While some students are thinking about where to go on vacation this fall break, a Western Carolina University student group is planning a community service project at one of nature’s wonders.

Last Minute Productions, WCU’s student-run entertainment and activity programming organization, is hosting an “alternative” fall break trip to Natural Tunnel State Park in Virginia from Friday, Oct. 4, through Tuesday, Oct. 8.

Participants will clear trees, put up fences and plant vegetation, while enjoying the natural beauty of the park. Some evenings will be spent reviewing educational materials or meeting with park staff.

Alternative break trips are based upon the philosophy that community service is an ethic that works best as a lifelong choice or commitment made by individuals. LMP offers a variety of service-orientated alternative trips during fall and spring break, as well as some weekends.

These trips are intended to challenge participants physically and mentally, and to teach leadership skills and social responsibility. This is a “substance-free” expedition, and participants are not allowed to bring alcohol or any illegal drugs on the trip.

Natural Tunnel, called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” by William Jennings Bryan, is 850 feet long and 100 feet high inside. It is the focal point of Natural Tunnel State Park, a park that offers visitors spectacular sights, swimming, camping, picnicking, hiking, a visitor center, an amphitheater and interpretive programs.

For more information, call LMP at 828.227.7479.