Day Trips
Tour of Shepherdstown’s Historic Thomas Shepherd Grist Mill
Thursday, September 10, 2026
2pm-3:30pm
PRICE: $35
REGISTER HERE ONLINE
or click here to download the paper registration form.
Step back in time and discover one of Shepherdstown’s most intriguing historic properties with this guided tour of the Thomas Shepherd Grist Mill, led by the current homeowners, Adam and Shannon Thomas. This immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to explore a privately owned historic site, see a demonstration of the 40-foot-tall Fitz Steel Overshot Water Wheel, and gain insight into its architectural features, industrial past, and evolving role within the community. The mill, which dates back to 1738 and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, underwent a major structural repair by previous owners in the early 1970s. Shannon and Adam have continued the renovation, weaving together the mill’s structure, character, and stories into a dynamic living space. This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in the heritage of the Shepherdstown area.
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Fall Equinox with a Hike on Snavely Trail
Sunday, September 27
3 – 5pm
Location: Meet at the lower Burnside Bridge parking area
PRICE: Free
REGISTER HERE ONLINE
or click here to download the paper registration form.
Local plant enthusiasts Kathy Bilton and Claudine Lebeau invite you to join them to celebrate the fall equinox with a leisurely hike that explores the Snavely Trail at Antietam National Battlefield. The trail covers a couple of miles through a landscape deep in seasonal transition. We will observe how woody and non-woody plants change color, harbor or shed their fruit, and for the late bloomers, we will still see some flowers. Bring walking sticks, water, snack, binoculars. Registration required.
Difficultly: Moderate
Free naturalist phone apps we recommend: iNaturalist, Merlin, Seek
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Crafting Fall Pumpkins at Dakota Glass Works
Thursday, October 29, 2026
8:30am-5pm
PRICE: $149
REGISTER HERE ONLINE
or click here to download the paper registration form.
Join Lifelong Learning for a hands-on day trip to Dakota Glass Works in Wardensville, West Virginia, where participants will explore the art of glassblowing in a guided workshop. Just in time for the fall season, each attendee will create their own unique glass pumpkin under the instruction of skilled artisans — no prior experience required.
In addition to the workshop, there will be time to learn about Farms Works Wonder, Dakota Glass’ broader community-focused initiative, and to explore the charming local shops and bakery that are part of the project. This all-inclusive experience features round-trip transportation and a provided lunch, making for a relaxed and creative outing. Enjoy the scenic charm of Wardensville while crafting a one-of-a-kind piece to take home and display for Halloween.
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Winter Solstice Hike on Snavely Trail
Sunday, December 20
1-3 pm
Location: Meet at the lower Burnside Bridge parking area
PRICE: Free
REGISTER HERE ONLINE
or click here to download the paper registration form.
Local plant enthusiasts Kathy Bilton and Claudine Lebeau invite you to join them to celebrate the winter solstice with a hike leisurely exploring the Snavely Trail at Antietam National Battlefield. As we walk, we’ll keep an eye out for plants that hold their green through winter alongside those now deep into dormancy. For those who joined us on the Equinox walk, this will be a wonderful chance to revisit the plants and trees – a lesson in phenology. Dress warmly and bring walking sticks, water, snack, binoculars. This hike is a couple of miles.
Registration required.
Difficultly: Moderate
Free naturalist phone apps we recommend: iNaturalist, Merlin, Seek