The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and the Association of Friends of the Wichitas will be conducting "Fall Foliage Walks” on November 9 and 16.  Interpreters take participants for a one-mile walk through a forested canyon.  Participants will enjoy the chance to view the autumn colors of red, yellow, orange and brown as leaves begin to change with the season.

Reservations are required and are taken on a first-come, first-serve basis beginning Monday, November 4, 2013. Tour participants will meet at the Refuge Visitor Center located at the intersection of Highways 49 and 115.  Visitors may obtain a Refuge leaflet and map from one of the dispensers located at each of the five entrances.

Participants should wear sturdy shoes and bring water to drink. Wheelchair access is available if requested at time of reservation. Each hike will last approximately 2 ½ - 3 hours.  Due to the length of the program, children must be at least eight (8) years of age to participate.  A $5.00 per person reservation fee will be collected at the beginning of the tour. Reservations will be retained until ten minutes prior to departure on each date.  After that time, stand-bys will be accepted.

Interested persons are advised that the Refuge's public interpretive program is intended for individuals and family units of six persons or less.  Only one family's reservation will be accepted per telephone call.  We regret we cannot offer group tours but invite all interested individuals to call for reservations which are taken on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Reservations must be made by telephoning the Refuge Visitor Center on the following line only:  (580) 429-2151, beginning Monday, November 4 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

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