The New Weis Center for Education, Arts & Recreation | 150 Snake Den Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456 | 973-835-2160
Owned and operated by the Highlands Nature Friends, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization
Support The New Weis Center by making a tax-deductible DONATION and receive special member benefits! Learn more
PROGRAMS & EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
Pre-registration and advance payment is required for most programs. Parking for program attendees is available near the main brick building.
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▶ Mondays, 9am-12pm: Sep 7; Sep 21; Oct 12: School Break Adventure Days
For 1st-5th grade
>Registration coming soon
▶ Sat, Sep 12 & Sat, Oct 10, 9am-12pm: Volunteer Day at Weis!
We welcome volunteers (scouts, community members, families, groups, clubs) to stop by and help with some much needed TLC in our gardens and grounds, including invasive species removal, spreading woodchips on pathways, mulching, pruning, litter pickup, gathering branches/sticks for campfires. No gardening experience necessary.
- Counts as community service and conservation hours for students and scouts
- Bring work gloves if you have them
- Suggested age: 8+; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- Volunteer Days are scheduled on the 2nd Saturday of each month, May-Oct
> No registration required, but please let us know if you are bringing a group (5 or more)
▶ Sundays, 10-11:30am: Sep 13; Oct 11 & Nov 8: Forest Bathing Sensory Walk & Foraged Tea
The practice of forest bathing means to immerse oneself in the forest and soak in the atmosphere through the senses. Today's walk at an easy pace will focus on connecting to nature through mindfulness, as we explore our senses and the present moment through short, guided, meditations and breathing exercises in the forest. Through this practice, we aim to deepen our connection to our mind, our body, and the life around us in nature. At the end of our walk, we'll sample a tea made from pine and spruce needles foraged on the Weis property, with some seasonal variations throughout the year. This tea is meant to show our gratitude and appreciation and is a way of tasting and taking in the land to further connect to it. Forest bathing has been shown to help decrease stress levels and anxiety, and to improve the immune system and symptoms of depression, to name a few benefits. Come explore a new way of walking through the forest!
- Led by Weis Lead Educator Lauren Lynch or Educator Chris Campbell
- Ages 13 to adult; under 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult
- $15 per person
▶ Mon, Sep 14, Thu, Sep 24, 10-11:30am: Nature Stories with Chris!
Join us as we gather for a fun and interactive nature storytime! We’ll sit together in our cozy "Strube Square" outdoor seating area to enjoy a story about the wonders of nature, read by Educator and Naturalist Chris. After the story, we’ll explore the surrounding area to discover and reinforce the theme, and finish with a simple nature-themed craft.
- This program is for all ages and is stroller-friendly
- Additional siblings may attend at a discounted rate, and children 2 and below are free
- All children must be accompanied by a registered parent/guardian
- Fee: $15 (1 adult + 1 child); $19 (1 adult + 2-3 children)
▶ Tuesdays, Sep 15-Oct 20, 1:30-4pm: Fall Homeschool Nature Series (6-weeks)
What happens in nature as summer turns to fall?
As the season moves from summer to autumn and the natural world slows down, nature still holds many fascinating discoveries. Our homeschool group will explore some of the transformations on the ground and in the sky. We’ll investigate plant life cycles, including the science behind the colorful foliage and seed dispersal, how the shorter days affect plant growth, and the harvest these plants provide. Lessons will incorporate hiking, nature observations, hands-on science activities, and creative writing and art. Join us as we learn, discover, and understand the new season!
Weekly Topics Include:
- Acorns and Seeds
- Equinox/Sunflowers
- Mushrooms
- Autumn Trees/Apples
- Changing Leaves
- Pumpkins and Gourds
▶ Sat, Sep 19, 1pm - Sun, Sep 20, 12pm: "Harmony in the Highlands" Autumn Overnight Nature Retreat
Join us for a restorative day of mindfulness, reflection, and peace followed by a fireside dinner and morning yoga outside. Stay overnight in our cute, rustic cabins or bring a tent and camp around the fire. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the New Jersey Highlands and 150 acres of forested land, this retreat is designed to help you reconnect—with nature, yourself, and the present moment.
Saturday: Throughout the day and into the evening, you'll be guided through a thoughtful selection of healing and grounding experiences, including:
🌳Forest Bathing
🍵Ethical Foraging
🎶 Reiki Meditation with a lovely Sound Bath with special guest Crystal Eshanov of Sage and Sound
🌀Aromatherapy Workshop
📔Nature Journaling
☯️Intention Setting
🔥Fireside Dinner
Sunday Morning:
🍳Continental Breakfast by the fire
🧘Morning Yoga
⭕Closing Circle
Whether you're looking to release stress, find clarity, or simply breathe deeper, this immersive retreat offers a space to slow down and realign.
▶ Saturdays, Sep 18, Oct 17, Nov 21, 10-11:30am: Walking Meditation & Reflection Walk
Join us for a gentle, mindful walk in nature as we immerse ourselves in our senses and ground into the present moment. Walking meditation is a mindful technique focused on being aware of each step. Originating from Buddhism, Taoism, and yoga, it has long complemented other practices to enhance awareness and promote inner clarity. Walking meditation offers a gentle approach to mindfulness, connecting breath, movement, and bodily sensations. Participants walk slowly and intentionally, with frequent stops, focusing on each step and inhalation to cultivate awareness in the present moment. This practice encourages participants to tune into their senses, noticing the feel of the earth beneath their feet, the sights around them, and the sounds in their environment. Through this sensory experience, individuals become grounded in their surroundings and nurture a sense of peace and belonging. By directing attention to these sensory details, walking meditation deepens self-awareness and reveals greater insight into one's thoughts and feelings. A portion of our time together will be dedicated to personal reflection and journaling.
- Led by Educator Crystal Eshanov
- Open to ages 18 and up
- Outdoor program; please dress accordingly. Shoes are required
- Pack water, a journal, and a pen/pencil
- No dogs please
> REGISTER NOW!
▶ Sun, Sep 20, 1-5pm: Citizenship in the World Merit Badge
Pre-requisites MUST be done beforehand; scout must bring proof of completion and we will review the requirements in class: #4c, #7a, #7b. Refer to badge handbook or the "About this event" on our Eventbrite page for details.
- Scouts must wear their uniform, closed toe shoes, AND bring a signed blue card (no exceptions)
- Guardians/troop leaders are welcome to wait onsite; free wifi is available.
- $40 per scout
▶ Sun, Sep 27, time tbd: Bird Migration Walk
Join our beloved Trustee Sarah for a forest and field nature walk as we witness birds who are on their incredible migration south! We will practice some bird ID, observe fall behaviors, and learn how these small songbirds can survive and navigate such a difficult annual journey.
- Open to ages 8 to seniors. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- The walk will be on our field and garden areas, and on our forest trails.
- Bring binoculars if you have them; we also have a limited supply available to borrow.
- No dogs please.
> Registration opens late August
▶ Sun, Sep 27, 1-5pm: Forestry Merit Badge
Pre-requisites MUST be done beforehand; scout must bring proof of completion and we will review the requirements in class: #5 a or b or c, #8. Refer to badge handbook or the "About this event" on our Eventbrite page for details.
- Scouts must wear their uniform, closed toe shoes, AND bring a signed blue card (no exceptions)
- Guardians/troop leaders are welcome to wait onsite; free wifi is available.
- $40 per scout
▶ Fri, Oct 2, 4:30-7pm: Teen Sunset Hike
Join us for a guided sunset hike as we hike through rocky terrain (approx 1.5 miles) to a viewpoint just in time for sunset. On our way back, we’ll visit nocturnal habitats and listen for wildlife that awakens after dark.
This program is just for Teens & Tweens!
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp
- The trails have some steep and rocky sections, so please wear boots or shoes with good tread.
- Refunds will be issued only if the program is cancelled due to weather.
>Registration coming soon
▶ Sat, Oct 3, 1-5pm: Landscape Architecture Merit Badge
Pre-requisites MUST be done beforehand; scout must bring proof of completion and we will review the requirements in class: #1, #5. Refer to badge handbook or the "About this event" on our Eventbrite page for details.
- Scouts must wear their uniform, closed toe shoes, AND bring a signed blue card (no exceptions)
- Guardians/troop leaders are welcome to wait onsite; free wifi is available.
- $40 per scout
▶ Sat, Oct 10, 1-2:30pm: New Weis Center History Walk & Talk
Join our Board member Karin Ahmed for a fascinating talk and walk about the history of our property! The 'Nature Friends of America' owned what is now The New Weis Center for almost 50 years, from 1920 to the 1960's, and built most of the structures on the property. Karin will share what she learned while researching The Nature Friends and the history of what was then known as Camp Midvale. We will look at the collection of documents, photos and other artifacts in The New Weis Center's "mini-museum", before heading outside for a walk around the property to see some of the remaining structures and discuss what camp life was like "back in the day".
- This program will include a gentle walk on mostly level terrain.
- Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult
- In case of bad weather the program will be rescheduled, or you may choose a refund.
▶ Sun, Oct 11, 1-5pm: Plant Science Merit Badge
Pre-requisites MUST be done beforehand; scout must bring proof of completion and we will review the requirements in class: #7, #8 option 3d (bring photos or sample); #8 option 3e. Refer to badge handbook or the "About this event" on our Eventbrite page for details.
- Scouts must wear their uniform, closed toe shoes, AND bring a signed blue card (no exceptions)
- Guardians/troop leaders are welcome to wait onsite; free wifi is available.
- $40 per scout
▶ 🎃 PUMPKIN CHUNKIN! 🎃
Join us for our favorite fall tradition at Weis: PUMPKIN CHUNKIN! Choose a pumpkin from our pumpkin patch, carve or decorate it at picnic tables in our scenic picnic grove, then launch it across the field with our mighty trebuchet. See how far it will fly - and if you can hit the target! This year we've also added a fun mini-scavenger hunt for more fall fun! Individuals and small groups should register for public programs via Eventbrite. Pumpkin Chunkin can be scheduled as a private program for scout troops or other groups, clubs or organizations (see below).
- We supply the pumpkins to carve/decorate and launch (1 per person), tools for carving, and stencils and paint markers for decorating. Additional pumpkins are available to purchase.
- Public programs are open to individuals, small groups (up to 10 people), families and friends! Great idea for a fall birthday party too.
- All ages welcome; under 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult.
- $18 per person
- Public Program Dates: Oct 17, 1pm; Oct 24, 10am; Oct 25, 1pm; Nov 1, 2pm
🎃Private Pumpkin Chunkin Programs 🎃
- Minimum fee to schedule a group program is $225 (up to 10 participants); $18 for each additional participant over 10
- Program works best with medium-large groups. We encourage small scout troops (under 10) to partner together, or to register for a public program.
- Small troops or groups may be scheduled with other small troops/groups or non-scout participants. Depending on your group size, we may be able to arrange a separate carving/decorating area and trebuchet upon request.
- No charge for teachers, group chaperones or scout troop leaders (not participating/launching)
> SCHEDULE a Private Pumpkin Chunkin, contact: staff@highlandsnaturefriends.org, or call 973-835-2160
▶ Sun, Oct 18, 1-4pm: Geocaching Merit Badge
Pre-requisites MUST be done beforehand; scout must bring proof of completion and we will review the requirements in class: #3 (five additional terms), #8d, #9. Refer to badge handbook or the "About this event" on our Eventbrite page for details.
- Scouts must wear their uniform, closed toe shoes, AND bring a signed blue card (no exceptions)
- Guardians/troop leaders are welcome to wait onsite; free wifi is available.
- $40 per scout
▶ Fri, Oct 23, 6-9pm: Almost Full Moon Night Hike + Bonfire! 🌕✨
Naturalist-guided night hike under the light of the full moon, with a bonfire at the end!
Come join us for a magical experience as we hike under the January Full Moon. Let's explore the Winter forest at night, allowing the light of the moon to guide us. Afterwards, we will gather around a bonfire to set intentions through a take-home nature craft. Let's howl at the moon and welcome in the new year.
- Moderate difficulty trail, with some steeper inclines and mini rock scrambles
- Approx. 3+ mile hike
- Wear closed toe shoes with good tread
- Bring micro-spikes/ice spikes for your shoes if you have them; we will also have a limited number available to borrow.
- Bring a low-light or red-light flashlight or headlamp.
>Registration coming soon
▶ Sat-Sun, Oct 24-25: Fun-Filled Fall Weekend at Weis!
Join us for a fun-filled Fall weekend at Weis! We will have a fall scavenger hunt, games, arts and crafts, and more on Saturday! Then, stay after sundown on Saturday night for a night of fright through our cabins and haunted trail. The bravest of them all can even stay overnight! The morning on Sunday, will consist of a walk all about the Birds of Prey and where they fly off to this time of year. Followed by our popular Pumpkin Chunkin Program where we decorate and carve pumpkins to launch in our field! Don’t miss out, it will be a hoot!
- Saturday 1pm-5pm (ages 3 and up)
- Activities, arts and crafts, Fall games and more in our field and picnic grove!
- Saturday 6pm-10pm (ages 13 and up)
- Weis' Spooky Stroll!
- Sunday (all ages)
- Birds of Prey Walk (10am-11:30am)
- Pumpkin Chunkin! (1pm-3pm)
>Registration coming soon
▶ Sun, Oct 25, 10am-11:30am: Birds of Prey Walk
>Registration coming soon
▶ Sun, Oct 25, 1-5pm: Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge
Pre-requisites MUST be done beforehand; scout must bring proof of completion and we will review the requirements in class: #3a, #4 a,b, #5, #7 a,b,c, #8. Refer to badge handbook or the "About this event" on our Eventbrite page for details.
- Scouts must wear their uniform, closed toe shoes, AND bring a signed blue card (no exceptions)
- Guardians/troop leaders are welcome to wait onsite; free wifi is available.
- $40 per scout
▶ Sun, Nov 1, time tbd: Fall Foliage Walk & Social
Join us for a naturalist-led nature walk as we learn about our trees and plants in our local forest while sipping on some foraged tea!
From the changing colors of the leaves to the tallest trees in the forest (Tulip Trees here in NJ!) plants are the backbone of any habitat and shape our landscapes and ecosystems. On this naturalist led easy-paced nature walk, we will discuss tree and plant identification and look at some of the interesting and important species in our Highlands forest, - and learn how those plant communities support wildlife!
- Outdoor program; please dress accordingly
- Non-refundable; in case of inclement weather, program will be rescheduled.
- All ages welcome, children 5 and below are free, all children must be accompanied with a registered parent/guardian.
>Registration coming soon
▶ Thu, Nov 5 & Fri, Nov 6, 9am-3pm: School Break Adventure Days
For 1st-5th grade
>Registration coming soon
▶ Coming in Dec: Winter Solstice Nature Retreat
For adults 18+
>Registration coming soon
▶ Mon-Dec 28 - Wed, Dec 30: Winter Adventure Days
For 1st-5th grade, signup for individual or multiple days
Programs at The New Weis Center with our Partners at TrailBound Project
- Fri, Sep 11, 5pm-10pm (drop-in anytime): Dirt Time!
- Sat, Sep 26, 9am-5pm: Map & Compass Navigation
- Sun, Sep 27, 9am-1:30pm: Fire Making
- Sun, Sep 27, 2:30-4:30pm: Drinking Water Treatment
- Fri, Oct 2, 5pm-10pm (drop-in anytime): Dirt Time!
- Sat, Oct 31 & Sun, Nov 1, 9am-5pm: Wilderness First Aid Certification (must attend both days)
EDUCATION, ARTS & RECREATION
Programs for individuals and groups of all ages
Education
- Public programs: guided nature walks and hikes, led byWeis staff, historical and culture programs, first aid classes and special events.
- Group programs: including field tripsfor schools, homeschoolers, rec departments and area camps.
- Nature focused day camps during thesummerand school breaks.
Arts
Performing Arts
Iron Mountain Stage Company, a local non-profit theatre company that has been performing continuously since 1993, makes Weis their permanent home for rehearsals and some performances. They present a spring and fall production, as well as fun public acting improv workshops.
Music
May-Sep: "Music at Midvale" Acoustic Open Mic! Join us near the old farmhouse for an afternoon of acoustic, outdoors music (originals and covers). Please bring your own refreshments and a folding chair. Smoking and alcohol are not permitted on the property.
> $5 per person, additional donations welcome! Signup to perform from 2:30-3:00pm; music starts at 3:00. NO registration required. Details andperformance guidelines
Recreation
Guided Nature Hikes - Led by our Educators & Naturalists. Public guided hikes are offered throughout the year, and can also be scheduled for private groups, party or special events. Hikes are led by a first aid certified staff member, and may focus on local history, flora, and fauna found along the trail.Learn more about hiking at Weis and in the adjacent Norvin Green State Forest.
Forest Bathing Walks - Led by our Lead Educator and Naturalist Lauren Lynch
Seasonal programs - Including Pumpkin Chunkin' (fall), Natural Wreath Making (fall/winter), Maple Sugaring (Feb/Mar), and Solstice/Equinox celebrations. Details and registration
Swimming is available at our neighbors and partners the Highlands Natural Pool, which is adjacent to our property. Experience a mountain-stream fed, chemical-free Olympic size pool in a beautiful, forested setting. Snack bar on premises.
Scouting
We are happy to welcome ALL Scout groups to The New Weis Center. We offer many programs for Scouts, including badge classes, service projects, camping and firecircles, and hosting special events. Please check our Scouting page for all the details and upcoming events!