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"Don't move! He can't see us if we don't move." ~Dr. Alan Grant, and also white-tailed deer fawns. 🦌

Young white-tailed deer fawns are vulnerable to predators. Even though they can stand soon after birth, they aren't strong enough to run away. Fawns instead stay hidden in the landscape away from their mothers, choosing "bedding" locations with protective cover to help shield them from predators and the elements. Their coloring – white spots on a tawny background – looks like dappled sunlight on the forest floor further helping them blend in with their surroundings.

During the first two weeks of life, a doe will visit her fawn three to four times per day to nurse but will otherwise stay at a distance - a strategy that helps keep predators who may be attracted to a doe away from her baby.

⚠️ If you come across a bedded down fawn – please, leave it be! Unless it's visibly injured, the fawn is doing just what it should be – staying still to avoid predators. And mom is somewhere nearby. Touching or moving a fawn can result in abandonment by its mother.

Learn more about white-tailed deer and fawns at go.nps.gov/ValleyForgeFawns

Interested in how Valley Forge National Historical Park manages white-tailed deer populations to promote healthy forests? Visit https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/management/white-tailed-deer.htm to learn more! (🔗link in bio)

(1) A young fawn bedded down in tall grass looks over its spotted back with ears alert. Photo by Bill Moses.

(2) A white-tailed deer doe browsing for food in the underbrush. Her fawn could be nearby. NPS Photo / M. Lefevre-Levy

(3) A spotted fawn surrounded by tall vegetation bedded down and looking up at the camera. NPS Photo / A. Toney

#ValleyForge, #WildlifeWednesday, #WhiteTailedDeer, #Fawns, #NationalParkService.

"Don't move! He can't see us if we don't move." ~Dr. Alan Grant, and also white-tailed deer fawns. 🦌

Young white-tailed deer fawns are vulnerable to predators. Even though they can stand soon after birth, they aren't strong enough to run away. Fawns instead stay hidden in the landscape away from their mothers, choosing "bedding" locations with protective cover to help shield them from predators and the elements. Their coloring – white spots on a tawny background – looks like dappled sunlight on the forest floor further helping them blend in with their surroundings.

During the first two weeks of life, a doe will visit her fawn three to four times per day to nurse but will otherwise stay at a distance - a strategy that helps keep predators who may be attracted to a doe away from her baby.

⚠️ If you come across a bedded down fawn – please, leave it be! Unless it's visibly injured, the fawn is doing just what it should be – staying still to avoid predators. And mom is somewhere nearby. Touching or moving a fawn can result in abandonment by its mother.

Learn more about white-tailed deer and fawns at go.nps.gov/ValleyForgeFawns

Interested in how Valley Forge National Historical Park manages white-tailed deer populations to promote healthy forests? Visit https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/management/white-tailed-deer.htm to learn more! (🔗link in bio)

(1) A young fawn bedded down in tall grass looks over its spotted back with ears alert. Photo by Bill Moses.

(2) A white-tailed deer doe browsing for food in the underbrush. Her fawn could be nearby. NPS Photo / M. Lefevre-Levy

(3) A spotted fawn surrounded by tall vegetation bedded down and looking up at the camera. NPS Photo / A. Toney

#ValleyForge, #WildlifeWednesday, #WhiteTailedDeer, #Fawns, #NationalParkService.

"Don't move! He can't see us if we don't move." ~Dr. Alan Grant, and also white-tailed deer fawns. 🦌

Young white-tailed deer fawns are vulnerable to predators. Even though they can stand soon after birth, they aren't strong enough to run away. Fawns instead stay hidden in the landscape away from their mothers, choosing "bedding" locations with protective cover to help shield them from predators and the elements. Their coloring – white spots on a tawny background – looks like dappled sunlight on the forest floor further helping them blend in with their surroundings.

During the first two weeks of life, a doe will visit her fawn three to four times per day to nurse but will otherwise stay at a distance - a strategy that helps keep predators who may be attracted to a doe away from her baby.

⚠️ If you come across a bedded down fawn – please, leave it be! Unless it's visibly injured, the fawn is doing just what it should be – staying still to avoid predators. And mom is somewhere nearby. Touching or moving a fawn can result in abandonment by its mother.

Learn more about white-tailed deer and fawns at go.nps.gov/ValleyForgeFawns

Interested in how Valley Forge National Historical Park manages white-tailed deer populations to promote healthy forests? Visit https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/management/white-tailed-deer.htm to learn more! (🔗link in bio)

(1) A young fawn bedded down in tall grass looks over its spotted back with ears alert. Photo by Bill Moses.

(2) A white-tailed deer doe browsing for food in the underbrush. Her fawn could be nearby. NPS Photo / M. Lefevre-Levy

(3) A spotted fawn surrounded by tall vegetation bedded down and looking up at the camera. NPS Photo / A. Toney

#ValleyForge, #WildlifeWednesday, #WhiteTailedDeer, #Fawns, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

POSTPONED: The May 24th outing has been postponed due to forecasted rain.It has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 30th from 8-10AM.

🎨 The 2026 Art in the Park program schedule is finally here! 📅

Join park rangers as we explore Valley Forge National Historical Park and our sister park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site through art making. Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and exercise your creativity during this free program. 📸🤳🖼️

Outings are open to all ages and abilities and do not require registration. They are, however, weather dependent. If you have questions, feel free to call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 or check out the website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm

Feb. 28 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
March 28 - 8 to 10am @ Pawlings Farm
April 11 - 8 to 10am @ Fatlands Trail (aka River Trail) from Betzwwod parking area
RESCHEDULED to MAY 30th: May 24 - 8 to 10am @ Valley Creek Trail from Covered Bridge
June 21 - 8 to 10am @ Grand Parade from Steuben area
July 19 - 8 to 10am @ Iron Bridge/Valley Creek from Wilson Rd parking lot
Aug 16 - 11am to 3pm - Pop-Up Art Show @ Muhlenberg's Brigade
Sept. 6 - 8 to 10am Wayne's Woods picnic area
Oct 31 - 7 to 9am @ Steuben/Meadow area for sunrise
Nov. 22 - 9 to 11am @ Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (2 Mark Bird Ln, Elverson, PA)
Dec 6 - 8 to 10am @ Artillery Park

📸 NPS Images

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #HopewellFurnace, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

It's Wildlife Wednesday at Valley Forge! 🐾 Coyotes and foxes call Valley Forge National Historical Park home. These wily neighbors are native to the area and help keep our ecosystem healthy by controlling prey populations, supporting biodiversity, and recycling nutrients. ✨♻️

Coyotes can be secretive animals, but in the springtime sightings increase as adult coyotes double their hunting efforts to support growing cubs back at the den.

Do you know what to do if you spot a coyote or a fox while exploring Valley Forge? 🤔 Here are some tips to keep you, your pets, and our wild friends safe:
📏 Enjoy the moment from a safe distance - a minimum of 100 yards from the animal whenever possible. Binoculars are encouraged!
🐕‍🦺 Keep your doggos and puppers on leash! Your pet will be safer, and our wild neighbors appreciate the space.
👏 In the event that a coyote or fox comes too close, clap your hands and shout "hey there," to encourage them to move along. (You could shout something spicier if you need to 😅)
❌ DO NOT chase after wildlife. They are faster than they look and know the park better than you do.

Thank you for enjoying Valley Forge National Historical Park and for keeping the park safe, wild, and wonderful for everyone!

📸 Images:
(1) A wild coyote standing alert in a meadow at Valley Forge. Photo by Bill Moses.
(2) A coyote in the snow captured at night by a wildlife camera set by Valley Forge park staff. Februrary 2026. NPS Photo.
(3) A red fox running across a Valley Forge field. Photo by Bill Moses.
(4) A red fox in the snow captured by a wildlife camera set by Valley Forge park staff. February 2026. NPS Photo.

#ValleyForge, #Coyote, #Fox, #Wildlife, #Safety, #NationalParkService.

It's Wildlife Wednesday at Valley Forge! 🐾 Coyotes and foxes call Valley Forge National Historical Park home. These wily neighbors are native to the area and help keep our ecosystem healthy by controlling prey populations, supporting biodiversity, and recycling nutrients. ✨♻️

Coyotes can be secretive animals, but in the springtime sightings increase as adult coyotes double their hunting efforts to support growing cubs back at the den.

Do you know what to do if you spot a coyote or a fox while exploring Valley Forge? 🤔 Here are some tips to keep you, your pets, and our wild friends safe:
📏 Enjoy the moment from a safe distance - a minimum of 100 yards from the animal whenever possible. Binoculars are encouraged!
🐕‍🦺 Keep your doggos and puppers on leash! Your pet will be safer, and our wild neighbors appreciate the space.
👏 In the event that a coyote or fox comes too close, clap your hands and shout "hey there," to encourage them to move along. (You could shout something spicier if you need to 😅)
❌ DO NOT chase after wildlife. They are faster than they look and know the park better than you do.

Thank you for enjoying Valley Forge National Historical Park and for keeping the park safe, wild, and wonderful for everyone!

📸 Images:
(1) A wild coyote standing alert in a meadow at Valley Forge. Photo by Bill Moses.
(2) A coyote in the snow captured at night by a wildlife camera set by Valley Forge park staff. Februrary 2026. NPS Photo.
(3) A red fox running across a Valley Forge field. Photo by Bill Moses.
(4) A red fox in the snow captured by a wildlife camera set by Valley Forge park staff. February 2026. NPS Photo.

#ValleyForge, #Coyote, #Fox, #Wildlife, #Safety, #NationalParkService.

It's Wildlife Wednesday at Valley Forge! 🐾 Coyotes and foxes call Valley Forge National Historical Park home. These wily neighbors are native to the area and help keep our ecosystem healthy by controlling prey populations, supporting biodiversity, and recycling nutrients. ✨♻️

Coyotes can be secretive animals, but in the springtime sightings increase as adult coyotes double their hunting efforts to support growing cubs back at the den.

Do you know what to do if you spot a coyote or a fox while exploring Valley Forge? 🤔 Here are some tips to keep you, your pets, and our wild friends safe:
📏 Enjoy the moment from a safe distance - a minimum of 100 yards from the animal whenever possible. Binoculars are encouraged!
🐕‍🦺 Keep your doggos and puppers on leash! Your pet will be safer, and our wild neighbors appreciate the space.
👏 In the event that a coyote or fox comes too close, clap your hands and shout "hey there," to encourage them to move along. (You could shout something spicier if you need to 😅)
❌ DO NOT chase after wildlife. They are faster than they look and know the park better than you do.

Thank you for enjoying Valley Forge National Historical Park and for keeping the park safe, wild, and wonderful for everyone!

📸 Images:
(1) A wild coyote standing alert in a meadow at Valley Forge. Photo by Bill Moses.
(2) A coyote in the snow captured at night by a wildlife camera set by Valley Forge park staff. Februrary 2026. NPS Photo.
(3) A red fox running across a Valley Forge field. Photo by Bill Moses.
(4) A red fox in the snow captured by a wildlife camera set by Valley Forge park staff. February 2026. NPS Photo.

#ValleyForge, #Coyote, #Fox, #Wildlife, #Safety, #NationalParkService.

It's Wildlife Wednesday at Valley Forge! 🐾 Coyotes and foxes call Valley Forge National Historical Park home. These wily neighbors are native to the area and help keep our ecosystem healthy by controlling prey populations, supporting biodiversity, and recycling nutrients. ✨♻️

Coyotes can be secretive animals, but in the springtime sightings increase as adult coyotes double their hunting efforts to support growing cubs back at the den.

Do you know what to do if you spot a coyote or a fox while exploring Valley Forge? 🤔 Here are some tips to keep you, your pets, and our wild friends safe:
📏 Enjoy the moment from a safe distance - a minimum of 100 yards from the animal whenever possible. Binoculars are encouraged!
🐕‍🦺 Keep your doggos and puppers on leash! Your pet will be safer, and our wild neighbors appreciate the space.
👏 In the event that a coyote or fox comes too close, clap your hands and shout "hey there," to encourage them to move along. (You could shout something spicier if you need to 😅)
❌ DO NOT chase after wildlife. They are faster than they look and know the park better than you do.

Thank you for enjoying Valley Forge National Historical Park and for keeping the park safe, wild, and wonderful for everyone!

📸 Images:
(1) A wild coyote standing alert in a meadow at Valley Forge. Photo by Bill Moses.
(2) A coyote in the snow captured at night by a wildlife camera set by Valley Forge park staff. Februrary 2026. NPS Photo.
(3) A red fox running across a Valley Forge field. Photo by Bill Moses.
(4) A red fox in the snow captured by a wildlife camera set by Valley Forge park staff. February 2026. NPS Photo.

#ValleyForge, #Coyote, #Fox, #Wildlife, #Safety, #NationalParkService.

Earlier this month, Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge commemorated “French Alliance Day,” honoring the 1778 alliance between France and the United States during the American Revolution.

After news of the French alliance reached Valley Forge in 1778, General George Washington called for a day of celebration and thanksgiving, recognizing France as a powerful ally in the fight for independence.

The Franco-American alliance would later become a defining part of the story of the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, culminating in the allied march to Yorktown and the victory that helped secure American independence.

Events like the commemoration of French Alliance Day continue to highlight the enduring connection between the United States and France and the shared history preserved along the trail.

Photos from: Washington Memorial Heritage

#WashingtonRochambeau #FrenchAlliance #ValleyForge #AmericanRevolution #NationalParkService

Earlier this month, Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge commemorated “French Alliance Day,” honoring the 1778 alliance between France and the United States during the American Revolution.

After news of the French alliance reached Valley Forge in 1778, General George Washington called for a day of celebration and thanksgiving, recognizing France as a powerful ally in the fight for independence.

The Franco-American alliance would later become a defining part of the story of the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, culminating in the allied march to Yorktown and the victory that helped secure American independence.

Events like the commemoration of French Alliance Day continue to highlight the enduring connection between the United States and France and the shared history preserved along the trail.

Photos from: Washington Memorial Heritage

#WashingtonRochambeau #FrenchAlliance #ValleyForge #AmericanRevolution #NationalParkService

Earlier this month, Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge commemorated “French Alliance Day,” honoring the 1778 alliance between France and the United States during the American Revolution.

After news of the French alliance reached Valley Forge in 1778, General George Washington called for a day of celebration and thanksgiving, recognizing France as a powerful ally in the fight for independence.

The Franco-American alliance would later become a defining part of the story of the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, culminating in the allied march to Yorktown and the victory that helped secure American independence.

Events like the commemoration of French Alliance Day continue to highlight the enduring connection between the United States and France and the shared history preserved along the trail.

Photos from: Washington Memorial Heritage

#WashingtonRochambeau #FrenchAlliance #ValleyForge #AmericanRevolution #NationalParkService

Earlier this month, Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge commemorated “French Alliance Day,” honoring the 1778 alliance between France and the United States during the American Revolution.

After news of the French alliance reached Valley Forge in 1778, General George Washington called for a day of celebration and thanksgiving, recognizing France as a powerful ally in the fight for independence.

The Franco-American alliance would later become a defining part of the story of the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, culminating in the allied march to Yorktown and the victory that helped secure American independence.

Events like the commemoration of French Alliance Day continue to highlight the enduring connection between the United States and France and the shared history preserved along the trail.

Photos from: Washington Memorial Heritage

#WashingtonRochambeau #FrenchAlliance #ValleyForge #AmericanRevolution #NationalParkService

Earlier this month, Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge commemorated “French Alliance Day,” honoring the 1778 alliance between France and the United States during the American Revolution.

After news of the French alliance reached Valley Forge in 1778, General George Washington called for a day of celebration and thanksgiving, recognizing France as a powerful ally in the fight for independence.

The Franco-American alliance would later become a defining part of the story of the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, culminating in the allied march to Yorktown and the victory that helped secure American independence.

Events like the commemoration of French Alliance Day continue to highlight the enduring connection between the United States and France and the shared history preserved along the trail.

Photos from: Washington Memorial Heritage

#WashingtonRochambeau #FrenchAlliance #ValleyForge #AmericanRevolution #NationalParkService

FIFTY days from now, Valley Forge National Historical Park turns FIFTY years old! 5️⃣0️⃣ 🥳

Valley Forge, the only national park established on the 4th of July, celebrates its 50th anniversary this summer with a three-day commemorative event. “Retreat to Valley Forge” will take place July 3–5, 2026. The celebration honors both the 50th anniversary of the park’s addition to the National Park System and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Over the holiday weekend, visitors will experience living history demonstrations, musical performances, historical readings, interactive family programs, black powder demonstrations and two new temporary exhibits: “Valley Forge Then and Now” and “My Valley Forge Story.”

The celebration begins July 3 with the dedication of a newly installed storytelling fire pit, a focal point for the weekend’s interpretive programs. Events on July 4 center around the National Memorial Arch, commemorating the park’s founding and the 248th anniversary of the Continental Army encampment. A closing ceremony at Muhlenberg’s Brigade on July 5 concludes the event.

The park expects high visitation throughout the weekend, due to regional Independence Day events as well as international tourism associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Find trip planning information and the full news release on the park website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/news/50-250-celebration-retreat-to-valley-forge.htm (link in bio)

#ValleyForge50, #Freedom250, #50YearsOfValleyForge, #NationalParkService.

FIFTY days from now, Valley Forge National Historical Park turns FIFTY years old! 5️⃣0️⃣ 🥳

Valley Forge, the only national park established on the 4th of July, celebrates its 50th anniversary this summer with a three-day commemorative event. “Retreat to Valley Forge” will take place July 3–5, 2026. The celebration honors both the 50th anniversary of the park’s addition to the National Park System and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Over the holiday weekend, visitors will experience living history demonstrations, musical performances, historical readings, interactive family programs, black powder demonstrations and two new temporary exhibits: “Valley Forge Then and Now” and “My Valley Forge Story.”

The celebration begins July 3 with the dedication of a newly installed storytelling fire pit, a focal point for the weekend’s interpretive programs. Events on July 4 center around the National Memorial Arch, commemorating the park’s founding and the 248th anniversary of the Continental Army encampment. A closing ceremony at Muhlenberg’s Brigade on July 5 concludes the event.

The park expects high visitation throughout the weekend, due to regional Independence Day events as well as international tourism associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Find trip planning information and the full news release on the park website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/news/50-250-celebration-retreat-to-valley-forge.htm (link in bio)

#ValleyForge50, #Freedom250, #50YearsOfValleyForge, #NationalParkService.

FIFTY days from now, Valley Forge National Historical Park turns FIFTY years old! 5️⃣0️⃣ 🥳

Valley Forge, the only national park established on the 4th of July, celebrates its 50th anniversary this summer with a three-day commemorative event. “Retreat to Valley Forge” will take place July 3–5, 2026. The celebration honors both the 50th anniversary of the park’s addition to the National Park System and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Over the holiday weekend, visitors will experience living history demonstrations, musical performances, historical readings, interactive family programs, black powder demonstrations and two new temporary exhibits: “Valley Forge Then and Now” and “My Valley Forge Story.”

The celebration begins July 3 with the dedication of a newly installed storytelling fire pit, a focal point for the weekend’s interpretive programs. Events on July 4 center around the National Memorial Arch, commemorating the park’s founding and the 248th anniversary of the Continental Army encampment. A closing ceremony at Muhlenberg’s Brigade on July 5 concludes the event.

The park expects high visitation throughout the weekend, due to regional Independence Day events as well as international tourism associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Find trip planning information and the full news release on the park website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/news/50-250-celebration-retreat-to-valley-forge.htm (link in bio)

#ValleyForge50, #Freedom250, #50YearsOfValleyForge, #NationalParkService.

FIFTY days from now, Valley Forge National Historical Park turns FIFTY years old! 5️⃣0️⃣ 🥳

Valley Forge, the only national park established on the 4th of July, celebrates its 50th anniversary this summer with a three-day commemorative event. “Retreat to Valley Forge” will take place July 3–5, 2026. The celebration honors both the 50th anniversary of the park’s addition to the National Park System and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Over the holiday weekend, visitors will experience living history demonstrations, musical performances, historical readings, interactive family programs, black powder demonstrations and two new temporary exhibits: “Valley Forge Then and Now” and “My Valley Forge Story.”

The celebration begins July 3 with the dedication of a newly installed storytelling fire pit, a focal point for the weekend’s interpretive programs. Events on July 4 center around the National Memorial Arch, commemorating the park’s founding and the 248th anniversary of the Continental Army encampment. A closing ceremony at Muhlenberg’s Brigade on July 5 concludes the event.

The park expects high visitation throughout the weekend, due to regional Independence Day events as well as international tourism associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Find trip planning information and the full news release on the park website at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/news/50-250-celebration-retreat-to-valley-forge.htm (link in bio)

#ValleyForge50, #Freedom250, #50YearsOfValleyForge, #NationalParkService.

🗣️ This just in! During the American Revolution, news and the flow of information moved at a different pace than it does today — and on this day 248 years ago, some very important news reached General George Washington at Valley Forge.

Back on February 6, 1778, the Kingdom of France and representatives of the fledgling United States signed a Treaty of Alliance in Paris formalizing a mutual defense pact between France and the American states. But this was just the first step.

A physical document still had to be carried across the Atlantic Ocean by ship and delivered by hand to Congress for ratification. At the time, Philadelphia was occupied by British forces and Congress was headquartered in York, PA, with the bulk of the American army encamped strategically between the two at Valley Forge. The signed treaty made it to Congress almost TWO MONTHS LATER on May 2, 1778. It was ratified on May 4, and the official news finally reached George Washington at Valley Forge on May 5.

He immediately issued orders to the troops to prepare for special celebrations to take place the next day in honor of the momentous new alliance.

You can read the full text of Washington’s May 5, 1778 orders at Founders Online: https://founders.archive.org

Even though the official news reached the army TWO MONTHS after the treaty was formalized, rumors of the alliance were floating around before May 5. Take the diary of Captain Paul Brigham of the 8th Connecticut Regiment, where he wrote four days earlier on May 1:

“Clouday Dull weather I was not well and Took a Vomit heard some agreable news from France.”

Learn more about French Alliance Day at https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/alliance-with-france.htm (link in bio)

📹 NPS Video and Music

#ValleyForge, #AmericanRevolution, #FrenchAllianceDay, #FeuDeJoie, #NationalParkService.

🪶📜 Was the pen mightier than the sword during the American Revolution?

📅 Join stationer and living historian Ben Bartgis at the Visitor Center at Valley Forge on Saturday, May 9, 2026 to learn about documents and letter writing as they relate to the Franco-American Alliance and the American Revolutionary War.

See original and reproduction items related to colonial reading, writing, and education and try your hand at writing a letter with a quill pen!

Learn more by visiting go.nps.gov/QuillsInkProgram

📸 NPS Images
(1) A quill pen, ink pot, shaver, various handwritten letters and a bound book sit on a table. An arrow pointing to the right accompanies the word "swipe"
(2) A person dressed in 18th century clothing holds a bundle of paper at a wooden desk. Title text reads "Mightier than the Sword? Running a Revolutionary Army on Quills and Ink."

#ValleyForge, #ValleyForge50, #QuillsAndInk, #LivingHistory, #NationalParkService.

🪶📜 Was the pen mightier than the sword during the American Revolution?

📅 Join stationer and living historian Ben Bartgis at the Visitor Center at Valley Forge on Saturday, May 9, 2026 to learn about documents and letter writing as they relate to the Franco-American Alliance and the American Revolutionary War.

See original and reproduction items related to colonial reading, writing, and education and try your hand at writing a letter with a quill pen!

Learn more by visiting go.nps.gov/QuillsInkProgram

📸 NPS Images
(1) A quill pen, ink pot, shaver, various handwritten letters and a bound book sit on a table. An arrow pointing to the right accompanies the word "swipe"
(2) A person dressed in 18th century clothing holds a bundle of paper at a wooden desk. Title text reads "Mightier than the Sword? Running a Revolutionary Army on Quills and Ink."

#ValleyForge, #ValleyForge50, #QuillsAndInk, #LivingHistory, #NationalParkService.

💪 "Y'all ready for your training montage?" ~Baron von Steuben, probably

248 years ago this month, Inspector General Friedrich von Steuben trained soldiers of the Continental Army how to safely and rapidly load and fire their muskets. This training transformed the Continental Army into a professional, well-trained fighting force. But General von Steuben wasn’t training all of the soldiers himself. Instead, he trained officers appointed for the task, known as “brigade inspectors,” who then went and trained their respective brigades. In modern terms, we would say he “trained the trainers.”

Today, the National Park Service carries on General von Steuben’s legacy in how it handles its historic weapons program. Last February, Valley Forge National Historical Park sent several members of staff to attend the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course. These newly-trained historic weapons supervisors came back to the park and trained their colleagues in the same drill that was taught at Valley Forge so many years ago.

Maintaining historical accuracy with a strong focus on modern safety standards allows the historic weapons program to be a safe, entertaining, and most importantly, informative teaching tool. Some of the most popular programs we give involve firing muskets and especially cannons. Little do many of those visitors know that they’re also learning many great and important bits of American history.

Learn more about how Baron von Steuben and how he trained the troops at Valley Forge at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/historyculture/vonsteuben.htm (link in bio)

(1) Baron von Steuben stands with arms crossed, the text from an apocryphal quote hangs above his head. (NPS Image)
(2) Detail from the painting "Baron Steuben Drilling Continental Soldiers at Valley Forge" by Edwin Austen Abbey, c. 1911 (Public Domain)
(3, 4, 5) Valley Forge park rangers at the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course in Alabama, February 2026. (NPS Photo)
(6) An actor portraying Baron von Steuben drills the soldiers at Valley Forge. From the Valley Forge National Historical Park orientation film. (NPS Photo)

#ValleyForge, #HistoricWeaponsSafety, #BaronVonSteuben, #Training, #NationalParkService.

💪 "Y'all ready for your training montage?" ~Baron von Steuben, probably

248 years ago this month, Inspector General Friedrich von Steuben trained soldiers of the Continental Army how to safely and rapidly load and fire their muskets. This training transformed the Continental Army into a professional, well-trained fighting force. But General von Steuben wasn’t training all of the soldiers himself. Instead, he trained officers appointed for the task, known as “brigade inspectors,” who then went and trained their respective brigades. In modern terms, we would say he “trained the trainers.”

Today, the National Park Service carries on General von Steuben’s legacy in how it handles its historic weapons program. Last February, Valley Forge National Historical Park sent several members of staff to attend the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course. These newly-trained historic weapons supervisors came back to the park and trained their colleagues in the same drill that was taught at Valley Forge so many years ago.

Maintaining historical accuracy with a strong focus on modern safety standards allows the historic weapons program to be a safe, entertaining, and most importantly, informative teaching tool. Some of the most popular programs we give involve firing muskets and especially cannons. Little do many of those visitors know that they’re also learning many great and important bits of American history.

Learn more about how Baron von Steuben and how he trained the troops at Valley Forge at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/historyculture/vonsteuben.htm (link in bio)

(1) Baron von Steuben stands with arms crossed, the text from an apocryphal quote hangs above his head. (NPS Image)
(2) Detail from the painting "Baron Steuben Drilling Continental Soldiers at Valley Forge" by Edwin Austen Abbey, c. 1911 (Public Domain)
(3, 4, 5) Valley Forge park rangers at the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course in Alabama, February 2026. (NPS Photo)
(6) An actor portraying Baron von Steuben drills the soldiers at Valley Forge. From the Valley Forge National Historical Park orientation film. (NPS Photo)

#ValleyForge, #HistoricWeaponsSafety, #BaronVonSteuben, #Training, #NationalParkService.

💪 "Y'all ready for your training montage?" ~Baron von Steuben, probably

248 years ago this month, Inspector General Friedrich von Steuben trained soldiers of the Continental Army how to safely and rapidly load and fire their muskets. This training transformed the Continental Army into a professional, well-trained fighting force. But General von Steuben wasn’t training all of the soldiers himself. Instead, he trained officers appointed for the task, known as “brigade inspectors,” who then went and trained their respective brigades. In modern terms, we would say he “trained the trainers.”

Today, the National Park Service carries on General von Steuben’s legacy in how it handles its historic weapons program. Last February, Valley Forge National Historical Park sent several members of staff to attend the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course. These newly-trained historic weapons supervisors came back to the park and trained their colleagues in the same drill that was taught at Valley Forge so many years ago.

Maintaining historical accuracy with a strong focus on modern safety standards allows the historic weapons program to be a safe, entertaining, and most importantly, informative teaching tool. Some of the most popular programs we give involve firing muskets and especially cannons. Little do many of those visitors know that they’re also learning many great and important bits of American history.

Learn more about how Baron von Steuben and how he trained the troops at Valley Forge at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/historyculture/vonsteuben.htm (link in bio)

(1) Baron von Steuben stands with arms crossed, the text from an apocryphal quote hangs above his head. (NPS Image)
(2) Detail from the painting "Baron Steuben Drilling Continental Soldiers at Valley Forge" by Edwin Austen Abbey, c. 1911 (Public Domain)
(3, 4, 5) Valley Forge park rangers at the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course in Alabama, February 2026. (NPS Photo)
(6) An actor portraying Baron von Steuben drills the soldiers at Valley Forge. From the Valley Forge National Historical Park orientation film. (NPS Photo)

#ValleyForge, #HistoricWeaponsSafety, #BaronVonSteuben, #Training, #NationalParkService.

💪 "Y'all ready for your training montage?" ~Baron von Steuben, probably

248 years ago this month, Inspector General Friedrich von Steuben trained soldiers of the Continental Army how to safely and rapidly load and fire their muskets. This training transformed the Continental Army into a professional, well-trained fighting force. But General von Steuben wasn’t training all of the soldiers himself. Instead, he trained officers appointed for the task, known as “brigade inspectors,” who then went and trained their respective brigades. In modern terms, we would say he “trained the trainers.”

Today, the National Park Service carries on General von Steuben’s legacy in how it handles its historic weapons program. Last February, Valley Forge National Historical Park sent several members of staff to attend the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course. These newly-trained historic weapons supervisors came back to the park and trained their colleagues in the same drill that was taught at Valley Forge so many years ago.

Maintaining historical accuracy with a strong focus on modern safety standards allows the historic weapons program to be a safe, entertaining, and most importantly, informative teaching tool. Some of the most popular programs we give involve firing muskets and especially cannons. Little do many of those visitors know that they’re also learning many great and important bits of American history.

Learn more about how Baron von Steuben and how he trained the troops at Valley Forge at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/historyculture/vonsteuben.htm (link in bio)

(1) Baron von Steuben stands with arms crossed, the text from an apocryphal quote hangs above his head. (NPS Image)
(2) Detail from the painting "Baron Steuben Drilling Continental Soldiers at Valley Forge" by Edwin Austen Abbey, c. 1911 (Public Domain)
(3, 4, 5) Valley Forge park rangers at the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course in Alabama, February 2026. (NPS Photo)
(6) An actor portraying Baron von Steuben drills the soldiers at Valley Forge. From the Valley Forge National Historical Park orientation film. (NPS Photo)

#ValleyForge, #HistoricWeaponsSafety, #BaronVonSteuben, #Training, #NationalParkService.

💪 "Y'all ready for your training montage?" ~Baron von Steuben, probably

248 years ago this month, Inspector General Friedrich von Steuben trained soldiers of the Continental Army how to safely and rapidly load and fire their muskets. This training transformed the Continental Army into a professional, well-trained fighting force. But General von Steuben wasn’t training all of the soldiers himself. Instead, he trained officers appointed for the task, known as “brigade inspectors,” who then went and trained their respective brigades. In modern terms, we would say he “trained the trainers.”

Today, the National Park Service carries on General von Steuben’s legacy in how it handles its historic weapons program. Last February, Valley Forge National Historical Park sent several members of staff to attend the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course. These newly-trained historic weapons supervisors came back to the park and trained their colleagues in the same drill that was taught at Valley Forge so many years ago.

Maintaining historical accuracy with a strong focus on modern safety standards allows the historic weapons program to be a safe, entertaining, and most importantly, informative teaching tool. Some of the most popular programs we give involve firing muskets and especially cannons. Little do many of those visitors know that they’re also learning many great and important bits of American history.

Learn more about how Baron von Steuben and how he trained the troops at Valley Forge at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/historyculture/vonsteuben.htm (link in bio)

(1) Baron von Steuben stands with arms crossed, the text from an apocryphal quote hangs above his head. (NPS Image)
(2) Detail from the painting "Baron Steuben Drilling Continental Soldiers at Valley Forge" by Edwin Austen Abbey, c. 1911 (Public Domain)
(3, 4, 5) Valley Forge park rangers at the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course in Alabama, February 2026. (NPS Photo)
(6) An actor portraying Baron von Steuben drills the soldiers at Valley Forge. From the Valley Forge National Historical Park orientation film. (NPS Photo)

#ValleyForge, #HistoricWeaponsSafety, #BaronVonSteuben, #Training, #NationalParkService.

💪 "Y'all ready for your training montage?" ~Baron von Steuben, probably

248 years ago this month, Inspector General Friedrich von Steuben trained soldiers of the Continental Army how to safely and rapidly load and fire their muskets. This training transformed the Continental Army into a professional, well-trained fighting force. But General von Steuben wasn’t training all of the soldiers himself. Instead, he trained officers appointed for the task, known as “brigade inspectors,” who then went and trained their respective brigades. In modern terms, we would say he “trained the trainers.”

Today, the National Park Service carries on General von Steuben’s legacy in how it handles its historic weapons program. Last February, Valley Forge National Historical Park sent several members of staff to attend the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course. These newly-trained historic weapons supervisors came back to the park and trained their colleagues in the same drill that was taught at Valley Forge so many years ago.

Maintaining historical accuracy with a strong focus on modern safety standards allows the historic weapons program to be a safe, entertaining, and most importantly, informative teaching tool. Some of the most popular programs we give involve firing muskets and especially cannons. Little do many of those visitors know that they’re also learning many great and important bits of American history.

Learn more about how Baron von Steuben and how he trained the troops at Valley Forge at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/learn/historyculture/vonsteuben.htm (link in bio)

(1) Baron von Steuben stands with arms crossed, the text from an apocryphal quote hangs above his head. (NPS Image)
(2) Detail from the painting "Baron Steuben Drilling Continental Soldiers at Valley Forge" by Edwin Austen Abbey, c. 1911 (Public Domain)
(3, 4, 5) Valley Forge park rangers at the NPS Historic Weapons Safety Course in Alabama, February 2026. (NPS Photo)
(6) An actor portraying Baron von Steuben drills the soldiers at Valley Forge. From the Valley Forge National Historical Park orientation film. (NPS Photo)

#ValleyForge, #HistoricWeaponsSafety, #BaronVonSteuben, #Training, #NationalParkService.

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

20 years of Rev Run… And what a day it was 🩵

To everyone who showed up, cheered loud, bundled up, and brought the energy despite the cold and wind — THANK YOU. Seeing so many smiling faces out on the course reminded us exactly why this event means so much year after year.

A very special (and extra loud) thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — the true heartbeat of this event. Your support, generosity, and commitment are what makes Rev Run possible, and this milestone year would not have happened without you.

Because of this amazing community — our sponsors, partners, runners, walkers, and volunteers — we’re proud to give back $100,000 to Valley Forge National Historical Park. That impact is real, and it’s all thanks to you.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making our 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year 👟🥇

#MakeItMontco

This Sunday, April 19 is the 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run! 🏃‍➡️

⚠️ The administration parking lot is closed to vehicles from Friday, April 17 until 12 noon on Sunday, April 19 for Rev Run setup and activities.

⚠️ The main park entrance and tour roads will be closed on race day (Sunday, April 19) from 4:30am to 11am.

Organized by park partner the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board, this event is a Valley Forge tradition and has supported infrastructure and programming all across the park. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the race AND the 50th anniversary of Valley Forge National Historical Park. Learn more about the Valley Forge 50th at go.nps.gov/VAFOCommemorations (link in bio)

Learn more about the race or register for the virtual run with @visitvalleyforge

Find Valley Forge National Historical Park alerts and current conditions at go.nps.gov/vfsafe

#ParkAlert, #RoadClosures, #RevRun, #ValleyForge50, #NationalParkService.

This Sunday, April 19 is the 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run! 🏃‍➡️

⚠️ The administration parking lot is closed to vehicles from Friday, April 17 until 12 noon on Sunday, April 19 for Rev Run setup and activities.

⚠️ The main park entrance and tour roads will be closed on race day (Sunday, April 19) from 4:30am to 11am.

Organized by park partner the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board, this event is a Valley Forge tradition and has supported infrastructure and programming all across the park. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the race AND the 50th anniversary of Valley Forge National Historical Park. Learn more about the Valley Forge 50th at go.nps.gov/VAFOCommemorations (link in bio)

Learn more about the race or register for the virtual run with @visitvalleyforge

Find Valley Forge National Historical Park alerts and current conditions at go.nps.gov/vfsafe

#ParkAlert, #RoadClosures, #RevRun, #ValleyForge50, #NationalParkService.

This Sunday, April 19 is the 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run! 🏃‍➡️

⚠️ The administration parking lot is closed to vehicles from Friday, April 17 until 12 noon on Sunday, April 19 for Rev Run setup and activities.

⚠️ The main park entrance and tour roads will be closed on race day (Sunday, April 19) from 4:30am to 11am.

Organized by park partner the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board, this event is a Valley Forge tradition and has supported infrastructure and programming all across the park. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the race AND the 50th anniversary of Valley Forge National Historical Park. Learn more about the Valley Forge 50th at go.nps.gov/VAFOCommemorations (link in bio)

Learn more about the race or register for the virtual run with @visitvalleyforge

Find Valley Forge National Historical Park alerts and current conditions at go.nps.gov/vfsafe

#ParkAlert, #RoadClosures, #RevRun, #ValleyForge50, #NationalParkService.

This Sunday, April 19 is the 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run! 🏃‍➡️

⚠️ The administration parking lot is closed to vehicles from Friday, April 17 until 12 noon on Sunday, April 19 for Rev Run setup and activities.

⚠️ The main park entrance and tour roads will be closed on race day (Sunday, April 19) from 4:30am to 11am.

Organized by park partner the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board, this event is a Valley Forge tradition and has supported infrastructure and programming all across the park. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the race AND the 50th anniversary of Valley Forge National Historical Park. Learn more about the Valley Forge 50th at go.nps.gov/VAFOCommemorations (link in bio)

Learn more about the race or register for the virtual run with @visitvalleyforge

Find Valley Forge National Historical Park alerts and current conditions at go.nps.gov/vfsafe

#ParkAlert, #RoadClosures, #RevRun, #ValleyForge50, #NationalParkService.

This Sunday, April 19 is the 20th Annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run! 🏃‍➡️

⚠️ The administration parking lot is closed to vehicles from Friday, April 17 until 12 noon on Sunday, April 19 for Rev Run setup and activities.

⚠️ The main park entrance and tour roads will be closed on race day (Sunday, April 19) from 4:30am to 11am.

Organized by park partner the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board, this event is a Valley Forge tradition and has supported infrastructure and programming all across the park. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the race AND the 50th anniversary of Valley Forge National Historical Park. Learn more about the Valley Forge 50th at go.nps.gov/VAFOCommemorations (link in bio)

Learn more about the race or register for the virtual run with @visitvalleyforge

Find Valley Forge National Historical Park alerts and current conditions at go.nps.gov/vfsafe

#ParkAlert, #RoadClosures, #RevRun, #ValleyForge50, #NationalParkService.

🎨 The next Art in the Park program outing is along the Fatlands trail (formerly the River trail) on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am — mark your calendar!! 📅

Join park rangers for a fun outing exploring the vibrant banks of the Schuylkill River along the Fatlands trail. There are lots of spring wildflowers blooming! Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and prepare for a potentially muddy walk as we create art reflecting the unique seasonal habitat. 📸🤳🖼️

📍Meet park rangers at the far end of the Betzwood parking lot by 8am.

As always, Art in the Park outings are free and open to all ages and abilities. Outings are also weather dependent. If the weather is not looking good, please check the park's website, social media, or call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 to confirm whether it's still happening.

📸:
(1 & 2) a large patch of Virgina bluebells blooming. Art in the Park at the Fatlands Trail is on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am. NPS Photo.
(3) A plein air painter works on a landscape view of the Schuylkill River. NPS Photo.
(4) A common merganser on the banks of the river with its wings outstretched. Photo by Shelby Alexaki.
(5) Walking along the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo.
(6) Colored pencil drawing of virginia bluebells. NPS Illustration/G. Purifoy
(7) A pair of Canada geese walk through a patch of virginia bluebells on the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo/B. Dhunjisha

Learn more about the Valley Forge Art in the Park program and check out the 2026 outing schedule at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm (link in bio).

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #PawlingFarm, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

🎨 The next Art in the Park program outing is along the Fatlands trail (formerly the River trail) on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am — mark your calendar!! 📅

Join park rangers for a fun outing exploring the vibrant banks of the Schuylkill River along the Fatlands trail. There are lots of spring wildflowers blooming! Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and prepare for a potentially muddy walk as we create art reflecting the unique seasonal habitat. 📸🤳🖼️

📍Meet park rangers at the far end of the Betzwood parking lot by 8am.

As always, Art in the Park outings are free and open to all ages and abilities. Outings are also weather dependent. If the weather is not looking good, please check the park's website, social media, or call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 to confirm whether it's still happening.

📸:
(1 & 2) a large patch of Virgina bluebells blooming. Art in the Park at the Fatlands Trail is on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am. NPS Photo.
(3) A plein air painter works on a landscape view of the Schuylkill River. NPS Photo.
(4) A common merganser on the banks of the river with its wings outstretched. Photo by Shelby Alexaki.
(5) Walking along the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo.
(6) Colored pencil drawing of virginia bluebells. NPS Illustration/G. Purifoy
(7) A pair of Canada geese walk through a patch of virginia bluebells on the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo/B. Dhunjisha

Learn more about the Valley Forge Art in the Park program and check out the 2026 outing schedule at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm (link in bio).

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #PawlingFarm, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

🎨 The next Art in the Park program outing is along the Fatlands trail (formerly the River trail) on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am — mark your calendar!! 📅

Join park rangers for a fun outing exploring the vibrant banks of the Schuylkill River along the Fatlands trail. There are lots of spring wildflowers blooming! Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and prepare for a potentially muddy walk as we create art reflecting the unique seasonal habitat. 📸🤳🖼️

📍Meet park rangers at the far end of the Betzwood parking lot by 8am.

As always, Art in the Park outings are free and open to all ages and abilities. Outings are also weather dependent. If the weather is not looking good, please check the park's website, social media, or call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 to confirm whether it's still happening.

📸:
(1 & 2) a large patch of Virgina bluebells blooming. Art in the Park at the Fatlands Trail is on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am. NPS Photo.
(3) A plein air painter works on a landscape view of the Schuylkill River. NPS Photo.
(4) A common merganser on the banks of the river with its wings outstretched. Photo by Shelby Alexaki.
(5) Walking along the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo.
(6) Colored pencil drawing of virginia bluebells. NPS Illustration/G. Purifoy
(7) A pair of Canada geese walk through a patch of virginia bluebells on the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo/B. Dhunjisha

Learn more about the Valley Forge Art in the Park program and check out the 2026 outing schedule at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm (link in bio).

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #PawlingFarm, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

🎨 The next Art in the Park program outing is along the Fatlands trail (formerly the River trail) on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am — mark your calendar!! 📅

Join park rangers for a fun outing exploring the vibrant banks of the Schuylkill River along the Fatlands trail. There are lots of spring wildflowers blooming! Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and prepare for a potentially muddy walk as we create art reflecting the unique seasonal habitat. 📸🤳🖼️

📍Meet park rangers at the far end of the Betzwood parking lot by 8am.

As always, Art in the Park outings are free and open to all ages and abilities. Outings are also weather dependent. If the weather is not looking good, please check the park's website, social media, or call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 to confirm whether it's still happening.

📸:
(1 & 2) a large patch of Virgina bluebells blooming. Art in the Park at the Fatlands Trail is on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am. NPS Photo.
(3) A plein air painter works on a landscape view of the Schuylkill River. NPS Photo.
(4) A common merganser on the banks of the river with its wings outstretched. Photo by Shelby Alexaki.
(5) Walking along the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo.
(6) Colored pencil drawing of virginia bluebells. NPS Illustration/G. Purifoy
(7) A pair of Canada geese walk through a patch of virginia bluebells on the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo/B. Dhunjisha

Learn more about the Valley Forge Art in the Park program and check out the 2026 outing schedule at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm (link in bio).

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #PawlingFarm, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

🎨 The next Art in the Park program outing is along the Fatlands trail (formerly the River trail) on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am — mark your calendar!! 📅

Join park rangers for a fun outing exploring the vibrant banks of the Schuylkill River along the Fatlands trail. There are lots of spring wildflowers blooming! Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and prepare for a potentially muddy walk as we create art reflecting the unique seasonal habitat. 📸🤳🖼️

📍Meet park rangers at the far end of the Betzwood parking lot by 8am.

As always, Art in the Park outings are free and open to all ages and abilities. Outings are also weather dependent. If the weather is not looking good, please check the park's website, social media, or call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 to confirm whether it's still happening.

📸:
(1 & 2) a large patch of Virgina bluebells blooming. Art in the Park at the Fatlands Trail is on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am. NPS Photo.
(3) A plein air painter works on a landscape view of the Schuylkill River. NPS Photo.
(4) A common merganser on the banks of the river with its wings outstretched. Photo by Shelby Alexaki.
(5) Walking along the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo.
(6) Colored pencil drawing of virginia bluebells. NPS Illustration/G. Purifoy
(7) A pair of Canada geese walk through a patch of virginia bluebells on the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo/B. Dhunjisha

Learn more about the Valley Forge Art in the Park program and check out the 2026 outing schedule at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm (link in bio).

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #PawlingFarm, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

🎨 The next Art in the Park program outing is along the Fatlands trail (formerly the River trail) on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am — mark your calendar!! 📅

Join park rangers for a fun outing exploring the vibrant banks of the Schuylkill River along the Fatlands trail. There are lots of spring wildflowers blooming! Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and prepare for a potentially muddy walk as we create art reflecting the unique seasonal habitat. 📸🤳🖼️

📍Meet park rangers at the far end of the Betzwood parking lot by 8am.

As always, Art in the Park outings are free and open to all ages and abilities. Outings are also weather dependent. If the weather is not looking good, please check the park's website, social media, or call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 to confirm whether it's still happening.

📸:
(1 & 2) a large patch of Virgina bluebells blooming. Art in the Park at the Fatlands Trail is on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am. NPS Photo.
(3) A plein air painter works on a landscape view of the Schuylkill River. NPS Photo.
(4) A common merganser on the banks of the river with its wings outstretched. Photo by Shelby Alexaki.
(5) Walking along the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo.
(6) Colored pencil drawing of virginia bluebells. NPS Illustration/G. Purifoy
(7) A pair of Canada geese walk through a patch of virginia bluebells on the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo/B. Dhunjisha

Learn more about the Valley Forge Art in the Park program and check out the 2026 outing schedule at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm (link in bio).

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #PawlingFarm, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

🎨 The next Art in the Park program outing is along the Fatlands trail (formerly the River trail) on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am — mark your calendar!! 📅

Join park rangers for a fun outing exploring the vibrant banks of the Schuylkill River along the Fatlands trail. There are lots of spring wildflowers blooming! Bring your favorite camera, paints, or sketching gear and prepare for a potentially muddy walk as we create art reflecting the unique seasonal habitat. 📸🤳🖼️

📍Meet park rangers at the far end of the Betzwood parking lot by 8am.

As always, Art in the Park outings are free and open to all ages and abilities. Outings are also weather dependent. If the weather is not looking good, please check the park's website, social media, or call the Visitor Center at Valley Forge at 610-783-1099 to confirm whether it's still happening.

📸:
(1 & 2) a large patch of Virgina bluebells blooming. Art in the Park at the Fatlands Trail is on Saturday, April 11 from 8am to 10am. NPS Photo.
(3) A plein air painter works on a landscape view of the Schuylkill River. NPS Photo.
(4) A common merganser on the banks of the river with its wings outstretched. Photo by Shelby Alexaki.
(5) Walking along the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo.
(6) Colored pencil drawing of virginia bluebells. NPS Illustration/G. Purifoy
(7) A pair of Canada geese walk through a patch of virginia bluebells on the Fatlands trail. NPS Photo/B. Dhunjisha

Learn more about the Valley Forge Art in the Park program and check out the 2026 outing schedule at https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/artinthepark.htm (link in bio).

#ArtInThePark, #ValleyForge, #PawlingFarm, #OutdoorArt, #NationalParkService.

Who's that pokém—mmm, bird! Who's that bird??🪽

It's the Eastern Meadowlark! At Valley Forge, meadowlarks forage for insects and nest on the ground in the fantastic grassland habitat provided by the Grand Parade meadow. The breeding males' whistling calls can be heard floating over the meadows, announcing "Spring is Here!" 🪺🌾

⚠️ In order to protect our grassland birds during the upcoming breeding season, the Grand Parade Trail is closed to dogs between April 1 and September 15.

Birds nesting in the meadows and grasslands will sense your dog as a predator, even when on leash. This can stress the birds, leading to less productive or even failed nests. 🪹

Please enjoy some of the park's other trails with your furry friend! You can also stop by the visitor center to pick up your copy of the B.A.R.K. Ranger Activity book 🙂

https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/barkranger.htm (🔗link in bio)

Do your part by keeping your doggos out of the meadows during breeding season!

📸:
(1) A silhouette of a bird with a question mark above it.
(2) A black, white and yellow Eastern Meadowlark is revealed! Photo by Bill Moses
(3) No Dogs April 1 to September 15 on the Grand Parade Trail. The sign is a friendly reminder to choose another trail to walk with your dog! NPS Photo
(4) Illustration of a dog on leash with ears raised on high alert. NPS Graphic.
(5) Close up of a breeding adult eastern meadowlark with insects in its beak. Photo by Bill Moses.
(6) A mowed path through the Grand Parade meadow with lots of green vegetation growing tall. NPS Photo
(7) The meadow and grassland landscape of the Grand Parade provides excellent habitat for nesting birds. NPS Photo

#ValleyForge, #Spring, #BreedingBirds, #Dogs, #NationalParkService

Who's that pokém—mmm, bird! Who's that bird??🪽

It's the Eastern Meadowlark! At Valley Forge, meadowlarks forage for insects and nest on the ground in the fantastic grassland habitat provided by the Grand Parade meadow. The breeding males' whistling calls can be heard floating over the meadows, announcing "Spring is Here!" 🪺🌾

⚠️ In order to protect our grassland birds during the upcoming breeding season, the Grand Parade Trail is closed to dogs between April 1 and September 15.

Birds nesting in the meadows and grasslands will sense your dog as a predator, even when on leash. This can stress the birds, leading to less productive or even failed nests. 🪹

Please enjoy some of the park's other trails with your furry friend! You can also stop by the visitor center to pick up your copy of the B.A.R.K. Ranger Activity book 🙂

https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/barkranger.htm (🔗link in bio)

Do your part by keeping your doggos out of the meadows during breeding season!

📸:
(1) A silhouette of a bird with a question mark above it.
(2) A black, white and yellow Eastern Meadowlark is revealed! Photo by Bill Moses
(3) No Dogs April 1 to September 15 on the Grand Parade Trail. The sign is a friendly reminder to choose another trail to walk with your dog! NPS Photo
(4) Illustration of a dog on leash with ears raised on high alert. NPS Graphic.
(5) Close up of a breeding adult eastern meadowlark with insects in its beak. Photo by Bill Moses.
(6) A mowed path through the Grand Parade meadow with lots of green vegetation growing tall. NPS Photo
(7) The meadow and grassland landscape of the Grand Parade provides excellent habitat for nesting birds. NPS Photo

#ValleyForge, #Spring, #BreedingBirds, #Dogs, #NationalParkService

Who's that pokém—mmm, bird! Who's that bird??🪽

It's the Eastern Meadowlark! At Valley Forge, meadowlarks forage for insects and nest on the ground in the fantastic grassland habitat provided by the Grand Parade meadow. The breeding males' whistling calls can be heard floating over the meadows, announcing "Spring is Here!" 🪺🌾

⚠️ In order to protect our grassland birds during the upcoming breeding season, the Grand Parade Trail is closed to dogs between April 1 and September 15.

Birds nesting in the meadows and grasslands will sense your dog as a predator, even when on leash. This can stress the birds, leading to less productive or even failed nests. 🪹

Please enjoy some of the park's other trails with your furry friend! You can also stop by the visitor center to pick up your copy of the B.A.R.K. Ranger Activity book 🙂

https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/barkranger.htm (🔗link in bio)

Do your part by keeping your doggos out of the meadows during breeding season!

📸:
(1) A silhouette of a bird with a question mark above it.
(2) A black, white and yellow Eastern Meadowlark is revealed! Photo by Bill Moses
(3) No Dogs April 1 to September 15 on the Grand Parade Trail. The sign is a friendly reminder to choose another trail to walk with your dog! NPS Photo
(4) Illustration of a dog on leash with ears raised on high alert. NPS Graphic.
(5) Close up of a breeding adult eastern meadowlark with insects in its beak. Photo by Bill Moses.
(6) A mowed path through the Grand Parade meadow with lots of green vegetation growing tall. NPS Photo
(7) The meadow and grassland landscape of the Grand Parade provides excellent habitat for nesting birds. NPS Photo

#ValleyForge, #Spring, #BreedingBirds, #Dogs, #NationalParkService

Who's that pokém—mmm, bird! Who's that bird??🪽

It's the Eastern Meadowlark! At Valley Forge, meadowlarks forage for insects and nest on the ground in the fantastic grassland habitat provided by the Grand Parade meadow. The breeding males' whistling calls can be heard floating over the meadows, announcing "Spring is Here!" 🪺🌾

⚠️ In order to protect our grassland birds during the upcoming breeding season, the Grand Parade Trail is closed to dogs between April 1 and September 15.

Birds nesting in the meadows and grasslands will sense your dog as a predator, even when on leash. This can stress the birds, leading to less productive or even failed nests. 🪹

Please enjoy some of the park's other trails with your furry friend! You can also stop by the visitor center to pick up your copy of the B.A.R.K. Ranger Activity book 🙂

https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/barkranger.htm (🔗link in bio)

Do your part by keeping your doggos out of the meadows during breeding season!

📸:
(1) A silhouette of a bird with a question mark above it.
(2) A black, white and yellow Eastern Meadowlark is revealed! Photo by Bill Moses
(3) No Dogs April 1 to September 15 on the Grand Parade Trail. The sign is a friendly reminder to choose another trail to walk with your dog! NPS Photo
(4) Illustration of a dog on leash with ears raised on high alert. NPS Graphic.
(5) Close up of a breeding adult eastern meadowlark with insects in its beak. Photo by Bill Moses.
(6) A mowed path through the Grand Parade meadow with lots of green vegetation growing tall. NPS Photo
(7) The meadow and grassland landscape of the Grand Parade provides excellent habitat for nesting birds. NPS Photo

#ValleyForge, #Spring, #BreedingBirds, #Dogs, #NationalParkService

Who's that pokém—mmm, bird! Who's that bird??🪽

It's the Eastern Meadowlark! At Valley Forge, meadowlarks forage for insects and nest on the ground in the fantastic grassland habitat provided by the Grand Parade meadow. The breeding males' whistling calls can be heard floating over the meadows, announcing "Spring is Here!" 🪺🌾

⚠️ In order to protect our grassland birds during the upcoming breeding season, the Grand Parade Trail is closed to dogs between April 1 and September 15.

Birds nesting in the meadows and grasslands will sense your dog as a predator, even when on leash. This can stress the birds, leading to less productive or even failed nests. 🪹

Please enjoy some of the park's other trails with your furry friend! You can also stop by the visitor center to pick up your copy of the B.A.R.K. Ranger Activity book 🙂

https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/barkranger.htm (🔗link in bio)

Do your part by keeping your doggos out of the meadows during breeding season!

📸:
(1) A silhouette of a bird with a question mark above it.
(2) A black, white and yellow Eastern Meadowlark is revealed! Photo by Bill Moses
(3) No Dogs April 1 to September 15 on the Grand Parade Trail. The sign is a friendly reminder to choose another trail to walk with your dog! NPS Photo
(4) Illustration of a dog on leash with ears raised on high alert. NPS Graphic.
(5) Close up of a breeding adult eastern meadowlark with insects in its beak. Photo by Bill Moses.
(6) A mowed path through the Grand Parade meadow with lots of green vegetation growing tall. NPS Photo
(7) The meadow and grassland landscape of the Grand Parade provides excellent habitat for nesting birds. NPS Photo

#ValleyForge, #Spring, #BreedingBirds, #Dogs, #NationalParkService

Who's that pokém—mmm, bird! Who's that bird??🪽

It's the Eastern Meadowlark! At Valley Forge, meadowlarks forage for insects and nest on the ground in the fantastic grassland habitat provided by the Grand Parade meadow. The breeding males' whistling calls can be heard floating over the meadows, announcing "Spring is Here!" 🪺🌾

⚠️ In order to protect our grassland birds during the upcoming breeding season, the Grand Parade Trail is closed to dogs between April 1 and September 15.

Birds nesting in the meadows and grasslands will sense your dog as a predator, even when on leash. This can stress the birds, leading to less productive or even failed nests. 🪹

Please enjoy some of the park's other trails with your furry friend! You can also stop by the visitor center to pick up your copy of the B.A.R.K. Ranger Activity book 🙂

https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/barkranger.htm (🔗link in bio)

Do your part by keeping your doggos out of the meadows during breeding season!

📸:
(1) A silhouette of a bird with a question mark above it.
(2) A black, white and yellow Eastern Meadowlark is revealed! Photo by Bill Moses
(3) No Dogs April 1 to September 15 on the Grand Parade Trail. The sign is a friendly reminder to choose another trail to walk with your dog! NPS Photo
(4) Illustration of a dog on leash with ears raised on high alert. NPS Graphic.
(5) Close up of a breeding adult eastern meadowlark with insects in its beak. Photo by Bill Moses.
(6) A mowed path through the Grand Parade meadow with lots of green vegetation growing tall. NPS Photo
(7) The meadow and grassland landscape of the Grand Parade provides excellent habitat for nesting birds. NPS Photo

#ValleyForge, #Spring, #BreedingBirds, #Dogs, #NationalParkService

Who's that pokém—mmm, bird! Who's that bird??🪽

It's the Eastern Meadowlark! At Valley Forge, meadowlarks forage for insects and nest on the ground in the fantastic grassland habitat provided by the Grand Parade meadow. The breeding males' whistling calls can be heard floating over the meadows, announcing "Spring is Here!" 🪺🌾

⚠️ In order to protect our grassland birds during the upcoming breeding season, the Grand Parade Trail is closed to dogs between April 1 and September 15.

Birds nesting in the meadows and grasslands will sense your dog as a predator, even when on leash. This can stress the birds, leading to less productive or even failed nests. 🪹

Please enjoy some of the park's other trails with your furry friend! You can also stop by the visitor center to pick up your copy of the B.A.R.K. Ranger Activity book 🙂

https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/barkranger.htm (🔗link in bio)

Do your part by keeping your doggos out of the meadows during breeding season!

📸:
(1) A silhouette of a bird with a question mark above it.
(2) A black, white and yellow Eastern Meadowlark is revealed! Photo by Bill Moses
(3) No Dogs April 1 to September 15 on the Grand Parade Trail. The sign is a friendly reminder to choose another trail to walk with your dog! NPS Photo
(4) Illustration of a dog on leash with ears raised on high alert. NPS Graphic.
(5) Close up of a breeding adult eastern meadowlark with insects in its beak. Photo by Bill Moses.
(6) A mowed path through the Grand Parade meadow with lots of green vegetation growing tall. NPS Photo
(7) The meadow and grassland landscape of the Grand Parade provides excellent habitat for nesting birds. NPS Photo

#ValleyForge, #Spring, #BreedingBirds, #Dogs, #NationalParkService