A challenging, variety-packed hike on the Appalachian Trail will be held Sunday, June 8 by the WWW Hiking Club and New Jersey Audubon's Weis Ecology Center. The event, led by volunteer guide Don Weise, is open to experienced hikers and physically fit individuals with a sense of fun and adventure. Like all WWW Club hikes, the pace is fast and the terrain is steep. Beginning along the state line in Sussex County's Onion Country,participants will climb Pochuck Mountain with views of High Point. Hikers will also traverse an amazing, 1.5 mile, volunteer-built boardwalk across wetlands, Pochuck Creek foot bridge as well as a pasture of Black Angus cows. Finally, an optional climb up Wawayanda Mountain's Stairway to Heaven will yield breathtaking views for those seeking an extra challenge.

Call (973) 835-2160 for information, directions and to reserve your place on the hike. Group size is limited and pre-registration is required. Cost is $8 for non-members, with a $3 discount for NJ Audubon members. All proceeds benefit educational programs for the not-for-profit New Jersey Audubon Society/Weis Ecology Center. Dress for the weather, wear appropriate shoes and bring lunch and water in a daypack. Hike should be completed by 2:30 p.m.

New Jersey Audubon Society (NJAS) fosters environmental awareness and a conservation ethic; protects New Jersey's birds, animals, and plants (especially endangered and threatened species); and promotes the preservation of New Jersey's valuable natural habitats. NJAS is a privately supported, not-for-profit, statewide membership organization. Founded in 1897, it is one of the oldest independent Audubon societies. With more than 20,000 caring and committed members, NJAS is one of the largest and most effective conservation organizations in the state. Find the NJAS center nearest you by visiting www.njaudubon.org or by calling NJAS Headquarters at 908-204-8998. The Weis Ecology Center is one of nine staffed centers operated by the New Jersey Audubon Society Specializing in full-day and residential environmental education programs for schools, scouts and other youth and adult groups, Weis is also recognized for its popular public programs for adults, kids and families. The Weis Visitors Center, open during business hours, houses their turtle, snakes, seasonal exhibits and an NJAS Nature Store featuring field guides, bird feeders and accessories, kid stuff, regional trail maps and more.