PRE-CONFERENCE FIELD TRIPS Architectural Wonders — Frank Lloyd Wright’s and Kentuck Knob (8:00 AM – 3:45 PM) Marvel at two Frank Lloyd Wright architectural masterpieces in one trip, Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob. Both houses exemplify Wright’s desire to harmoniously unite art and nature yet are unique in their approach. Fallingwater seems to arise from the waterfall over which it is built with both waterfall and home nestled among the surrounding . In contrast, Kentuck Knob’s high mountain views and hexagonal design are open and airy providing an ideal backdrop to showcase additional art.

Cost: $60 Maximum # of Participants: 30 Lunch is provided

What to Bring: Consider bringing along a daypack with a few comfort items for the day. Pack a refillable water bottle, snacks, any medication you may need while out, sunscreen, and a camera to capture some amazing examples of

Courtesy Go ! Frank Llyod Wright architecture and design.

Golf at Seven Springs Mountain Resort (Half Day; 8:00 AM – Noon) Test your patience and precision skills. Seven Springs Mountain Resort features excellent opportunities for golf while enjoying the mountain vistas and picturesque beauty of the Laurel Highlands. Measuring at just over 6,500 yards, the dynamic, 18-hole golf course is beginner-friendly yet presents a challenge for advanced players.

Cost: $53 Maximum # of Participants: 144 Lunch is provided

What to bring: Your fee includes 18 holes, cart, and lunch. Bring your own equipment and clubs. Rental equipment is available onsite for an additional $30.00 plus tax.

Shuttles between the hotel and conference location and the golf course are Courtesy Go Laurel Highlands! available through Seven Springs Mountain Resort.

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Conference_Booklet_NASPD_FINAL_3_21.indd 28 8/19/21 8:09 AM Courtesy Go Laurel Highlands! The Great Escape at (7:30 AM – 3:15 PM) Join State Park staff as we bicycle a 12-mile portion of the (GAP) as it travels on the converted Western Railroad grade along the wild Youghiogheny River. The GAP trail is part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail and was voted one of the top 20 trails in the world by National Geographic Traveler magazine. Along the way, we will stop and explore some of the hidden secrets of the bike trail. The trip ends in Ohiopyle, where participants will test their sleuthing skills in the Great Railway Escape, Ohiopyle State Park’s new escape room. In the escape room, participants will try to find clues and solve puzzles to learn more about the railway and its impact on the town of Ohiopyle. The goal is to find the golden ticket before “the train leaves the station.” Cost: $45 Maximum # of Participants: 25 Lunch is provided

What to bring: Layered, comfortable clothing; suitable footwear; rain gear, hat, and gloves dependent on weather; sunglasses; sunscreen; insect repellent; any necessary medications; camera, cash, or credit card for incidentals in Ohiopyle if desired.

Hiking and Paddleboarding at Laurel Hill State Park (7:30 AM – 3:00 PM) Immerse yourself in the beauty of Laurel Hill State Park. Begin your day by discovering the unique landscape of an ancient forest as we hike through old growth trees within the Hemlock Natural Area. After a delicious lunch, we will explore Laurel Lake by paddleboard or kayak. This leisurely paddle winds through a high-quality, historic mountain waterway.

Cost: $40 Maximum # of Participants: 20 Lunch is provided

What to bring: Participants should dress in comfortable clothing and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Bring hiking footwear, hat, sunscreen, water shoes, towel, water, snacks, and any necessary medications.

National Association of State Park Directors 2021 National Conference 29

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Whitewater Raft the Youghiogheny River (6:30 AM – 3:15 PM) Go with the flow. Challenge yourself by rafting one of the most iconic whitewater runs in Pennyslvania, Ohiopyle State Park’s Lower Youghiogheny. The 6.4-mile Lower Yough’s (Yawk’s) Class III-IV rapids are sure to keep the blood pumping while your eyes feast on gorgeous scenery. Participants will uncover what makes this river so unique and investigate the flora and fauna that call it home. An interpretive naturalist will provide education while river guides captain every raft.

Cost: $150 Maximum # of Participants: 24 Lunch is provided

What to Bring: Equipment is provided but getting soaked is inevitable, so wear appropriate clothing like synthetic fabrics intended to dry easily; do not wear cotton. Splash jackets will be available at an extra cost if the weather is cold. Appropriate footwear is a must; they must securely fasten to your feet. Please wear water shoes, sandals, or old sneakers. Brings straps for your glasses. Sunscreen, ball caps, and sunglasses with a glasses strap are all helpful. Bring a bag with dry clothing and a towel for changing after the trip; leave these on the bus. Expensive jewelry, watches, and cell phones are not recommended on the river. Last but not least, bring your sense of adventure!

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