Discover local flora during 2 ranger-led walks at Harrison Hills Park

Outdoor enthusiasts are invited to take part in two free hikes this month at Harrison Hills Park.

Seeds and Spores is scheduled for Sept. 17. Hit the Trail will happen Sept. 25.

Hosted by Allegheny County, the hikes are tailored to all skill levels. Park rangers will lead the first, slower-paced session from 1 to 3 p.m.

The educational walk is for people who want to get down and dirty with the many plants that line the miles of trails at the 524-acre facility off Freeport Road.

From the biggest trees to the smallest fungi, most begin their life as a tiny seed or spore, organizers said. Guides will discuss the life cycles during many stops along the route.

“Rangers will lead a fascinating hike exploring the tiny world of seeds and spores,” said Braden Meiter, lead supervisory park ranger for Allegheny County Parks.

“You will learn about how many of our native plant species reproduce and how you can be a part of spreading their species.”

This hike goes about 2 miles and will include up close looks at plants and fungi. Walkers should meet at the Rachel Carson pavilion in the upper portion of the park.

Both of the sessions promise to be exciting for participants, Meiter said.

“If you are looking for something a little faster paced, you can join our park rangers for our Hit the Trail hike,” he said.

This jaunt begins at 9 a.m. and is more recreation- focused with fewer stops and more moving.

Rangers will provide information about the park’s natural and cultural resources, but the stops will be brief. The course is about 2 miles, and people should meet in the lower parking lot of the Environmental Learning Center.

Limited registration is available. Both sessions have room for about 20 people.

Walkers should arrive about 15 minutes early.

To register, visit allegheny county.us/parks/harrison- hills.