Margaret Sinclair, of Enterprise, shows a ladybug she found at the top of the East Moraine while on a free nature walk hosted by Wallowology.

WALLOWA COUNTY — The Wallowology Discovery Center’s weekly nature walks might be just the thing to lighten resurging pandemic blues. Even wearing a face mask, a hike in the fresh air and natural beauty of Wallowa County is sure to brighten an otherwise disheartening day.

The center’s free two-hour Discovery Walks are offered twice a week through Sept. 24.

On Fridays, easy to moderate guided hikes depart from trailheads at 9 a.m. These Discovery Walks are limited to 10 people and pre-registration is required by emailing info@wallowology.org.

The Hurricane Creek Trail (meet at the end of Hurricane Creek Road) and BC Falls Trail (meet at the end of Wallowa Lake Highway 351) are both moderate. Ask about the required Northwest Forest Pass when you register.

The West Fork Trail walk is easy and family friendly. Meet at the end of Wallowa Lake Highway 351.

Here’s the schedule for September’s Friday hikes:

Sept. 3, Hurricane Creek Trail

Sept. 10, West Fork Trail

Sept. 17, BC Falls Trail

Sept. 24, Hurricane Creek Trail

Saturday walkers gather at 9 a.m. in the Wallowa Lake Lodge lobby. Pre-registration isn’t needed for these family friendly hikes exploring the area around Wallowa Lake.

All hikes are guided, led by Judy Swank or Charla Lower. Masks are required. Participants are asked to wear sturdy walking shoes and bring water but leave their dogs at home.

For more information, stop by the Wallowology Natural History Discovery Center, 508 N. Main St., Joseph, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, email info@wallowology.org or go to www.wallowology.org.