WTA Volunteers, thank you for another amazing year.
This event is part of our Volunteer Appreciation Week. If you’ve ever volunteered with WTA, this event is for you! Pick one (Lichen Walk or Intro to Campfire Songs) - both end up together for coffee, cider and donuts at the Hamilton Mt. Trailhead.
What's a lichen, you ask? Part mushroom, part algae, sometimes part other things, lichens are some of the coolest organisms you may never have noticed while you hike! Join us to revel in the magical and wondrous world of lichens and other nature nerdery!
About the Area: Beacon Rock's native name is "Che-Che-op-tin," which translates to "the navel of the world." Native Americans weren't far off in their comparison, since the 848-foot basalt column once formed the core, or belly, of an ancient volcano.
During the ice age, icebergs and flowing waters slowly carved away the softer exterior rock, leaving Beacon Rock sticking straight out of the north banks of the Columbia River. Lewis and Clark camped here on their way to the Pacific, and it was at Beacon Rock that they first noticed the tides affecting water levels in the Columbia River, more than 120 miles from the mouth. It was this team of explorers that gave the rock its modern name, though they were initially undecided on whether it should be "Beacon Rock" or "Beaten Rock."
What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.
Project Description: We will take a slow hike through the woods of Beacon Rock to notice the small things. Prepare to have your mind blown. Afterwards, we'll reconvene with the group who's been learning camp songs for coffee, cider, and donuts, and maybe a serenade from them!
Hiking Information: Hike will be no more than 1mi roundtrip
Schedule
8:55 AM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine
9:00 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then tour Beacon Rock to learn about lichens!
10:30 AM: Meet for snacks with the other crew who's been learning camp songs
11:00 AM: The end! Enjoy the rest of your day.
For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed
What it Takes to Do This Work Party
No experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity about the small things in the woods
Expect to walk slowly and take lots of breaks to look at things. Layers are a good idea.
Recommended for ages 10 and older; under 14 must be accompanied by an adult and a parental consent form must be signed for anyone under 18
What to Wear - Recommended:
Sturdy work or hiking boots
Warm and waterproof layers -- we will be less active than normal so it may take some extra work to stay warm
What to Bring
Your curiosity about lichens!
Rain jacket and pants
Extra warm clothing in case of wet or cold weather
A pack to carry your personal gear
A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!
Firearms and weapons are not allowed.
More Information
WTA's Trail Work Guide introduces the type of work you may do
Check out of full Schedule of Volunteer Appreciation Events
Contact us at volunteer@wta.org or 206.625.1367