Hike the forests of Port Oneida and explore how early settlers transformed the landscape from native forests into fields, pastures, and homesteads—and how the forest continued to shape daily life. European settlement involved taking over landscapes that had already been actively shaped and managed by Indigenous communities for hundreds of years. We’ll discuss the transition from forests to farming, the challenges of working with poor, sandy soils, and the plants settlers brought with them. Learn how forests provided essential materials for cabins, barns, root cellars, fences, fuel, and tools, as well as seasonal sources of income such as maple sugaring and other woodland resources. Early farm families brought plants from the places they migrated from. We’ll see evidence of these plants changed the landscape.
Hike Details:
Join us for a scenic hike along the Bay View Trail starting at the historic Port Oneida Schoolhouse. Climb through the red pine plantation while discovering how early settler plantings helped shape the forest we see today. Along the way, we’ll pause to explore the stories and history behind the trees, landscape, and people who helped shape Port Oneida. We’ll make our way to the lookout for beautiful views, then complete the loop or retrace our steps back to the parking area. Come ready to walk, learn, and enjoy the landscape!
Please park in the parking lot across from the schoolhouse/behind the Kelderhouse
Make sure to keep an eye on the weather and dress accordingly!
Walking poles and water would be a suggestion to bring as well.
If raining, we will reschedule the hike to Sunday, October 11th.
Registration Fee: $15
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