Ted Stiles Memorial Hike returns to Baldpate Mountain

Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space (FoHVOS) and Mercer County announced the return of the Ted Stiles Memorial Hike at Baldpate Mountain.

The beloved community event, held annually in honor of former FoHVOS president Ted Stiles, celebrates his vision and dedication that led to the preservation of thousands of acres in Hopewell Valley, including Baldpate Mountain.

The hike takes place from 9-11:30 a.m., May 4 at Baldpate Mountain in Hopewell Township.

This year’s hike will not only honor Ted Stiles but also celebrate the longstanding partnership between FoHVOS and Mercer County.

The collaboration has resulted in numerous impactful restoration projects aimed at protecting and preserving the Mountain’s diverse ecological features.

This year, participants can choose from three themed hikes, each led by knowledgeable FoHVOS staff.

All hikes will begin at 9 a.m. and last approximately 90 minutes, focusing on different topics.

After the hikes, attendees will gather at the historic lodge near the Baldpate mansion for coffee, donuts, and meaningful community discussions.

People are being asked to register for the hike they plan to attend.

Hike Descriptions:

Hike No. 1: Stewardship Hike

Baldpate Mountain was a huge preservation success for Hopewell Valley and Mercer County – for its size, but also conservation values. Rare species, both plant and animal find refuge at the preserve. 

To best care for these species and their communities, the co-owners and managers of Baldpate collaborate on restoration planning initiatives, implementation, and their maintenance. 

Join the stewardship directors of FoHVOS and Mercer County on this hike to learn more about the two decades of collaborate conservation efforts on the mountain.

 Hike No. 2: Guided Botanical Walk

Did you know there are 24 rare plant species documented at Baldpate Mountain? FoHVOS routinely monitors rare plants to track population status and better inform stewardship efforts.

Join FoHVOS Land Stewards on a trail walk to identify some of the many plants found at Baldpate and discuss the types of work FoHVOS does to protect them.

Hike No. 3: Birding the Baldpate Driveway

For nearly 20 years, birding the driveway of Baldpate has almost been its own rite of spring for local nature enthusiasts. 

Join Executive Director Jenn Rogers and a local community scientist, for a picturesque stroll and search for colorful harbingers of spring, all the way to the summit of the mountain. 

In addition to filling forests and souls with song, these neotropical migrants played an important role in the preservation of Baldpate. BYOB: Please “bring your own binoculars.” 

To register for a hike, visit the FoHVOS website at www.foHVOS.info or contact Jenn Rogers, executive director of FoHVOS, at jrogers@fohvos.org.