Free Field Trip

Join us for an outdoor adventure at Lewis River Falls, where we'll explore the stunning geology and diverse plant life of this magnificent area. We will learn together and then have the whole afternoon for play.

What You'll Learn

• Uncover the geological history of Lewis River Falls.

• Learn why this is a sacred waterfall and it’s role for native peoples.

• Waterfall swimming

What to Bring

• Swimming Suits

• Water bottle and lunch

• Camera

Explore the fascinating world of sustainable construction with a hands-on field trip to learn how a hempcrete house is built! This educational experience combines environmental science, innovative building techniques, and practical demonstrations to showcase how hemp can revolutionize the way we create homes.

• Understand the unique properties of hempcrete, a natural building material made from hemp, lime, and water. Learn why it’s valued and creates a healthy house.

• Discover how the material is packed into molds and how it works with timber framing.

• Learn about hempcrete’s environmental benefits, including its ability to capture carbon dioxide, regulate indoor humidity, and reduce energy costs.

• See how hempcrete integrates with other natural materials to create energy-efficient and eco-friendly homes.

We will have another opportunity for children that are old enough and interested, to participate in building a hempcrete playhouse.

Join us for an immersive journey into the world of wild plant foraging, where you'll learn the essential skills and knowledge needed to safely and sustainably harvest nature's bounty. This class is perfect for beginners who are eager to connect with nature, discover edible and medicinal plants, and practice responsible foraging techniques.

What You'll Learn

• Identification Skills: Learn to correctly identify a variety of edible and medicinal plants and understand their key characteristics and habitats.

• Seasonal Foraging: Discover which plants are available in different seasons and how to plan your foraging activities accordingly.

• Sustainable Harvesting: Learn how to harvest plants responsibly, ensuring the long-term health of plant populations and ecosystems.

• Ethical Considerations: Gain insights into the ethical considerations of foraging, including respecting wildlife habitats and minimizing your impact on the environment.

What to Bring

• Nature Journal

• A basket or bag for collecting plants

• Lunch

Location: Mt. Hood

Handcraft personalized ice cream bowls and spoons with master potter Kate!

What to expect:

• Learn the basics of working with clay, including hand-building techniques

• Shape and design your own unique pinch pot with step-by-step guidance

• Learn about the process of drying, glazing, and firing your creation

• Explore different decorative techniques to personalize your ice cream bowl and spoon

Location: Hood River, OR

Join us for a hands-on field trip creating self-sustaining terrariums! Participants will learn about the water cycle, plant care, and the balance of a closed ecosystem while designing their own glass garden to take home.

• Learn about the layers of a healthy terrarium (drainage, soil, plants, and décor).

• Discover how plants recycle water and oxygen in a self-contained environment.

• Choose from a variety of small plants, mosses, and decorative elements.

• Assemble and personalize your own terrarium.

• We will provide plants, rocks, soil, some decorative elements.

Bring:

• Participants should bring their own glass container—such as a large mason jar or a similar-sized vessel. Please avoid oversized containers to ensure everyone has enough supplies.

• Extra special decorative elements.

Meet the cows who make your cheese! At this behind-the-scenes dairy experience, students will connect directly to the source of their food with hands-on milking, feeding, and learning.

Learn about:
– Milking Cows: Get hands-on with the milking process
– Feeding Time: Help deliver hay and grain to hungry cows and calves
– Dairy Life: Explore the rhythm of life on a small-scale working creamery
– Ethical Animal Care: Discover how happy cows make better milk

This trip is rich with real-life experience and builds respect for animals, farmers, and the food we eat.

What to Bring:
– Closed-toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting messy
– Water bottle
– Curiosity and a gentle spirit for meeting animals

Join us for a magical morning adventure into the lush Columbia River Gorge as we hike to the breathtaking Wahclella Falls. This 1 mile, easy-to-moderate trail ends with a breathtaking waterfall with places to play in the water and explore.

As we walk, we'll talk about:

• The vibrant life in the canyon

• Plant identification

• Signs of past fire and the forest's natural healing

Bring:

• Good walking shoes

• Snacks

• Water bottle

• Optional: swim suit, nature journals

Note:

• Parking can be challenging, so allow for extra time if you have to park up the road.

• There are cliffs on this trail, so we will keep little ones close.

Join us for a hands-on workshop where we’ll create Fairy Butter, a magical blend of fresh butter, herbs, and edible flowers. You will make cream into butter, then mix in your own selection of herbs and blossoms to create a beautiful, flavorful spread to take home.

This workshop is a fun, sensory-rich activity that connects us to the simple magic of food and nature.

Location: Hood River

What is Included:

• All butter making supplies.

• Please bring additional edible flowers and herbs if you would like!

Join us for a hike to Latourell Falls, an accessible and family-friendly adventure in the Columbia River Gorge! On this 2.4-mile loop trail, you will:

• Hear a Chinook story about this waterfall.

• Learn about the geology of the Gorge and how waterfalls like Latourell have been shaped by ancient lava flows.

• Discover the natural beauty of Latourell Falls, a 249-foot waterfall cascading over basalt cliffs covered in moss.

• Observe local wildlife and flora, including ferns, mosses, and native plants along the forested trail, walking along relatively flat, well-maintained paths.

• Soak in the negative ions as we explore the lower and upper falls.

Please bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes suitable for a moderately easy trail.

• Water and snacks for a scenic break near the falls.

Location: Latourell Falls - Columbia Gorge

Step into the mysterious and fascinating world of poisonous plants as we explore how nature protects itself. This gentle, hands-on field trip invites children to observe, wonder, and learn how to recognize plants that ask us to keep a respectful distance.

This is put on by Hoyt Arboretum.

Learn about:

– Plant Warnings: Discover how certain plants protect themselves with toxins, thorns, or bitter taste.
– Observation Walk: Search for poisonous plants along the trail and learn how to identify them safely.
– Look-Alikes: Compare poisonous plants with helpful or edible ones that look similar.
– Respectful Distance: Practice nature safety and care through quiet observation and presence.

This field trip nurtures awareness and quiet confidence, helping children build a respectful relationship with the wild.

Join us for a meaningful visit to a village site of the Clatsop-Nehalem Confederated Tribes in Cannon Beach. Together, we’ll walk the land and listen to stories from a tribal representative about the history, culture, and continued presence of the Indigenous people of this region.

We’ll learn about traditional lifeways, seasonal rhythms, and the relationship between land and identity—and reflect on what it means to be guests on this land today.

After our time with the tribal representative there will be optional beach play time.

All proceeds will go to the Clatsop-Nehalem Confederated Tribes.

Experience the tranquility and beauty of a lavender farm tour. Stroll through endless rows of vibrant, fragrant lavender blossoms, learning about the different varieties and their unique properties. Did you know that some lavender is actually a stimulant?!

We will learn about the history and uses of lavender, from essential oils and culinary delights to natural remedies and crafts. We will make whole plant lavender oil and learn why it’s an important medicine to have on hand.

We will end our time with our picnic lunches and free play time on the farm.

This field trip is a sensory delight, offering a peaceful escape into nature and a deeper appreciation for this versatile and beloved plant.

What is Included:

• Lavender activity and supplies.

Location: Hood River, OR

Join us at Lost Lake for a medicinal plant walk and dive into the wonders of nature's remedies. Families will learn about the local plants that have been used for healing for generations. You'll get hands-on experience identifying these plants and learn to make basic remedies with them. If you nature journal, bring those along! We will end our time together with lunch on the lake and swimming.

In this class, you'll:

• Learn about local native medicinal plants

• Go on a nature walk and learn to identify them

• Forage for plants to make your own medicines at the lake

• Plan on spending the afternoon playing in the lake. It’s a great place to catch newts or fish. There are boat rentals and ice cream.

Location: Lost Lake, Oregon

Free Member Field Trip

Join us for a joyful morning under the summer sun as we gather together to pick sweet, sun-ripened cherries straight from the tree! This field trip is a simple celebration of seasonal abundance, connection to the land.

We'll meet at a local cherry orchard where families are welcome to pick at their own pace. There’s no cost to attend—just pay for whatever you choose to take home and enjoy our time together.

Children will have the chance to:

• See how fruit grows and ripens on the tree

• Visit the pigs and other animals in the petting zoo area.

• Taste different cherry varieties right from the branch

• Learn about caring for fruit trees and harvesting by hand

Step back in time and walk in the footsteps of pioneers on the historic Oregon Trail at the Philip Foster Farm. Located on the original Barlow Road, this living history site offers an immersive experience of 1800s pioneer life through hands-on learning, storytelling, and old-fashioned hard work!

• Explore pioneer life through engaging, hands-on stations.

• Understand the significance of the Barlow Road and its role in Oregon Trail migration.

• Appreciate the skills, resilience, and community spirit of early settlers.

Learn about:
– Corn Grinding: Try your hand at making cornmeal the old-fashioned way.
– Crosscut Sawing: Work in pairs to operate a traditional two-person saw.
– Log Cabin Building: Assemble a miniature log cabin using real logs.
– Pioneer Laundry: Scrub and rinse using washboards, tubs, and elbow grease.
– Blacksmith Demonstration: Watch a blacksmith in action and learn about essential frontier skills.

This field trip blends education with experience, inviting students to embody the grit and resourcefulness of Oregon’s early settlers.

What to Bring:
– Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
– Water

Join us for a hands-on field trip where we’ll explore the ancient art of wet felting! In this simple and satisfying process, we’ll wrap raw wool fibers around soap bars and smooth river stones, then use warm water and gentle friction to transform them into beautiful, functional works of art.

Felted soap makes a lovely natural exfoliator, and the felted wool helps the soap last longer. Felted stones are grounding to hold and make beautiful natural objects or gifts.

We will:

• Learn the basics of wet felting

• Create your own felted soap bar or felted river stone

• Choose from a variety of colorful wool roving

• Take home a useful, handmade item infused with warmth and intention

What to Bring:

• A bar of soap you love

• Lunch if you would like to picnic

All felting materials are provided.

Location: Westmoreland Park - by the water spigot/bathrooms 

Handcraft personalized clay pots with master potter Kate!

What to expect:

• Learn the basics of working with clay, including hand-building techniques

• Shape and design your own unique pot with step-by-step guidance

• Learn about the process of drying, glazing, and firing your creation

• Explore different decorative techniques to personalize your pot

Location: Hood River, OR

Come discover the fascinating world of fermented foods with a behind-the-scenes tour of a local tempeh-making facility!

Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food made by fermenting soybeans into a firm, savory cake packed with plant-based protein and gut-friendly benefits.

During our visit, we’ll:

• Tour the production area and see how tempeh is made from start to finish

• Learn about the fermentation process and the important role of microbes

• Explore the health and sustainability benefits of tempeh as a food

• We will end with a potluck in the back patio! Grilled tempeh, and veggies provided, bring something to share if you can.

Bring

• travel plate/utensils

• water bottle

This is a unique opportunity to see how an ancient food is made.

Location: 1902 nw 24th Ave Portland OR 97210

Join us for a gentle, creative morning at Whittaker Ponds Nature Park—a once-abandoned junkyard now transformed into a thriving natural sanctuary in the heart of Portland. This hidden gem along the Columbia Slough is home to a variety of wildlife, native plants, and rich local history, including its connection to the Neerchokikoo village of the Chinook people.

We’ll begin with a short introduction to the park's ecology and restoration story before setting off on a guided nature walk. Along the way, we’ll observe birds like wood ducks and great blue herons, identify native plants such as cottonwood and willow, and tune into the quiet rhythms of this unique wetland ecosystem.

After our walk we’ll:

Nature Journaling – With sketchbooks in hand, students will capture plants, animals, and landscapes through drawing and observation, noting colors, shapes, textures, and movement.
Environmental Art – Using natural materials like leaves, twigs, and stones, we’ll create temporary land art—mandalas, patterns, or sculptures—as an expression of gratitude and connection to place.

What to Bring:
– Art supplies: sketchbooks, pencils, colored pencils, watercolors, clipboards
– Field guides or reference materials (optional)
– Sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks, and a first-aid kit

This field trip invites students to slow down, look closely, and experience the healing and inspiring power of nature through art.

IF YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO COME, PLEASE SIGN UP AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Only 15 spaces available.

Discover the beauty and mystery of She Who Watches (Tsagaglalal), a famous petroglyph that connects us to the stories and wisdom of the Columbia River's first peoples. This field trip offers students a unique opportunity to learn about the ancient cultures, art, and the spiritual significance of this sacred landmark.

Experience Includes:

• A guided history lesson exploring the cultural and spiritual significance of She Who Watches, its connection to local tribes, and the stories it represents.

• A guided walk along the historical trails near the petroglyph, offering a chance to see the landscape as it has been for centuries.

• An interactive discussion on the importance of protecting and respecting sacred sites, emphasizing the relevance of indigenous culture today.

Location: Near Lyle - Columbia River Gorge, WA

Celebrate the sweetness of the season with a fun and hands-on strawberry picking and jam-making field trip! This experience combines the joy of harvesting fresh strawberries with the simple art of turning them into delicious homemade jam.

What to Expect:

• Strawberry Picking: Head to the fields to pick your own fresh, ripe strawberries while learning about how they’re grown and harvested.

• Jam-Making Workshop: After picking, we will turn part of your harvest into delicious strawberry jam. Each participant will leave with their own jar of jam to take home.

• Tasting and Fun: Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a jam-tasting and picnic!

Location: Hood River

What is Included:

• A small jar of jam to take home.

It’s lambing season! Join us for a visit to a local sheep farm that focuses on raising sheep for meat rather than wool. During this experience, we’ll learn about the unique characteristics of meat sheep breeds, how they differ from wool-producing sheep, and what goes into raising healthy, sustainable flocks.

Explore the daily routines of sheep farming, including feeding, grazing, and caring for lambs. The farmer will share their expertise on breed selection, the role of sheep in sustainable agriculture, and the journey from pasture to plate.

This hands-on visit offers a deeper appreciation for the work and care involved in raising sheep. Perfect for those curious about sustainable farming, animal husbandry, or simply wanting to connect with rural life.

This hands-on experience will take you through the journey of growing, harvesting, and preparing fresh indigo plants. You will learn about the history and cultural significance of indigo dyeing, then roll up your sleeves and get creative with natural dyeing techniques.

In this class, you'll:

• Learn the history and cultural significance of indigo dyeing

• Discover the process of extracting dye from fresh indigo plants

• Practice techniques to create beautiful, unique patterns

• Take home your handcrafted indigo-dyed dish towels

Location: Hood River, OR

Join us for an exciting adventure to Smith Rock, one of Central Oregon’s most iconic natural wonders. Known for its dramatic cliffs and towering spires, Smith Rock offers a rich landscape of geological history and breathtaking views. On this field trip, we’ll explore the rock formations and the plants and animals that life there.

As we hike around the area, we’ll talk about the stories and legends of the Indigenous peoples who have long revered the site, as well as the diverse plant and animal life that thrive in this rugged environment. You’ll have the opportunity to reflect and connect with nature, marveling at the beauty and timelessness of Smith Rock.

Location: Central Oregon (outside Redmond)

Come join us for a fun and relaxed wildflower walk through the stunning Columbia Gorge! We’ll explore the colorful world of native wildflowers as we stroll through meadows and through the trees.

During our walk, we’ll:

• Learn about the different wildflowers that call the Gorge home, and how to spot them in the wild.

• Hear some cool stories and fun facts about these plants, from how they’ve been used throughout history to what makes them so special.

• See how wildflowers fit into the larger ecosystem, providing food for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

• Depending on when we visit, you’ll see a variety of blooms, from early spring flowers to vibrant summer blossoms.

What to Bring:

• Lunch

• Walking shoes and long pants - because it’s also tick season.

This relaxing and fun pottery workshop, where you’ll craft your very own unique candle holder. Whether you’re a beginner or have experience with clay, this class offers the perfect opportunity to create something both beautiful and functional.

What to Expect:

• Learn basic pottery techniques such as slab building, coiling, and carving to shape your candle holder.

• Add your own flair with decorative patterns, textures, or cut-outs that let the candlelight shine through in unique ways.

• We’ll provide everything you need, including clay, tools, and inspiration.

• After shaping your piece, it will be fired and glazed in your chosen finish. Completed candle holders will be available for pickup after the firing process.

Step back in time and explore the rich history of Fort Vancouver, a landmark that brings the Pacific Northwest's past to life! This field trip offers a unique opportunity to learn about the fur trade, early settler life, and the cultural interactions that shaped the region.

What to Expect:

• Explore the reconstructed fort and hear stories about its role as a bustling hub of trade and cultural exchange in the 19th century.

• Engage with costumed interpreters who demonstrate historic crafts, trades, and daily activities.

• Try your hand at age-appropriate activities like making a trade item or learning basic pioneer skills.

• Plenty of room to run and play!

Join us for a fun and educational adventure at an alpaca farm. This exciting field trip is a great chance to learn about these gentle creatures and explore the art of working with alpaca fiber.

What to Expect:

• Alpaca Encounter: Our tour will begin with a visit to the alpacas, where we’ll learn about their history, where they come from, and why they’re so special. Have you ever wondered if alpacas really spit? We’ll answer that and more as we explore the daily life and care of these adorable animals!

• Fiber Studio Experience: Next, we’ll head over to the farm’s Fiber Studio, where we’ll see how alpaca wool is transformed into beautiful products. Watch a live demonstration of spinning yarn on a spinning wheel, learn how to weave a scarf or blanket on a loom, and discover the art of felting.

• Farm Store: Before we leave, make sure to check out the farm store, where you can browse a variety of fun and cozy alpaca products for all ages.

What to Bring:

• Lunch

Location: Cook, WA

Dive into the art of cheese making with this fun and interactive mozzarella-making workshop! This hands-on experience will guide you through the simple yet magical process of turning milk into delicious, fresh mozzarella.

During this workshop, you’ll:

• Discover the science behind cheesemaking, including how curds and whey form and the essential ingredients and tools needed.

• Roll up your sleeves and make your own batch of fresh mozzarella. You’ll stretch, shape, and finish your cheese to perfection!

• Sample your creation alongside some tasty pairings like fresh bread, olive oil, and herbs.

• Leave with a simple recipe and the confidence to make mozzarella at home.

Location: Hood River

WE DIDN’T HAVE ENOUGH SIGN UPS IN TIME SO THIS IS BEING RESCHEDULED.

Embark on an exciting journey through geology at the Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals in Hillsboro! This field trip will immerse participants in the fascinating world of rocks, minerals, and gemstones. During our visit, we’ll:

• Explore incredible exhibits showcasing rare minerals, sparkling crystals, and fossils.

• Learn how rocks and minerals are formed and their importance in everyday life.

• Discover Oregon’s unique geological history and see treasures from around the world.

• Participate in hands-on activities to identify different types of rocks and understand their properties.

The Rice Museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate, offering a world-class experience perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Location: Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals, Hillsboro, OR