Opal Creek Expeditions: Watershed Navigation of Opal Creek

August 22-27

$420/ages 12-16

Circumnavigate the Opal Creek Wilderness area for a unique perspective of this entirely protected watershed. We will start at Opal Lake and hike along French Creek Ridge to Beachie Saddle. Spend the night blanketed under the starry sky, learning constellations and their stories. As we make our way around the watershed, we will explore the ecosystem, investigating connections between the lush forest and the pristine mounatin streams. You will learn about local flora and fauna as well as the rich conservation history as we dip into lakes and traverse steep ridges. We will learn safe wilderness travel skills, including cooking on a camp stove, packing for a backpacking trip, using a map, compass and GPS and practicing wilderness medicine. Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center will provide all the food; participants are responsible for their own gear.

Space is limited - many of our Opal Creek Expeditions have already filled! Call today to reserve a space: (503) 892-2782.

 

As was the case for many non-profits, 2009 was a financially challenging year for Opal Creek. We need your donations now more than ever. Every gift matters, every dollar counts - please help Opal Creek continue its vital work of dynamic, hands-on environmental education. Visit our membership page for more information and to make a donation today.

 

 

spotted owl

Did you know? 

Preserving the old growth mixed Douglas fir and hemlock forest that comprises the Opal Creek Wilderness area was crucial for protecting populations of the Northern Spotted Owl, Strix occidentalis caurina, which has very specific habitat requirements. Although we sometimes hear the distinctive call of this owl, it is rare to see one- so we’re very excited to share this photo, taken by Sandra Koike just past the parking lot a few weeks ago. You can clearly see the distinctive spotted pattern on its chest and the white feathering around its eyes. At up to 18 inches tall and a wingspan of up to 4 feet, this is one of the largest owls in North America; it is fiercely territorial and rarely migrates. In spite of their size, populations of spotted owl are still threatened by habitat loss, competition with expanding barred owl populations, and low reproductive rates.

 


Past Natural History Archives

This Season

We have a busy season planned for Jawbone Flats, with something for everyone. See below for more information on our education programs and cabin rental opportunities. 

Support Us!

Program fees do not cover all of our operation costs. We strive to maintain small group sizes to reduce impact on the forest.  As a result we must rely on generous donations from individuals and foundations to make up the difference.  The best thing you can do for Opal Creek is to become a member. 

     
        

Jawbone Journal

  • Spring Migration

    3/18/2010 11:47:42 AM

    by Kaola Swanson, Program Director   In less than two weeks, I will load up ...

  • A New Bridge Over Battle Ax

    3/4/2010 9:03:24 AM

    by Brian Campbell, Facilities Director The past week was definitely an exciting one for Adam ...