GulfIslandsNational Seashore Superintendent Dan Brown announced today summer evening programs at Fort Pickens Area.
On Thursday, July 25th, at 7 p.m., Park Ranger Beckie Mims will lead an hour-long walk at the end of Santa Rosa Island. The public is invited to participate in this leisurely hike, which will begin at the Fort Pickens Auditorium. Walkers will have the opportunity to explore historic remnants of America’s coastal defenses and view native flora and fauna. The level of difficulty is easy with some soft sand. Participants should wear closed-toed shoes and bring water.
On Thursday, August 1st and 8th, at 8 p.m., Park Ranger Beckie Mims will lead an hour-long program on the night skies of Gulf Islands National Seashore. Meet at the Langdon Beach Gulf side pavilion, which is located two miles west of the Fort Pickens Entrance Station. “Bring the entire family, and a blanket to sit on. A short 200 yard stroll along the sand leads to an ideal location to spread out a blanket and enjoy a planetary lineup of our solar system. Relax and learn about the many park species that depend upon dark night skies for their survival,” said Superintendent Dan Brown. Participants should remember the Fort Pickens Entrance Station closes at sunset. Late arrivals will not be allowed to enter.
The programs are free of charge; however, there is an $8 entrance fee to the Fort Pickens Area. For more information call the Naval Live Oaks Visitor Center at 934-2600 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/guis. Follow us on Twitter @gulfislandsnps to receive daily messages or "tweets" on park programs and information.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Gulf Islands National Seashore Announces Night Skies and Sunset Hike