OPRD release – Silverton, Oregon— Enjoy seasonal crafts, guided hikes and nature education at the Silver Falls State Park Winter Festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 10 and 11. Discover the changes that winter brings to the park through educational activities and seasonal crafts. Visitors can take guided walks, learn about waterfalls in winter and animal tracks, build bird nesting boxes and bird feeders, create wreaths and decorate gingerbread cookies. Those who take part in four or more activities, earn a commemorative Silver Falls ornament. Most of the activities will be hosted at the South Falls day-use area except for the gingerbread cookie decorating, which will be at Smith Creek Village (same exit as the campground). All activities are free, but a $5 day-use parking permit is required. Annual state park parking permits, normally $30, are on sale for $25 in the month of December and are available at the park. In addition to the free daytime activities, Smith Creek Village will host a holiday-themed dinner each evening. Reservations are required and more information can be found at [smithcreekvillage.com/guest-experiences]smithcreekvillage.com/guest-experiences. For more information about the winter festival, visit the events calendar at stateparks.oregon.gov or call 503-874-0201.
