by 11:00 a.m.

Breakfast: Inn buffet.

Morning: After breakfast, the program will conclude. Checkout of rooms is by 11 a.m. We hope you have enjoyed your Road Scholar learning adventure and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!

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Protecting the Environment

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General Notes