Valley Forge National Historical Park is known for the history it holds about America. But two, new free programs for kids focus on the stories the Park holds about the environment.

During "Into the Forest," held the second Saturday of each month beginning in October, children will hike Mount Joy. As they trek through flora and fauna, they’ll learn forest structure and how to identify common trees and plants. Current threats to the forests at Valley Forge and their importance for a healthy environment will also be addressed.

Kids will learn that rocks can tell a lot, if you know how to listen, at "Stories in the Rocks," held the third Saturday of each month. This hike will teach the children about the rocks and minerals right beneath their feet, including what rocks reveal about the past. Children will also see the mastodon and saber-tooth cat fossils found at Valley Forge, and try to "read the rocks" for themselves during a visit to an old quarry.

The 90-minute programs, designed for children ages 6 to 12, will be held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., October through April. "Into the Forest" will meet at Artillery Park; "Stories in the Rocks" will meet at the Welcome Center. Pre-registration is required and program size is limited. Scout troops can also participate in these programs and work toward badge requirements.

Please call 610.783.1044 at least three days prior to the program to register.