Get acquainted with a really big forest

Need an introduction to some of the area’s most spectacular fall foliage?

You’re in luck this weekend as the Algoma Highlands Conservancy is inviting cyclists, hikers and geocachers out to explore its 3,000-acre conservation forest north of Sault Ste. Marie.

The Sunday afternoon event was launched three years ago as a way to encourage those who might be intimidated by the size of the forest and the trail system is houses, said Jennifer Cross, the conservancy’s executive director.

“Also (we want people) to realize how great this area is and hopefully they will want to try to protect it and help us in our conservation efforts,” said Cross.

Algoma Highlands Conservancy, Sault Cycling Club, Voyageur Trail Association and Stokely Creek Lodge have teamed up to run the free event, which is geared toward ‘silent sport’ and the forest’s atmosphere or “calm, quiet beauty.”

It’s an introduction to the trail system that is free during the spring, summer and fall for cyclists and hikers to use.

Guided hikes, guided bike tours are available, or participants can explore on their own.

Geocaching is new this year.

The forest is home to at least three official geocaches, but event organizers have added five of their own for an afternoon scavenger hunt.

Nature activities will be available for the kids, and barbecue-style food will be for sale later in the afternoon ($12 for adults and $8 for kids 12 and under).

Organizers ask that those interested in food let them know by posting a message on the Facebook event page.

The event starts at Stokely Creek Lodge (194 Pickard Road) in Goulais River, where parking is available.

Doors open for registration at 1 p.m. and the hiking, biking and geocache scavenger hunts begin at 1:30 p.m.