Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space (FoHVOS) and Mercer County are excited to announce the return of the Ted Stiles Memorial Hike at Baldpate Mountain. This beloved community event, held annually in honor of former FoHVOS president Ted Stiles, celebrates his vision and dedication that led to the preservation of thousands of acres in Hopewell Valley, including Baldpate Mountain.
The 2025 hike will not only honor Ted Stiles but also celebrate the longstanding partnership between FoHVOS and Mercer County. This collaboration has resulted in numerous impactful restoration projects aimed at protecting and preserving the Mountain’s diverse ecological features.
This year, participants can choose from three themed hikes, each led by knowledgeable FoHVOS staff. All hikes will begin at 9 am and last approximately 90 minutes, focusing on different topics. After the hikes, attendees will gather at the historic lodge near the Baldpate mansion for coffee, donuts, and meaningful community discussions.
Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, May 4
- Time: 9:00 – 11:30 AM
- Location: Baldpate Mountain, Hopewell Township, NJ
Hike Descriptions:Hike #1: Stewardship Hike
Baldpate Mountain was a huge preservation success for Hopewell Valley and Mercer County – for its size, but also conservation values. Rare species, both plant and animal find refuge at the preserve. To best care for these species and their communities, the co-owners and managers of Baldpate collaborate on restoration planning initiatives, implementation, and their maintenance. Join the stewardship directors of FoHVOS and Mercer County on this hike to learn more about the two decades of collaborate conservation efforts on the mountain.
Hike #2: Guided Botanical Walk
Did you know there are 24 rare plant species documented at Baldpate Mountain? FoHVOS routinely monitors rare plants to track population status and better inform our stewardship efforts. Join FoHVOS Land Stewards Dana and Kaitlin on a trail walk to identify some of the many plants found at Baldpate and discuss the types of work FoHVOS does to protect them.
Hike #3: Birding the Baldpate Driveway
For nearly 20 years, birding the driveway of Baldpate has almost been its own rite of spring for our local nature enthusiasts. Join our Executive Director Jenn and local community scientist Jack, for a picturesque stroll and search for our colorful harbingers of spring, all the way to the summit of the mountain. In addition to filling our forests and souls with song, these neotropical migrants played an important role in the preservation of Baldpate. BYOB: Please bring your own binoculars.
Registration: Please register for the hike you plan to attend. All hikes begin at 9 am.
Join us for a morning of hikes, friendly conversation, and nature viewing as we honor Ted Stiles and celebrate the collaborative efforts that continue to protect Baldpate Mountain.
To register, please visit this LINK.
