Family Wildflowers & Butterflies
June 26-27, 2010
$150/adult, $75/child 3-13 years, 10% member discount applies
The ancient forest enjoys magnificent wildflower blooms mid-summer, and these flowers bring striking species of butterflies to Opal Creek. Join Opal Creek instructors for a weekend wxploring the wildflower diversity in the forest and learn about the many diverse butterfly species who pollinate these flowers. We will hike through the tall trees in search of Swallowtails, Angelwings, Painted Ladies and the elusive Mistletoe Hairstreak, Oregon's only old-growth dependent butterfly species. We will visit some of Opal Creek's butterfly hotspots and learn to identify these butterflies by sight.
Family Mammals
July 24-25, 2010
$150/adult, $75/child 3-13 years, 10% member discount applies
The 35,000 acres of undisturbed, ancient forest surrounding Opal Creek are excellent habitat for a variety of mammals from tiny voles to massive cougars. The workshop will be a mixture of field work in the forest and classroom time. We will learn about mammal characteristics in general and focus on mammals local to the area. In the forest, we will set live traps as we search the ground for mammal signs like tracks and scat. Learn about mammal adaptations through interactive family games. In the evening, we will view a slideshow of the more elusive mammals including canopy dwellers and large predators. All family workshops are kids focused, feature hands on activities, and are a great way for the whole family to enjoy Opal Creek.
Family Insects
August 28-29, 2010
$150/adult, $75/child 3-13 years, 10% member discount applies
Bring the whole family out for a weekend exploring the fascinating and often overlooked world of insects. We will search high and low, under rocks and in the water for the many different insect species that live at Opal Creek. Learn why they are important to all ecosystems and the specific roles they play in the Western Cascades. August is a great time of the year in Jawbone Flats. Time will be set aside to swim and snorkel in the cool pools of the Little North Fork of the Santiam River, further investigating the aquatic habitat of our local insects.
Family Backpacking
Sept 3-6, 2010
$220/adult, $120/child 10-17 years; 10% member discount applies
Have you always wanted to explore the ancient forests of Oregon more deeply but don't feel comfortable backpacking on your own? Bring your family and join our WFR certified staff to spend the last weekend of summer away from the crowds, walking through remote reaches of the Opal Creek Wilderness. Our first day we will hike over rugged terrain to arrive at our peaceful base camp. The rest of the weekend we will spend day hiking under the tall trees, swimming in the serene alpine lakes, and playing games in camp. Throughout the trip we will learn about the amazing ecology of Pacific Northwest forests and the conservation history of the Opal Creek area. It's just before the new moon, and you won't believe how many constellations will be visible so far from city lights. Much of Opal Creek remains untouched and the only way to see it is by foot.
Participants will hit the trail on Friday afternoon after an orientation in Jawbone. Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center will provide all food; participants should come with their own backpacking gear. A detailed list will be sent on registration. Anything you do not already own can be rented at an Oregon REI store.
Family Amphibians
September 25-26, 2010
$150/adult, $75/child 3-13 years, 10% member discount applies
Opal Creek's intact ancient forest and cool, clean water host the full diversity of Northwest forest amphibians. From the Pacific Giant Salamander, the largest terrestrial amphibian in North America, to the genetically unique ancient tailed frog, this workshop will examine the dozen amphibians that reside in Opal Creek's exceptional habitat. Join our instructors as we look deep into the clear pools and under the downed logs for these elusive critters. Tuition includes a copy of Opal Creek's self-published Field Guide to the Amphibians of Opal Creek for use during the weekend and for future amphibian investigation.