Forest and Stream Ecology of the PNW   

Explore Mount St. Helens in person with an experienced guide as we uncover the geologic events leading to the 1980 eruption of the most active volcano in the Cascade Range. We will discuss what first shaped the mountain and the local and regional physiological reactions as this massive explosion shaped a landscape.
 
We will see first-hand how the ecosystem has recovered over the five decades since the catastrophic events that forever changed over 230,000 square miles of forest. 

The Silver Lake area where we will first meet is free to all participants, however as we travel through the national park, there may be additional fees for access. You will need to have transportation to the mountain and from site to site.

If you'd like to learn more about Mt St Helens and its history, you can take a class with the guide before you hike!

Step into the living history and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest on this guided ecological walk. We’ll begin at the historic Stump House—a hollowed cedar carved with springboard notches in 1890—using it as a lens to explore the environmental impacts and legacy of logging. From there, walk among towering 200‑year‑old Bigleaf Maples, explore the preserve’s wetland and stream ecology, and follow the landscape as it opens to the Hood Canal shoreline.

This experience blends natural science, local history, and storytelling for curious learners of all backgrounds. Dress for the weather and wear solid footwear as we will hike through the forest down towards the Hood Canal shoreline. The hike is offsite. Students will be emailed details of where to meet a few days prior to class.

This hike traverses 1,000 feet of elevation gain—with a spectacular summit reward waiting at the top with views of the Olympic Mountain range, Mt Tahoma & Mt Baker, and the Seattle Skyline.

As we climb through shifting forest layers and overlook the Puget Lowland, we will learn about the geologic history of the region, including how glaciers carved Green Mountain into its distinctive “whaleback” shape and shaped the surrounding terrains, including several deep fjords.

Come ready for hiking along elevation changes.  Bring ample water, and dress for whatever October weather the area has to offer that day.

This hike is located offsite and students are responsible for their transportation to and from the site. Registered students will be sent information about where to meet a few days before the hike.

Explore Kitsap County’s last remaining old growth forest at the Rhododendron Preserve.  This class will consist of an outdoor hike of approximately 1.5 miles (round trip) down a deeply forested valley to the banks of one of the County’s most pristine and productive salmon streams. 

You’ll see local Chum and Coho salmon completing their epic life cycle, observing their migration and spawning behaviors up close.