What’s Happening

Lo que está sucediendo

Help out, learn, build community and have fun!

¡Ayuda, aprende, construye una comunidad y diviértete!

Southwest Washington has so many opportunities to connect with nature. See the event calendar below for a wide range of opportunities with our regional partners.

Not seeing what you are looking for or want to schedule something special with a group? Contact the partner directly. Some information on this page may be out of date, so connect with the Partner for the most up to date information. Let’s get outside!

El suroeste de Washington ofrece muchísimas oportunidades para conectar con la naturaleza. Consulta el calendario de eventos para conocer la amplia gama de oportunidades con nuestros socios regionales.

¿No encuentra lo que busca o desea programar algo especial con un grupo? Ponte en contacto directamente con el socio. Es posible que parte de la información de esta página no esté actualizada; por ello, contacta con el socio para obtener la información más reciente. ¡Salgamos al aire libre!

June is coming up and that means celebrating Get Outdoors Day!

Communities and partners across southwest Washington are getting ready to host you, your family and friends with a variety of outdoor activities to celebrate the beautiful Pacific Northwest region we know and love. Join us!

Get Ready for Get Outdoors Day!
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  • LCNN is excited to share our Partner’s events, click each event for more detailed information - check with event host for most up to date information (LCNN does not lead these events).

  • NEW! For events that sound super fun but are just outside southwest Washington are listed as ROAD TRIPs.

Filtering by: “hiking”
20th Annual Ridgefield NWR Youth Photo Contest
May
13
to Aug 3

20th Annual Ridgefield NWR Youth Photo Contest

friends_of_ridgefield_nwr

Get those cameras ready! 📸✨ In honor of our Photo Contest's 20th Anniversary, we’re teaming up with @prophotosupply and @asmporegon to make this year’s photo contest bigger than ever.

We’ve officially split the competition into TWO separate contests:

🏆 20th Annual Ridgefield NWR Photo Contest
Our flagship contest is back! This year, the "Youth" category is now for High School age students.
🔗 Link in bio to enter!

🐣 The NEW Fledgling Refuge Photo Contest
Exclusively for students in 4th - 8th Grade! We can’t wait to see the Refuge through your eyes.
🔗 Link in bio to enter!

📅 Deadline: August 3, 2026
📍 Location: All photos must be taken at Ridgefield NWR.

Show us your best shots of the wildlife, landscapes, and spirit of Ridgefield! 🦅🌷

View Event →
Wednesday Wanders with the Water Resources Education Center
May
27

Wednesday Wanders with the Water Resources Education Center

  • Water Resources Education Center 4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver WA (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the City’s Educators on a Wednesday morning guided nature walk where we will explore the rich ecosystems along the Columbia River and adjacent wetland.

As we wander, we’ll discover native plants, search for wildlife, and learn how these vibrant waterways support life all around us. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned nature lover, there’s always something new to see and learn on the trail.

This program is great for families with youth ages 6 and older as well as adults who want to get out and wander!

Be prepared to walk 2 miles on paved pathways, unpaved wetland trails, and along sandy beaches.

Registration is required.  Sign up today!

If the event becomes full, please contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.

View Event →
NEW Silver Trails Community Walk
May
27

NEW Silver Trails Community Walk

Parks Foundation of Clark County is with Community in Motion and Vancouver Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services at Luepke Senior Center to launch the new Silver Trails launches May 27!

PFCC is excited to kick off this new walking program for adults 65+ in partnership w/ Vancouver Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services & Community in Motion. The first walk takes place at Orchards Park, w/ monthly outings all summer featuring easy 1–2 mile walks through some of our community’s beautiful parks & trails.

  • Transportation included

  • Easy-paced walks

  • Scenic local destinations

  • Great company

  • Email sean@parksforclark w/ questions.

  • REGISTRATION Required with the City of Vancouver (use the code listed in the table below for the date and location of your choice)

View Event →
Veterans' Trail Work Party at Whistle Punk Day Work Party
May
30

Veterans' Trail Work Party at Whistle Punk Day Work Party

Join WTA for the first of three 2026 work parties tailored to those with a military background.

These work parties give veterans and service members from all branches a chance to form-up, build camaraderie, enjoy the outdoors, and maintain hiking trails. This is an opportunity for everyone to hang out, share stories, and even earn volunteer credit for those still in service.

Assistant Crew Leaders who are veterans are encouraged to register.

About the Area: Not sure what a whistle punk is? This hike will teach you! The lovely 1.2-mile interpretive loop trail takes you through several ecosystems including lush old growth and beautiful meadows, and will introduce you to some logging relics. Though the trail has seen better days, with a little love we can help restore it to its former accessible status.

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.

Project Description: Many veterans have successfully transitioned from military service into civilian life, but many others still face challenges. Additionally some members are nearing the end of their service obligation, service contract, or retirement date. This is a unique opportunity to share "TTPs" and hopefully help someone successfully transition. Your crew leader for this work party is also a 25-year veteran.

The work for the day will include using manual or power tools to remove vegetation, as well as digging tools to maintain the walking surface of the trail.

Hiking Information

Expect to hike no more than 1.2mi total, as long as the loop is.

Schedule

  • 8:30 AM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine (please make sure you've signed your digital waiver the the day or night before)

  • 8:35 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:30 PM: Sign out after enjoying refreshments at the trailhead

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Special Event

This is one of three WTA work parties geared toward past and present military members.

If the work party location requires or is made easier by camping the night prior, your crew leader will contact you.

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours on uneven terrain

  • 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 -

Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring:

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

Join Work Party

View Event →
Stewardship Saturday at Columbia Springs
May
30

Stewardship Saturday at Columbia Springs

  • Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)  (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

This event is perfect for volunteers who want to spend a couple of hours working outside in Columbia Springs' beautiful natural area.

Projects typically include removing invasive species, trail maintenance, and improving the accessibility and safety of the site. Columbia Springs will provide tools, gloves, and guidance.

Volunteers are asked to bring a water bottle, gloves (if you have them), wear closed-toe shoes, and dress in outdoor/work-appropriate clothing. 

Register in advance: www.columbiasprings.org/volunteer/ 

Spots are limited! 

Volunteer Requirements: Children under age 14 are welcome to volunteer with their parent or guardian. Teens under age 18 can volunteer independently with their guardian’s signed permission.  

Questions? Email jamie@columbiasprings.org 

View Event →
Birds and Blooms of Burnt Bridge Creek
May
30

Birds and Blooms of Burnt Bridge Creek

  • Burnt Bridge Creek Greenway-Stewart Glen Lakeshore Dr & Bernie, Vancouver, WA 98663 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the City of Vancouver staff for a springtime walk along Burnt Bridge Creek, where nature comes alive in May.

We will learn how to identify the flowering native plants along the trail while listening for the songs of migrating song birds. Learn how the health of the water plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems, from the flowers along the creek’s edge to the birds passing through.

Registration required. Sign up today!

  • This walk is suitable for adults and families with youth ages 8 and older.

  • All minors must be accompanied by an adult.

  • Expect to walk 2.5 miles on mostly paved and flat pathways. 

  • Stairs descend from the street parking to the trailhead.

View Event →
Hiking Clinic - NW Association of Blind Athletes
May
30

Hiking Clinic - NW Association of Blind Athletes

Everybody is an Athlete: At NW Association of Blind Athletes, we believe that any individual who is blind or visually impaired is an athlete and deserves the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity.

NWBA programming is available for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Do you have a sport or activity that you want to get involved with or pick up again? We have a variety of sports available throughout the year.

Register as an Athlete: To ensure you are registered as an athlete in the correct area, please email programsteam@nwaba.org.

Volunteer to support: NWABA is an athlete-centered, volunteer driven organization. Submit the registration form Volunteer Registration

Get Involved With NWABA! If you’d like to be involved with NWABA as an athlete, volunteer or just want to learn more, please contact us and we’ll reach out to you shortly.

View Event →
Cedar Creek Grist Mill Bread Day
May
30

Cedar Creek Grist Mill Bread Day

  • 43907 NE Grist Mill Road Woodland, Washington (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Cedar Creek Grist Mill for Bread Day!

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a historical, water-powered, grain-grinding mill. Volunteers provide demonstrations and bags of fresh-milled flour and cornmeal to guests. Read more

Grist Mill Events: The Grist Mill hosts many free special events during the year — such as the popular cider press — and they all include some good eats! Take a look at our special event list.

Find Events

What will you see at the mill? Our volunteers work the mill, answer questions about the old style milling process and welcome visitors from around the globe. School field trips and senior tours are scheduled for weekdays and the mill is open to visitors on weekends. You can watch the millers mill grain the way it was done in 1876, and take home a bag of fresh flour or cornmeal.

View Event →
ROAD TRIP - Tandem Bike Clinic - NW Association of Blind Athletes
May
31

ROAD TRIP - Tandem Bike Clinic - NW Association of Blind Athletes

  • Call to confirm time & location in Portland, OR (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Everybody is an Athlete: At NW Association of Blind Athletes, we believe that any individual who is blind or visually impaired is an athlete and deserves the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity.

NWBA programming is available for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Do you have a sport or activity that you want to get involved with or pick up again? We have a variety of sports available throughout the year.

Register as an Athlete: To ensure you are registered as an athlete in the correct area, please email programsteam@nwaba.org.

Volunteer to support: NWABA is an athlete-centered, volunteer driven organization. Submit the registration form Volunteer Registration

Get Involved With NWABA! If you’d like to be involved with NWABA as an athlete, volunteer or just want to learn more, please contact us and we’ll reach out to you shortly.

View Event →
First of the Month Bird Walk
Jun
1

First of the Month Bird Walk

vancouver.audubon

Spring birding with the Vancouver Audubon Society!

Check the VAS web page for event locations and details for this trip.

Bird Walks are meant to be a casual, local morning of birding. They are a great time to enjoy birds with others, find new areas to visit, and/or work on bird identification by sight and sound or to practice your eBird app with help when needed. These walks are usually easy to join or depart at any time during the morning, no commitment to participate in the entire walk if you have limited time.

Registration is strongly encouraged to make sure you can stay in the loop on updates such as those caused by unpredictable weather this time of year. In order to sign up visit Vancouveraudubon.org/bird-walks-field-trips or tap the link in our bio and navigate to "Bird Walks and Field Trips."

Register: Cindy at vas@vancouveraudubon.org
The Vancouver Audubon Society team can't wait to see you there!

View Event →
WNPS Wildflower Hike - Falls Creek Falls
Jun
4

WNPS Wildflower Hike - Falls Creek Falls

Join the Washington Native Plant Society for this wonderful hike along Falls Creek to Falls Creek Falls and back. 

This is a 4-mile out and back hike with an elevation gain of about 750’.  Besides the trees and shrubs, we will see any number of shade loving wildflowers.  As a bonus we will have lunch at the falls, which is one of the largest falls in southern WA. This is a joint hike with the Suksdorf Chapter (WNPS) and the Portland Chapter (NPSO) 

Contact Ron Klump at klumpron@gmail.com to sign up for the hike or for more information.

Skamania County, WA. Exact location provided with sign up. 

From WTA on-line guide (route is not accessible, lots of narrow paths, adjacent drop offs, roots and rocks make trail tread uneven in many places)

View Event →
National Trails Day! - Celebrate with Fee Free day in Gifford Pinchot NF
Jun
6

National Trails Day! - Celebrate with Fee Free day in Gifford Pinchot NF

This national event is celebrated statewide, regionally and locally. Join local events to get outside and enjoy trails (both on land and water). Refer to the other events on the calendar for specific information!

View Event →
Birding Walk at Ridgefield NWR
Jun
6

Birding Walk at Ridgefield NWR

Join Ron Escano for a birding walk at the Ridgefield NWR1

Ron has years of experience guiding local birding groups. Whether you are new to birding, are looking to sharpen your skills, or just hope to find a group to bird with, Ron is a great person to spend a morning with. His pace is relaxed, but thorough, making sure everyone has seen or heard each species.  Ron will help new birders focus on key identification points to build their bird knowledge while sorting through the nuances of sparrow calls for more advanced birders.

Upcoming walks meet at the Carty Unit of the Refuge at 8 am and are limited to 15 people. These generally until noon but you are welcome to stay as long or short as works for you. Walks are free but the $3 refuge daily fee does apply. For more information about the fee and rules of the refuge click here

  • May 2nd

  • June 6th

  • July 4th (TBD)

  • August 1st

Volunteers make it possible to offer public naturalist-led walks about a variety of topics. The following opportunities are listed by walk leader and topic.

For questions and to sign up for the following opportunities send an email to email RidgefieldVolunteer@fws.gov with the following information: 

  1. Name, date, and site of the walk.

  2. Names of all participants.

  3. Phone number.

If a walk is listed as "FULL", you can still email to request to be put onto the waitlist for that walk.

For groups looking for guided tours see the Education Page

Questions that are not answered here or just can't get something to work? Call our office at 360-887-4106. 


View Event →
Gifford-Pinchot National Trails Day: Blue Lake Trail Improvement
Jun
6

Gifford-Pinchot National Trails Day: Blue Lake Trail Improvement

  • Mount St. Helens National Monument Headquarters Parking lot (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Gifford Pinchot National Forest invites the public to participate in a trail cleanup or trail work party as we celebrate National Trails Day in events designed to leave trails better than we find them as well as celebrate with a Fee-Free Day!

National Trails Day was established by the American Hiking Society in 1993 and occurs annually on the first Saturday in June. It brings together federal land managers, partners, and volunteers to celebrate trails and accomplish trail stewardship projects to ensure they are safe, well-maintained, easy-to-follow and accessible.

Additionally, the Forest Service is designating June 6, 2026, as an additional recreation Fee-Free Day to the 2026 calendar to celebrate National Trails Day, meaning all standard amenity recreation sites on Forest Service lands will be at no cost to the public. For all 2026 Fee-Free Days on National Forest System lands and information, please visit our website.
(Fee Free Days applies only to standard amenity recreation fees and does not waive expanded amenity fees, concessionaire charges, reservation fees, special recreation permit fees, or third-party costs unless separately authorized.)

National Trails Day Events on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest:

  • Coldwater Lake Trail Work Party:
    Where: Coldwater Lake Boat Launch
    When: June 6th from 9am-3pm
    Join the Northwest Trail Alliance on the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument for a day of trail work. For additional information see: Coldwater Lake Trail Work Party event page.

  • Blue Lake Trail Improvement:
    Where: Blue Lake Trail, (Meet at the Mount St. Helens National Monument Headquarters Parking lot).
    When: June 6th from 8:30am – 4pm.
    Help the U.S. Forest Service with some routine trail maintenance. Directions/maps will be provided prior. For more information see: National Trails Day Events.

  • National Trails Day at Wind River Arboretum -Work Party:
    Where: Wind River, Stabler, WA 98610.
    When: June 6th from 9am – 1 pm.
    Join the Washington Trails Association and other Trail Maintenance organizations to give back on National Trails Day. The work party will primarily focus on using digging tools to create a smooth (and wider) walking surface. For more information see: National Trails Day @ Wind River Arboretum.

  • Trans-Cascadia /NMA 2026 Work Party 1:
    Where: NF-23, Randle, WA 98377.
    When: June 11- June 14.
    Trans-Cascadia and the Northwest Motorcycle Association (NMA) are cohosting the first two work parties of 2026 consisting of multi-day campouts focused on improving multiple use singletrack trails through comprehensive maintenance for the enjoyment of all. For more information see: National Trails Day Events.

For other National Trails Day events in your area see the American Hiking Society: https://americanhiking.org/national-trails-day/find-an-event/

The Forest Service-managed trail system, at more than 165,000 miles, is the largest public trails system in the United States. In 2025, volunteers and partners accounted for more than 60% of all trail maintenance accomplishments (nearly 26,000 miles).

(Photo Source: Washington Trails Association)

View Event →
Gifford-Pinchot National Trails Day: Wind River Arboretum - Work Party
Jun
6

Gifford-Pinchot National Trails Day: Wind River Arboretum - Work Party

The Gifford Pinchot National Forest invites the public to participate in a trail cleanup or trail work party as we celebrate National Trails Day in events designed to leave trails better than we find them as well as celebrate with a Fee-Free Day!

National Trails Day was established by the American Hiking Society in 1993 and occurs annually on the first Saturday in June. It brings together federal land managers, partners, and volunteers to celebrate trails and accomplish trail stewardship projects to ensure they are safe, well-maintained, easy-to-follow and accessible.

Additionally, the Forest Service is designating June 6, 2026, as an additional recreation Fee-Free Day to the 2026 calendar to celebrate National Trails Day, meaning all standard amenity recreation sites on Forest Service lands will be at no cost to the public. For all 2026 Fee-Free Days on National Forest System lands and information, please visit our website.
(Fee Free Days applies only to standard amenity recreation fees and does not waive expanded amenity fees, concessionaire charges, reservation fees, special recreation permit fees, or third-party costs unless separately authorized.)

National Trails Day Events on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest:

  • Coldwater Lake Trail Work Party:
    Where: Coldwater Lake Boat Launch
    When: June 6th from 9am-3pm
    Join the Northwest Trail Alliance on the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument for a day of trail work. For additional information see: Coldwater Lake Trail Work Party event page.

  • Blue Lake Trail Improvement:
    Where: Blue Lake Trail, (Meet at the Mount St. Helens National Monument Headquarters Parking lot).
    When: June 6th from 8:30am – 4pm.
    Help the U.S. Forest Service with some routine trail maintenance. Directions/maps will be provided prior. For more information see: National Trails Day Events.

  • National Trails Day at Wind River Arboretum -Work Party:
    Where: Wind River, Stabler, WA 98610.
    When: June 6th from 9am – 1 pm.
    Join the Washington Trails Association and other Trail Maintenance organizations to give back on National Trails Day. The work party will primarily focus on using digging tools to create a smooth (and wider) walking surface. For more information see: National Trails Day @ Wind River Arboretum.

  • Trans-Cascadia /NMA 2026 Work Party 1:
    Where: NF-23, Randle, WA 98377.
    When: June 11- June 14.
    Trans-Cascadia and the Northwest Motorcycle Association (NMA) are cohosting the first two work parties of 2026 consisting of multi-day campouts focused on improving multiple use singletrack trails through comprehensive maintenance for the enjoyment of all. For more information see: National Trails Day Events.

For other National Trails Day events in your area see the American Hiking Society: https://americanhiking.org/national-trails-day/find-an-event/

The Forest Service-managed trail system, at more than 165,000 miles, is the largest public trails system in the United States. In 2025, volunteers and partners accounted for more than 60% of all trail maintenance accomplishments (nearly 26,000 miles).

(Photo Source: Washington Trails Association)

View Event →
Gifford-Pinchot National Trails Day: Coldwater Lake Trail Work Party
Jun
6

Gifford-Pinchot National Trails Day: Coldwater Lake Trail Work Party

The Gifford Pinchot National Forest invites the public to participate in a trail cleanup or trail work party as we celebrate National Trails Day in events designed to leave trails better than we find them as well as celebrate with a Fee-Free Day!

National Trails Day was established by the American Hiking Society in 1993 and occurs annually on the first Saturday in June. It brings together federal land managers, partners, and volunteers to celebrate trails and accomplish trail stewardship projects to ensure they are safe, well-maintained, easy-to-follow and accessible.

Additionally, the Forest Service is designating June 6, 2026, as an additional recreation Fee-Free Day to the 2026 calendar to celebrate National Trails Day, meaning all standard amenity recreation sites on Forest Service lands will be at no cost to the public. For all 2026 Fee-Free Days on National Forest System lands and information, please visit our website.
(Fee Free Days applies only to standard amenity recreation fees and does not waive expanded amenity fees, concessionaire charges, reservation fees, special recreation permit fees, or third-party costs unless separately authorized.)

National Trails Day Events on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest:

  • Coldwater Lake Trail Work Party:
    Where: Coldwater Lake Boat Launch
    When: June 6th from 9am-3pm
    Join the Northwest Trail Alliance on the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument for a day of trail work. For additional information see: Coldwater Lake Trail Work Party event page.

  • Blue Lake Trail Improvement:
    Where: Blue Lake Trail, (Meet at the Mount St. Helens National Monument Headquarters Parking lot).
    When: June 6th from 8:30am – 4pm.
    Help the U.S. Forest Service with some routine trail maintenance. Directions/maps will be provided prior. For more information see: National Trails Day Events.

  • National Trails Day at Wind River Arboretum -Work Party:
    Where: Wind River, Stabler, WA 98610.
    When: June 6th from 9am – 1 pm.
    Join the Washington Trails Association and other Trail Maintenance organizations to give back on National Trails Day. The work party will primarily focus on using digging tools to create a smooth (and wider) walking surface. For more information see: National Trails Day @ Wind River Arboretum.

  • Trans-Cascadia /NMA 2026 Work Party 1:
    Where: NF-23, Randle, WA 98377.
    When: June 11- June 14.
    Trans-Cascadia and the Northwest Motorcycle Association (NMA) are cohosting the first two work parties of 2026 consisting of multi-day campouts focused on improving multiple use singletrack trails through comprehensive maintenance for the enjoyment of all. For more information see: National Trails Day Events.

For other National Trails Day events in your area see the American Hiking Society: https://americanhiking.org/national-trails-day/find-an-event/

The Forest Service-managed trail system, at more than 165,000 miles, is the largest public trails system in the United States. In 2025, volunteers and partners accounted for more than 60% of all trail maintenance accomplishments (nearly 26,000 miles).

(Photo Source: Washington Trails Association)

View Event →
WTA’s summer hike & storm damage updates for Western WA
Jun
9

WTA’s summer hike & storm damage updates for Western WA

Join the Washington Trails Association and special guests for a webinar on Tuesday, June 9 from 6–7 p.m. where they will share: 

  • What to expect for your summer hikes in the Western Cascades

  • How WTA and land managers are working to restore outdoor access

  • How damage to trails and outdoor places affects local towns 

  • How you can help trails and lands get the care they need

 Register for this online webinar to learn more: SIGN ME UP

 This webinar is a special opportunity to hear directly from three experts with insider knowledge and unique perspectives on the state of our public lands: 

  • Erin Uloth, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest’s supervisor

  • Dan Rankin, mayor of Darrington, WA

  • Jaime Loucky, WTA’s chief executive officer

If you aren’t able to join us live, register today and we’ll send you the webinar recording.

Thank you for being part of a community that shows up when trails need them most.

View Event →
Mount Adams Trail Jamboree and Campout! Day Work Party with WTA
Jun
12

Mount Adams Trail Jamboree and Campout! Day Work Party with WTA

What could be better than a weekend of stewardship in the Mount Adams Ranger District?

Each day will start with an opportunity to tend the trails near Trapper Creek-- and will end with a campout complete with s'mores and plenty of good company. Feel free to bring your family, and join us for one, two, or all three days!

These work parties will be opened for registration on April 10th around 4pm.

** If you are a WTA volunteer Crew Leader and want to help, please reach out to SW Regional Coordinator Stasia Honnold, shonnold@wta.org**

About the Area: The Mount Adams Ranger District is in the eastern part of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and includes the Mount Adams, Trapper Creek, and Indian Heaven Wilderness areas as well as the Lewis River Recreation Area. From old growth to second growth forest, wetlands, low and high elevation meadows, glaciers, and low and high elevation lakes, this area has it all!

What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! Volunteer on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or all three. No experience is necessary.

Project Description: Each morning, we will split into several different crews to work on several trails in the area. You will start at Camp Howe to get organized, then caravan to the work location. The work will include using cutting tools (including power tools if fire precaution levels permit) to remove vegetation from the trail corridor, using saws to remove downed trees, using digging tools to fix the walking surface of the trail, and using digging tools to clear drainage.

Please register for the specific day(s) you are planning to volunteer, and we will split into separate crews for each day onsite.

Hiking Information: Each day will be different depending on how the work goes, and you will be able to self-select into a crew with an expected level of exertion that matches your available energy. Be prepared for options ranging from a hike of 1.5 miles round trip to a hike of 4.5 miles round trip over hilly terrain.

Camping Information: We will have a large camping area set up at Camp Howe. You are welcome to camp the day before and after your stewardship; trailers, campers, and tents all welcome.

There is no potable water onsite, though there is a nearby stream from which you can filter or treat water.

Schedule

  • 8:30 AM: Be ready to meet the crew. Please make sure your electronic waiver has already been signed before the work party!

  • 8:35 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:30 PM: The end! Relax and, if you're camping, spend the afternoon soaking up the area.

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Special Event:

We will have a campfire and s'mores bar on both Friday and Saturday evening (attendance optional). There will be lawn games (attendance also optional). You provide your own food; we will provide a memorable experience!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours each day on uneven terrain

  • 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

Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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!

  • Your camping equipment if you are planning to stay overnight

  • Enough water for however long you are planning to be present (or a way to treat water from a nearby stream)

  • Enough food for however long you are planning to be present

  • Any medications you need for the duration of your stay

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

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Forest Canopy Walk at Plas Newydd
Jun
12

Forest Canopy Walk at Plas Newydd

  • 33415 NW Lancaster Rd. Ridgefield, WA 98642 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“If you pay attention, you can tell time by the forest canopy—twigs and seeds, branches and leaves marking seasons with color, fullness, sway.”  – Abby Braithwaite, A Portrait of the Artist as a Crone Tree. 

Canopy Time walks are mostly monthly walks/rolls/rides on Plas Newydd Farm (register at this link). Hosted by Abby Braithwaite and David Morgan (and some surprise guests), these adventures give us the chance to explore some of the most beautiful places on the farm, and provide a deeper opportunity to feel the rhythms of the land, observe the comings and goings of migratory birds, watch the bud and bloom of native and invasive plants, swat mosquitoes, and dodge raindrops! 

Part nature journaling, part phenological record-keeping, these explorations are a great way to spend more time out on the land than some of our workshops allow. 

Bring your journal, your sketchbook, your camera and your senses. 

Suggested Donation of $10 collected on the farm. We’ll take cash, check, Venmo or a smile, if cost is a barrier! 

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Birding walk @ Ridgefield NWR
Jun
13

Birding walk @ Ridgefield NWR

Join Robert Vanderkamp for a Birding Walk at the Ridgefield NWR!

Before moving here from Michigan, Robert led bird walks as the President of his Audubon Chapter for 17 years.  He has been watching birds for most of his adult life and lives by the motto “care and share”. He loves talking to people about birds and is excited to host bird walks at the Carty Unit every second Saturday of the month. We will post these a few months at a time to accommodate any needed changes in the schedule. 

Upcoming walks meet at the Carty Unit of the Refuge at 8 am and are limited to 12 people. These generally last two to three hours but you are welcome to stay as long or short as works for you. Walks are free but the $3 refuge daily fee does apply. For more information about the fee and rules of the refuge click here

  • June 13th

  • July 11th

  • August 8th


Volunteers make it possible to offer public naturalist-led walks about a variety of topics. The following opportunities are listed by walk leader and topic.

For questions and REGISTER for walks send an email to email RidgefieldVolunteer@fws.gov with the following information: 

  1. Name, date, and site of the walk.

  2. Names of all participants.

  3. Phone number.

If a walk is listed as "FULL", you can still email to request to be put onto the waitlist for that walk.

For groups looking for guided tours see the Education Page

Questions that are not answered here or just can't get something to work? Call our office at 360-887-4106

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Mount Adams Trail Jamboree and Campout! Day Work Party with WTA
Jun
13

Mount Adams Trail Jamboree and Campout! Day Work Party with WTA

What could be better than a weekend of stewardship in the Mount Adams Ranger District?

Each day will start with an opportunity to tend the trails near Trapper Creek-- and will end with a campout complete with s'mores and plenty of good company. Feel free to bring your family, and join us for one, two, or all three days!

These work parties will be opened for registration on April 10th around 4pm.

** If you are a WTA volunteer Crew Leader and want to help, please reach out to SW Regional Coordinator Stasia Honnold, shonnold@wta.org**

About the Area: The Mount Adams Ranger District is in the eastern part of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and includes the Mount Adams, Trapper Creek, and Indian Heaven Wilderness areas as well as the Lewis River Recreation Area. From old growth to second growth forest, wetlands, low and high elevation meadows, glaciers, and low and high elevation lakes, this area has it all!

What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! Volunteer on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or all three. No experience is necessary.

Project Description: Each morning, we will split into several different crews to work on several trails in the area. You will start at Camp Howe to get organized, then caravan to the work location. The work will include using cutting tools (including power tools if fire precaution levels permit) to remove vegetation from the trail corridor, using saws to remove downed trees, using digging tools to fix the walking surface of the trail, and using digging tools to clear drainage.

Please register for the specific day(s) you are planning to volunteer, and we will split into separate crews for each day onsite.

Hiking Information: Each day will be different depending on how the work goes, and you will be able to self-select into a crew with an expected level of exertion that matches your available energy. Be prepared for options ranging from a hike of 1.5 miles round trip to a hike of 4.5 miles round trip over hilly terrain.

Camping Information: We will have a large camping area set up at Camp Howe. You are welcome to camp the day before and after your stewardship; trailers, campers, and tents all welcome.

There is no potable water onsite, though there is a nearby stream from which you can filter or treat water.

Schedule

  • 8:30 AM: Be ready to meet the crew. Please make sure your electronic waiver has already been signed before the work party!

  • 8:35 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:30 PM: The end! Relax and, if you're camping, spend the afternoon soaking up the area.

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Special Event:

We will have a campfire and s'mores bar on both Friday and Saturday evening (attendance optional). There will be lawn games (attendance also optional). You provide your own food; we will provide a memorable experience!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours each day on uneven terrain

  • 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

Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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!

  • Your camping equipment if you are planning to stay overnight

  • Enough water for however long you are planning to be present (or a way to treat water from a nearby stream)

  • Enough food for however long you are planning to be present

  • Any medications you need for the duration of your stay

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

View Event →
Adult Nature Identification Walk at Steigerwald NWR
Jun
13

Adult Nature Identification Walk at Steigerwald NWR

Join Fort Vancouver Regional Library for a guided nature walk through Steigerwald National Wildlife Refuge and discover how to identify local plants and animals with naturalist Rebecca Lexa.

Accommodations: Library events and programs are open to the public and provided at no cost. Special accommodations may be requested using our Disability Accommodation Request Form no later than 15 days prior to the event.

Los eventos y programas de la biblioteca están abiertos al público y se brindan sin costo. Se pueden solicitar adaptaciones especiales utilizando nuestro formulario de solicitud de adaptaciones para personas con discapacidades (en inglés) hasta 15 días antes del evento.

Особые условия могут быть запрошены с помощью нашей формы запроса на предоставление условий для людей с инвалидностью не позднее чем за 15 дней до мероприятия.

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Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Flag Day
Jun
14

Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Flag Day

Explore federal Public Lands across the U.S. for free today!

In honor of Flag Day, there are no entrance fees to federal public lands. Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the U.S. flag by the Continental Congress on that day in 1777, honoring American unity, freedom, and patriotism through displays of the flag, parades, and patriotic ceremonies.

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.

America the Beautiful Lands Pass

Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.

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Mount Adams Trail Jamboree and Campout! Day Work Party with WTA
Jun
14

Mount Adams Trail Jamboree and Campout! Day Work Party with WTA

What could be better than a weekend of stewardship in the Mount Adams Ranger District?

Each day will start with an opportunity to tend the trails near Trapper Creek-- and will end with a campout complete with s'mores and plenty of good company. Feel free to bring your family, and join us for one, two, or all three days!

These work parties will be opened for registration on April 10th around 4pm.

** If you are a WTA volunteer Crew Leader and want to help, please reach out to SW Regional Coordinator Stasia Honnold, shonnold@wta.org**

About the Area: The Mount Adams Ranger District is in the eastern part of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and includes the Mount Adams, Trapper Creek, and Indian Heaven Wilderness areas as well as the Lewis River Recreation Area. From old growth to second growth forest, wetlands, low and high elevation meadows, glaciers, and low and high elevation lakes, this area has it all!

What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! Volunteer on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or all three. No experience is necessary.

Project Description: Each morning, we will split into several different crews to work on several trails in the area. You will start at Camp Howe to get organized, then caravan to the work location. The work will include using cutting tools (including power tools if fire precaution levels permit) to remove vegetation from the trail corridor, using saws to remove downed trees, using digging tools to fix the walking surface of the trail, and using digging tools to clear drainage.

Please register for the specific day(s) you are planning to volunteer, and we will split into separate crews for each day onsite.

Hiking Information: Each day will be different depending on how the work goes, and you will be able to self-select into a crew with an expected level of exertion that matches your available energy. Be prepared for options ranging from a hike of 1.5 miles round trip to a hike of 4.5 miles round trip over hilly terrain.

Camping Information: We will have a large camping area set up at Camp Howe. You are welcome to camp the day before and after your stewardship; trailers, campers, and tents all welcome.

There is no potable water onsite, though there is a nearby stream from which you can filter or treat water.

Schedule

  • 8:30 AM: Be ready to meet the crew. Please make sure your electronic waiver has already been signed before the work party!

  • 8:35 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:30 PM: The end! Relax and, if you're camping, spend the afternoon soaking up the area.

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Special Event:

We will have a campfire and s'mores bar on both Friday and Saturday evening (attendance optional). There will be lawn games (attendance also optional). You provide your own food; we will provide a memorable experience!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours each day on uneven terrain

  • 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

Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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!

  • Your camping equipment if you are planning to stay overnight

  • Enough water for however long you are planning to be present (or a way to treat water from a nearby stream)

  • Enough food for however long you are planning to be present

  • Any medications you need for the duration of your stay

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

View Event →
Silver Star Mountain via Ed's Trail + Indian Pits Hike with Mazamas
Jun
14

Silver Star Mountain via Ed's Trail + Indian Pits Hike with Mazamas

Join the Mazamas for a hike up Silver Star Mountain, that may be awash in flowers or could be partially buried in snow one week before Father's Day. We can't know this when I'm scheduling the hike months earlier. But either way, if skies are clear we'll have views of volcanoes near and far, and as a bonus we'll get a little scramble (may need to use our hands) and walk through a rock arch. I've had every kind of weather on this hike, from rainy walks on snow to gorgeous days with volcano views flanked by flowers.

Starting at the Ed’s Trailhead parking lot, there is enough parking for about a dozen vehicles with Discover Passes visible. Carpooling is important. Higher clearance is critical, 4WD less so. Directions can be viewed at https://maps.app.goo.gl/dECb2PtQAnA9chmt5

As for the hike, it's like a dream compared to Grouse Vista's rocky trail. We gain vistas and wildflowers after a half mile of hiking and 400' of elevation gain. We'll hike the Ed's Trail loop clockwise, taking Ed's Trail and its scramble sections uphill and the old roadbed downhill. In between we will take spurs to the Indian Pits and finally to the Silver Star summit for lunch. Except for the spurs, we'll be hiking due south before lunch and due north after lunch. Our expected stats are 7.5 miles with 1,850' of gain. 

Registration is required HERE

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Forest Walk at Columbia Springs
Jun
17

Forest Walk at Columbia Springs

You're invited! Join us for a Forest Walk at Columbia Springs.

Have you ever wondered what wildlife call Columbia Springs or what types of native plants you can find along the trails? Find the answers to these questions and more on a guided forest walk!

Come along with knowledgeable Columbia Springs staff, or expert volunteer, as they lead you on a walk on one of our trails to discover the magic of our site.

  • Forest walks are great for all ages!

  • Please note that our trails are not stroller friendly. 

  • Let Columbia Springs staff know you’re coming in advance by registering at https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/guided-tours/

  • We will meet at 3:30pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!

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Trapper Creek Wilderness - WTA Logout Backcountry Response Team
Jun
18
to Jun 21

Trapper Creek Wilderness - WTA Logout Backcountry Response Team

Trapper Creek Wilderness is a hidden pocket of old-growth surrounding a former fire lookout site deep in Bigfoot territory.

It was also the site of a large wildfire in 2020. Take four days with fellow volunteers to remove fallen logs from the trail and keep the Observation Trail open.

About the Area: This wilderness gem was designated in the mid-1980s to protect one of the few pristine old-growth forests left in southwest Washington. A system of rugged, primitive trails offer a variety of loop opportunities, but the most popular loop remains the Trapper Creek and Observation Trail combination. Our work on this project will improve the system as a whole, supporting our Trails Rebooted work.

Project Description: This crew will be focused on logout and tread repair on the Observation Trail. You will camp at Berry Camp and then hike to the Observation Trail with crosscut saws and tread tools to remove logs and make the trail easier to follow again. The daily commute to your work area starts at 1.3 miles (one way) but will get longer the more work you get done.

Camping and Hiking Information:

  • Type: Backcountry Camp

  • Location: Berry Camp

  • Weather: Be prepared for variable conditions including heat, cold, wind and rain.

  • Initial hike to camp: 1.7 miles with 600 feet of elevation gain. The first approximately .8miles of the hike is in a burn area with limited shade, but the second half of the hike and your camp is in the trees.

  • Expected daily hike to project: 3-4.5mi roundtrip over mostly flat terrain.

Schedule:

  • Day 1: Meet the crew rain or shine, then hike in, begin work on the project and set up camp

  • Day 2+: Make breakfast and pack a lunch before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Arrive back in camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew. / Make a lunch and pack up camp before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Reach camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Set up, prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew.

  • Final Day: Break down camp, finish trail project, hike out and say goodbye to the crew at the trailhead

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information - Get ready for a challenging backcountry adventure!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party:

  • A great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need for the project

  • Backpacking gear and food for multiple nights on the trail

  • Good physical condition to hike with a fully-loaded backpack and be physically active for about 8-9 hours daily on uneven terrain 

  • Backpacking experience including ability to run your own camp following Leave No Trace principles

  • Day work party experience recommended

  • Flexibility to adapt to changes due to unpredictable weather or land manager requests

  • Minimum age: 18

What to Bring - Required

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots. Review our Logout Boot Guide for more details.

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, safety glasses, or mesh “bug eyes”. Glasses should have wrapping side shields. ANSI Z87.1+)

  • Long pants

  • Long sleeve shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA if you do not already have a WTA provided hard hat. For chainsaw use, volunteers will be provided with additional PPE (eye protection, ear pro, gloves, and chainsaw chaps). For safety reasons, volunteers who do not have required gear will not be able to participate in the work party.

Backpacking gear

  • Backpack to carry all of your gear

  • Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad

  • Cooking gear and enough food (plus a little extra) for the entire trip

  • At least two 1-liter water bottles and a way to purify your water

  • Rain jacket and rain pants

  • Extra warm clothing

  • Camp clothing such as shorts, shirt and sandals

  • Sun and bug protection

  • Headlamp and extra batteries

  • Personal items such as medication, hand sanitizer and toiletries

  • ​First aid kit

  • A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Trail work gear

  • Boots

  • Long pants 

  • Work gloves

  • Long-sleeved shirt recommended

  • Eye protection recommended such as safety glasses

  • WTA hard hat (provided, unless you have one)

For safety reasons, shorts and sneakers are not allowed while working. Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

A My Backpack account is required. You will be asked to register or log in before you can join.

Join Waitlist


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One Day adventure circumnavigating the Mount St Helens on the Loowit Trail with Mazamas
Jun
20

One Day adventure circumnavigating the Mount St Helens on the Loowit Trail with Mazamas

Join the Mazamas for this is a One Day adventure circumnavigating the beautiful Lawetlat'la (Mount St Helens) on the Loowit Trail Let's take advantage of the longest day of the year! 

It is a challenging 29 mile 6,500 feet gain hike that has lots of boulder fields, epic views, and volcanic debris fields. This remote trail meanders up and down and out of multiple ravines and crosses several rivers. There are sections that will require you to use a fixed rope to climb out of a ravine. There is also exposure with a few drop offs.

This is not a beginner hike.

We will be moving at a moderate pace finishing the loop in about 12-15 hours. If you wish to apply, you need to list distance hikes or Ultras or other long distance trail runs/hikes of 25+mile range.

You will be required to carry a space blanket, wind/ rain jacket, two liters of water at any time (we will stop to filter more), whistle, and enough high calorie food to graze on that does not require cooking.

Upcoming Required Registration: Registration will open on the date indicated above. Please check back on that date to apply/register for this activity.

[Photo source: WTA Trip report]

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Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Jun
20

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register here!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

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Ape Canyon (Plains of Abraham) hike with Mazamas
Jun
20

Ape Canyon (Plains of Abraham) hike with Mazamas

Join the Mazamas for one of the most unique hikes in southwest Washington!

Here is the All Trails track of our hike. We will go 11 or 12 miles, far enough into the Plains of Abraham to check for mountain goats. The elevation change will be about 2000 feet, but the incline is gentle and rolling. 

Meeting Point: Meet at Winco on 119th Street in Vancouver to carpool at 7 AM.

Alternatively, meet at the rest area in Cougar, WA across from the Lone Fir cafe and campground at 8 AM. 

We will proceed to the trailhead from there together to minimize the number of cars in a very tight parking lot.

Parking: A Northwest Forest Pass is required to park.

Registration is required HERE

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Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Jun
20

Nature Days at Columbia Springs

  • 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA, 98368. (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!

Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!

Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!

Upcoming Nature Days:

  • June 20, 2026 – Cultural Ecosystems

  • July 25, 2026 – Wild Neighbors

  • September 12, 2026 – Fire, Fungi & Other Community Builders

  • October 24, 2026 – Plant Technologies

  • November 21, 2026 – Fish

  • December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities

Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.

We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.

Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?

Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.

What ages is this event appropriate for?

All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!

Interested in Volunteering at this event?

Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!

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ROAD TRIP - Hiking Clinic - NW Association of Blind Athletes
Jun
20

ROAD TRIP - Hiking Clinic - NW Association of Blind Athletes

  • Call to confirm time & location in Portland, OR (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Everybody is an Athlete: At NW Association of Blind Athletes, we believe that any individual who is blind or visually impaired is an athlete and deserves the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity.

NWBA programming is available for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Do you have a sport or activity that you want to get involved with or pick up again? We have a variety of sports available throughout the year.

Register as an Athlete: To ensure you are registered as an athlete in the correct area, please email programsteam@nwaba.org.

Volunteer to support: NWABA is an athlete-centered, volunteer driven organization. Submit the registration form Volunteer Registration

Get Involved With NWABA! If you’d like to be involved with NWABA as an athlete, volunteer or just want to learn more, please contact us and we’ll reach out to you shortly.

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Mt. St. Helen's Eruption Hike with MSHI
Jun
21

Mt. St. Helen's Eruption Hike with MSHI

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute team with a guided nature hike to explore the hummocks created by the May 18th, 1980 eruption!

The Eruption Hike will begin amidst incredible hummocks deposited on May 18, 1980 and as we wind our way through the huge mounds of rocks and debris, we will witness first hand the awesome geological and biological forces that created this landscape 45 years ago. We will emerge from the hummocks and join the Boundary Trail where we will begin our ascent up the scoured and denuded slopes to the ridgeline that separates the blast zone from the standing dead zone. We will visit the Loowit Viewpoint where we will learn about David Johnston and his legacy before we proceed to the Johnston Ridge Observatory (closed) for views of the vast Pumice Plain, volcanic crater and lava domes. Keep your eyes open for meandering elk in the plains below and mountain goats on the cliffs around you.

For detailed information, visit our Eruption Hike program description.

Register today!

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards, all with extensive knowledge of Mount St. Helens

  • MINIMUM AGE:   8. If your hiker is younger, contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $125/person

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides all permits

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE   12

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Forest  Floor Ecology Hike with MSHI
Jun
21

Forest Floor Ecology Hike with MSHI

Uncover the world of snails, slugs and salamanders of Mt. St. Helen’s volcano with an MSHI Wildlife Biologist.

See the forest in a new light as we identify common and rare species, explore the habitats unique to species, and learn about their role in forest ecology. If we're lucky, we will find rare Van Dyke’s Salamanders and Malone Jumping Slugs!

For detailed information, visit our Forest Floor Ecology Hike description.

  • Register today!

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional guides, including a professional wildlife biologist, and two certified volunteer mountain stewards, all with extensive knowledge of Mount St. Helens

  • MINIMUM AGE:   Any age; 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult

  • COST:   $75/person

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides all permits

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE   8

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Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club
Jun
22

Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club

  • Lacamas Creek Trail, NE 3rd Ave, Camas, WA 98607 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Audiobook listeners need not walk alone!

Bring your audiobook of choice and meet the Camas Library each month at a new outdoor location for a community walk. We’ll walk for 60 minutes and wrap up with an optional 30 minutes of social time to chat with other book lovers and audio fans.

Walkers of all paces and experience levels are welcome — whether you’re a power walker, stroller pusher, or leisurely listener, there’s space for you here.

Walks are weather-dependent, so please check our social media channels or this event page for updates or cancellations.

Accommodations: The library strives to ensure our events are accessible to everyone. If you require special accommodations to join us, please call 360.834.4692 or email library@cityofcamas.us at least two weeks before the event.

Location Details:

Lacamas Creek Trail, NE 3rd Ave, Camas, WA 98607

See map: Google Maps

Contact Info

Name: Stacy Yakouba

Email: library@cityofcamas.us

Phone Number: (360) 834-4692

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NEW Silver Trails Community Walk
Jun
24

NEW Silver Trails Community Walk

Parks Foundation of Clark County is with Community in Motion and Vancouver Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services at Luepke Senior Center to launch the new Silver Trails launches May 27!

PFCC is excited to kick off this new walking program for adults 65+ in partnership w/ Vancouver Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services & Community in Motion. The first walk takes place at Orchards Park, w/ monthly outings all summer featuring easy 1–2 mile walks through some of our community’s beautiful parks & trails.

  • Transportation included

  • Easy-paced walks

  • Scenic local destinations

  • Great company

  • Email sean@parksforclark w/ questions.

  • REGISTRATION Required with the City of Vancouver (use the code listed in the table below for the date and location of your choice)

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Family Adventure Camp on Mt. St. Helen's with MSHI
Jun
26
to Jun 28

Family Adventure Camp on Mt. St. Helen's with MSHI

  • Science and Learning Center at Coldwater (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Explore the volcanic landscape of Mount St. Helens with the whole family!

Family Adventure Camp promises to ignite a sense of wonder about this majestic mountain while instilling a newfound confidence in outdoor exploration. Traverse scenic trails, engage in playful activities, unleash your creativity through art, and revel in hands-on experiences that promise to leave lasting memories. Tailored for both the young and the young at heart, our activities encourage teamwork and bonding across generations. So, bring your camping gear, lace up your boots and join us for three unforgettable days to uncover the wonders of the Pacific Northwest's most dynamic volcano! All meals provided.

Is the date you want sold out? Check out the other family adventure camp dates, add your name to our events waitlist, or check out base camp July 24-26.

For detailed information, visit our family adventure camp program description.

  • Register today!

  • WHERE:   Science and Learning Center at Coldwater

  • COST:   Sliding Scale

  • ACCOMMODATIONS:   Bring your own tent or RV

  • MEALS:   Provided

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Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Jun
27

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

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Great American Campout!
Jun
27
to Jun 28

Great American Campout!

  • Several locations throughout SW WA (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

HERE’S TO TRAILS, TALES, AND ADVENTURE!

From coast to coast, the National Wildlife Federation’s Great American Campout has attracted happy campers of all stripes for over twenty years! Whether it’s camping at a national park or in your own backyard, amazing things happen when we spend time in nature. It benefits our health, well-being, and makes us appreciate the need to preserve it for generations to come.

Different Ways to Camp:

  • Tent Camping: The traditional method, ranging from large family tents in designated spots to ultralight backpacking tents.

  • RV/Campervan Camping: Provides home-like comforts, including beds, kitchens, and electricity, making it ideal for longer trips.

  • Backcountry/Backpacking: Involves hiking into remote, undeveloped areas, carrying all necessary gear.

  • Glamping: "Glamorous camping" in fully furnished tents, yurts, or cabins, offering luxury in nature.

  • Hammock Camping: Uses a hammock with a tarp and bug net for a lightweight, off-the-ground, and immersive experience.

  • Car/Truck Bed Camping: Sleeping inside a vehicle or under a truck topper, offering quick setup and protection from elements.

  • Dispersed/Boondocking: Free, primitive camping on public lands (such as BLM land) outside of developed campgrounds.

  • Bivvy Sack Camping: Minimalist shelter, essentially a waterproof cover for a sleeping bag, perfect for fast, light alpine trips.

  • Treehouse/Cabin Camping: A fixed-structure, rustic experience that provides more security and comfort than a tent.

  • Bicycle/Kayak Touring: Camping while touring, where your transportation method carries your gear

Camp local with these ideas for camp sites. Most require and/or support reservations to ensure you have a spot:

Southwest Washington offers several Washington State Park campgrounds featuring forested sites, lake access, and proximity to Mount St. Helens. Key parks include Battle Ground Lake (hiking/equestrian), Seaquest (near Mt. St. Helens), Rainbow Falls (river access), and Beacon Rock in the Columbia River Gorge. 

Key Southwest Washington State Park Campgrounds

  • Battle Ground Lake State Park (Battle Ground): Features50+ tent and utility sites in a forested setting near a spring-fed lake.

  • Seaquest State Park (Castle Rock): Located near Mt. St. Helens, offering 52 tent sites, full utility hookups, and yurts.

  • Beacon Rock State Park (Skamania): Offers over 4,000 acres of, featuring primitive and standard sites in the Columbia River Gorge.

  • Rainbow Falls State Park (Chehalis): Features over 40 campsites, offering fishing, hiking, and swimming along the Chehalis River.

  • Cape Disappointment State Park (Ilwaco): A popular coastal park with campsites, yurts, and cabins near the mouth of the Columbia River. 

Other Camping Options

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Mt. St. Helen’s Stewardship Days with MSHI
Jun
27

Mt. St. Helen’s Stewardship Days with MSHI

Stewardship Days with Mount St. Helens Institute offers a series of stewardship days where YOU can support public lands. Join us for a special day of invasive-species removal, with a FREE optional 2.4-mile guided hike on the Hummocks Trail after lunch.

Event Schedule:

  • Invasive Weed Removal 10 am - 1 pm

  • Lunch 1 pm - 2 pm

  • Guided Hummocks Trail Hike 2 pm - 4 pm

Cost: Free, registration is required HERE

Ages: Recommended for ages 10 and older; youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

Choose a date below to learn more and register!

Available Special Events:

Mount St. Helens is located within a National Volcanic Monument, a place set aside to observe how nature responds to a dramatic, geologic event. The ecological systems at Mount St. Helens have surprised us all, with incredible growth and resilience in the decades after the eruption. Alder forests, wildflower meadows, and marshy wetlands are thriving after the eruption.

Are you ready for a challenge? Help us take care of Mount St. Helens by removing invasive weeds with a beautiful view of the volcano, then join us for a guided hike on the Hummocks Trail.

What we’ll do together:

This activity requires walking on uneven, sloping terrain and performing tasks that involve bending, pulling, and lifting. We will be working a short 10-15 minute walk from the Science & Learning Center, which has bathrooms and running water. We will use hand tools to cut and bag noxious weed species.

Optional Guided Hike:

Join us for a post-service guided hike on the Hummocks Trail. This 2.4-mile hike will take us through remnants of the 1980 eruptions and the forests that are returning.

What to bring:

  • Wear long pants and sturdy shoes

  • Come prepared with layers for the weather. This may include sun protection (such as a hat and sunscreen) and/or rain gear.

  • Plenty of water. Water will be available to fill water bottles.

  • Sack lunch. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

  • If you have work gloves, loppers, and eye protection (glasses, safety glasses, or sunglasses), please bring them.

AGES:   Recommended for ages 10 and older; youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:   No experience required; MSHI will provide training and tools

WHERE:   Science and Learning Center at Coldwater

COST:   Free

ACTIVITY LEVEL:   Weeding: Expect to be physically active at your own pace. Guided Hike: 3 miles on trail of varying terrain.

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Cedar Creek Grist Mill Strawberry Shortcake Day
Jun
27

Cedar Creek Grist Mill Strawberry Shortcake Day

  • 43907 NE Grist Mill Road Woodland, Washington (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Cedar Creek Grist Mill for Strawberry Shortcake Day!

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a historical, water-powered, grain-grinding mill. Volunteers provide demonstrations and bags of fresh-milled flour and cornmeal to guests. Read more

Grist Mill Events: The Grist Mill hosts many free special events during the year — such as the popular cider press — and they all include some good eats! Take a look at our special event list.

Find Events

What will you see at the mill? Our volunteers work the mill, answer questions about the old style milling process and welcome visitors from around the globe. School field trips and senior tours are scheduled for weekdays and the mill is open to visitors on weekends. You can watch the millers mill grain the way it was done in 1876, and take home a bag of fresh flour or cornmeal.

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Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Jun
28

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

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Mt. St. Helen's Special Eruption Hike with MSHI Geologist!
Jun
28

Mt. St. Helen's Special Eruption Hike with MSHI Geologist!

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute team with a guided nature hike to explore the hummocks created by the May18th, 1980 eruption!

The Eruption Hike will begin amidst incredible hummocks deposited on May 18, 1980 and as we wind our way through the huge mounds of rocks and debris, we will witness first hand the awesome geological and biological forces that created this landscape 45 years ago. We will emerge from the hummocks and join the Boundary Trail where we will begin our ascent up the scoured and denuded slopes to the ridgeline that separates the blast zone from the standing dead zone. We will visit the Loowit Viewpoint where we will learn about David Johnston and his legacy before we proceed to the Johnston Ridge Observatory (closed) for views of the vast Pumice Plain, volcanic crater and lava domes. Keep your eyes open for meandering elk in the plains below and mountain goats on the cliffs around you.

For detailed information, visit our Eruption Hike program description.

Register today!

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards, all with extensive knowledge of Mount St. Helens

  • MINIMUM AGE:   8. If your hiker is younger, contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $125/person

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides all permits

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE   12

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Birding Walk at Ridgefield NWR
Jul
4

Birding Walk at Ridgefield NWR

Join Ron Escano for a birding walk at the Ridgefield NWR1

Ron has years of experience guiding local birding groups. Whether you are new to birding, are looking to sharpen your skills, or just hope to find a group to bird with, Ron is a great person to spend a morning with. His pace is relaxed, but thorough, making sure everyone has seen or heard each species.  Ron will help new birders focus on key identification points to build their bird knowledge while sorting through the nuances of sparrow calls for more advanced birders.

Upcoming walks meet at the Carty Unit of the Refuge at 8 am and are limited to 15 people. These generally until noon but you are welcome to stay as long or short as works for you. Walks are free but the $3 refuge daily fee does apply. For more information about the fee and rules of the refuge click here

  • May 2nd

  • June 6th

  • July 4th (TBD)

  • August 1st

Volunteers make it possible to offer public naturalist-led walks about a variety of topics. The following opportunities are listed by walk leader and topic.

For questions and to sign up for the following opportunities send an email to email RidgefieldVolunteer@fws.gov with the following information: 

  1. Name, date, and site of the walk.

  2. Names of all participants.

  3. Phone number.

If a walk is listed as "FULL", you can still email to request to be put onto the waitlist for that walk.

For groups looking for guided tours see the Education Page

Questions that are not answered here or just can't get something to work? Call our office at 360-887-4106. 


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Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Jul
5

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Forest Floor Ecology Hike with MSHI
Jul
5

Forest Floor Ecology Hike with MSHI

Uncover the world of snails, slugs and salamanders of Mt. St. Helen’s volcano with an MSHI Wildlife Biologist.

See the forest in a new light as we identify common and rare species, explore the habitats unique to species, and learn about their role in forest ecology. If we're lucky, we will find rare Van Dyke’s Salamanders and Malone Jumping Slugs!

For detailed information, visit our Forest Floor Ecology Hike description.

  • Register today!

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional guides, including a professional wildlife biologist, and two certified volunteer mountain stewards, all with extensive knowledge of Mount St. Helens

  • MINIMUM AGE:   Any age; 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult

  • COST:   $75/person

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides all permits

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE   8

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Jul
8

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Coldwater Lake - WTA Backcountry Response Team
Jul
9
to Jul 12

Coldwater Lake - WTA Backcountry Response Team

Don't miss this chance to work along the gorgeous Lakes Trail, beginning at Coldwater Lake with views of St. Helens.

This crew is camping at the east end of Coldwater Lake, which the Forest Service is graciously allowing us to use just for this work party!

About the Area: The Mount Margaret backcountry is one of the most unique landscapes in North America. Visitors to this rugged and spectacular part of the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument can see the effects of the 1980 eruption of St. Helens.

The lateral blast and pyroclastic flows shattered trees and swirled around peaks and basins as it toppled thousands of acres of pristine forest. Now the area is a stark moonscape and an excellent destination for hiking and backpacking.

What to Expect - We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference!

Project Description

We are working on sections of both the Lakes and Coldwater Trails that has been severely overgrown the last few years. Expect brushing (cutting back foliage) to reveal the trail, followed by lots of treadwork in order to re-establish the trail.

Camping and Hiking Information

  • Type: Backcountry basecamp

  • Location: Coldwater Lake, with water available (which must be filtered) from the lake.

  • Weather: Be prepared for variable conditions including heat, cold, wind and rain

  • Initial hike to camp: 3.8 miles rolling along the lake shore with 500 feet of elevation change, at a moderate pace while carrying your backpack fully loaded with all provisions including camping gear and food, plus WTA-provided tools

  • Expected daily hike to project: depending on how far we get, 1-2 miles roundtrip with up to 1500 feet of elevation gain at a moderate pace.

Schedule:

  • Day 1: Meet the crew rain or shine, then hike in, begin work on the project and set up camp

  • Day 2+: Make breakfast and pack a lunch before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Arrive back in camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew. / Make a lunch and pack up camp before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Reach camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Set up, prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew.

  • Final Day: Break down camp, finish trail project, hike out and say goodbye to the crew at the trailhead

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information

Get ready for a challenging backcountry adventure!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • A great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need for the project

  • Backpacking gear and food for multiple nights on the trail

  • Good physical condition to hike with a fully-loaded backpack and be physically active for about 8-9 hours daily on uneven terrain 

  • Backpacking experience including ability to run your own camp following Leave No Trace principles

  • Day work party experience recommended

  • Flexibility to adapt to changes due to unpredictable weather or land manager requests

  • Minimum age: 18

What to Bring - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA if you do not already have a WTA provided hard hat. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

Backpacking gear

  • Backpack to carry all of your gear

  • Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad

  • Cooking gear and enough food (plus a little extra) for the entire trip

  • At least two 1-liter water bottles and a way to purify your water

  • Rain jacket and rain pants

  • Extra warm clothing

  • Camp clothing such as shorts, shirt and sandals

  • Sun and bug protection

  • Headlamp and extra batteries

  • Personal items such as medication, hand sanitizer and toiletries

  • ​First aid kit

  • A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Trail work gear

  • Boots

  • Long pants 

  • Work gloves

  • Long-sleeved shirt recommended

  • Eye protection recommended such as safety glasses

  • WTA hard hat (provided, unless you have one)

For safety reasons, shorts and sneakers are not allowed while working. Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

A My Backpack account is required. You will be asked to register or log in before you can join.

Join Waitlist

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ROAD TRIP - Lookout Mountain Wildflower Hike
Jul
9

ROAD TRIP - Lookout Mountain Wildflower Hike

Join the Washington Native Plant Society for a wildflower hike at Lookout Mountain, Hood River County, OR

The is a moderate hike of 2.6 miles with 570 ft elevation gain.  Round trip from Portland is 150 miles paved, 12 miles gravel.  Lookout Mountain is east of  Mt Hood and Hood River Valley.  We’ll hike from High Prairie up to the top of Lookout Mountain and return.   A variety of forest, meadow, and rocky outcrops with lots of good plants.  NW Forest Pass required. 

This is a joint hike between the Suksdorfia Chapter (WNPS) and the Portland Chapter (NPSO).  Hike participation is limited to 12. 

To sign up for the hike or for more info contact Ron Klump at klumpron@gmail.com 

View Event →
Family Adventure Camp on Mt. St. Helen's with MSHI
Jul
10
to Jul 12

Family Adventure Camp on Mt. St. Helen's with MSHI

  • Science and Learning Center at Coldwater (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Explore the volcanic landscape of Mount St. Helens with the whole family!

Family Adventure Camp promises to ignite a sense of wonder about this majestic mountain while instilling a newfound confidence in outdoor exploration. Traverse scenic trails, engage in playful activities, unleash your creativity through art, and revel in hands-on experiences that promise to leave lasting memories. Tailored for both the young and the young at heart, our activities encourage teamwork and bonding across generations. So, bring your camping gear, lace up your boots and join us for three unforgettable days to uncover the wonders of the Pacific Northwest's most dynamic volcano! All meals provided.

Is the date you want sold out? Check out the other family adventure camp dates, add your name to our events waitlist, or check out base camp July 24-26.

For detailed information, visit our family adventure camp program description.

  • Register today!

  • WHERE:   Science and Learning Center at Coldwater

  • COST:   Sliding Scale

  • ACCOMMODATIONS:   Bring your own tent or RV

  • MEALS:   Provided

View Event →
Birding walk @ Ridgefield NWR
Jul
11

Birding walk @ Ridgefield NWR

Join Robert Vanderkamp for a Birding Walk at the Ridgefield NWR!

Before moving here from Michigan, Robert led bird walks as the President of his Audubon Chapter for 17 years.  He has been watching birds for most of his adult life and lives by the motto “care and share”. He loves talking to people about birds and is excited to host bird walks at the Carty Unit every second Saturday of the month. We will post these a few months at a time to accommodate any needed changes in the schedule. 

Upcoming walks meet at the Carty Unit of the Refuge at 8 am and are limited to 12 people. These generally last two to three hours but you are welcome to stay as long or short as works for you. Walks are free but the $3 refuge daily fee does apply. For more information about the fee and rules of the refuge click here

  • June 13th

  • July 11th

  • August 8th


Volunteers make it possible to offer public naturalist-led walks about a variety of topics. The following opportunities are listed by walk leader and topic.

For questions and REGISTER for walks send an email to email RidgefieldVolunteer@fws.gov with the following information: 

  1. Name, date, and site of the walk.

  2. Names of all participants.

  3. Phone number.

If a walk is listed as "FULL", you can still email to request to be put onto the waitlist for that walk.

For groups looking for guided tours see the Education Page

Questions that are not answered here or just can't get something to work? Call our office at 360-887-4106

View Event →
ROAD TRIP - Mt. Hood Meadows Chairlift wildlife ride and hike
Jul
16

ROAD TRIP - Mt. Hood Meadows Chairlift wildlife ride and hike

Join the Washington Native Plant Society for this hike that uses the Mount Hood Meadows chair lift to quickly gain the high mountain meadows for stunning displays of a wide variety of alpine flowers.   

From the chairlift, hike west and loop back down to the parking lot.  When the wildflowers have dried out everyplace else this is the place to go for stunning views of the high mountain meadows.  Some of the most accessible and spectacular displays are on the Mount Hood Meadows ski slopes where a widely diverse panorama of alpine flowers bloom in this late season.  Last year lift ticket prices were $22 on the day of the hike or $20 if purchased on line; seniors 75+ ride free. 

This is a joint hike with the Suksdorfia Chapter (WNPS) and the Portland Chapter (NPSO). The hike is limited to 12 people. 

Contact Ron Klump at klumpron@gmail.com to sign up for the hike.

View Event →
Mount St. Helens Trail Jamboree and Campout! - WTA Day Work Party
Jul
17

Mount St. Helens Trail Jamboree and Campout! - WTA Day Work Party

What could be better than a weekend of stewardship at Mount St. Helens?

Each day will start with an opportunity to tend the trails on the east side of the Monument -- and will end with a campout complete with guest speakers, s'mores, and plenty of good company. Feel free to bring your family, and join us for one, two, or all three days!

This Jamboree is a partnership between WTA and the Mount St. Helens Institute (MSHI).

These work parties will be opened for registration on May 1 around 4pm.

Last year, we were able to invite nearly everyone off the waitlist, so if you are committed to this event, put yourself on the waitlist and think happy thoughts:)

** If you are a WTA volunteer Crew Leader and want to help, please reach out to SW Regional Coordinator Stasia Honnold, shonnold@wta.org**

About the Area: The east side of Mount St. Helens is less trafficked than the Johnston Ridge Observatory side, but not in any way less spectacular. From the amazing views from Strawberry Mountain to the Mount Margaret Backcountry and its plethora of sapphire lakes, from a trail down to Spirit Lake to the Boundary Trail that you can follow for another 40 miles out of the blast zone and back into the big trees, this area has it all!

What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! Volunteer on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or all three. No experience is necessary.

Project Description: Each morning, we will split into several different crews to work on several trails in the area. You will start at Wakepish Sno-Park/Picnic Area to get organized, then caravan to the work location. The work will include using cutting tools (including power tools if fire precaution levels permit) to remove vegetation from the trail corridor, using digging tools to fix the walking surface of the trail, and using digging tools to clear drainage.

Please register for the specific day(s) you are planning to volunteer, and we will split into separate crews for each day onsite.

Hiking Information: Each day will be different depending on how the work goes, and you will be able to self-select into a crew with an expected level of exertion that matches your available energy. Be prepared for options ranging from a hike of 1.5 miles round trip to a hike of 4.5 miles round trip over hilly terrain.

Camping Information: We will have a large camping area set up at Wakepish Sno-Park/Picnic Area. You are welcome to camp the day before and after your stewardship; trailers, campers, and tents all welcome.

There is no potable water onsite, though there is a nearby stream from which you can filter or treat water.

Schedule:

  • 8:00 AM: Be ready to meet the crew. Please make sure your electronic waiver has already been signed before the work party!

  • 8:05 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:00 PM: The end! Relax and, if you're camping, spend the afternoon soaking up the area.

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Special Event:

This work party is made possible by a special partnership between WTA and the Mount St. Helens Institute. We will have guest speakers on both Friday and Saturday evening (attendance optional) who will talk about the 1980 eruption, scientific research on the volcano, and the history of trails in the area. There will be lawn games (attendance also optional). You provide your own food; we will provide a campfire (depending on fire regulations at the time) and s'mores.

Planning Information

Get ready for a great day outside!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours each day on uneven terrain

  • 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 - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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!

  • Your camping equipment if you are planning to stay overnight

  • Enough water for however long you are planning to be present (or a way to treat water from a nearby stream)

  • Enough food for however long you are planning to be present

  • Any medications you need for the duration of your stay

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

This is a preview. Registration will open soon.

View Event →
Family Adventure Camp on Mt. St. Helen's with MSHI
Jul
17
to Jul 19

Family Adventure Camp on Mt. St. Helen's with MSHI

  • Science and Learning Center at Coldwater (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Explore the volcanic landscape of Mount St. Helens with the whole family!

Family Adventure Camp promises to ignite a sense of wonder about this majestic mountain while instilling a newfound confidence in outdoor exploration. Traverse scenic trails, engage in playful activities, unleash your creativity through art, and revel in hands-on experiences that promise to leave lasting memories. Tailored for both the young and the young at heart, our activities encourage teamwork and bonding across generations. So, bring your camping gear, lace up your boots and join us for three unforgettable days to uncover the wonders of the Pacific Northwest's most dynamic volcano! All meals provided.

Is the date you want sold out? Check out the other family adventure camp dates, add your name to our events waitlist, or check out base camp July 24-26.

For detailed information, visit our family adventure camp program description.

  • Register today!

  • WHERE:   Science and Learning Center at Coldwater

  • COST:   Sliding Scale

  • ACCOMMODATIONS:   Bring your own tent or RV

  • MEALS:   Provided

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Jul
18

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Mount St. Helens Trail Jamboree and Campout! - WTA Day Work Party
Jul
18

Mount St. Helens Trail Jamboree and Campout! - WTA Day Work Party

What could be better than a weekend of stewardship at Mount St. Helens?

Each day will start with an opportunity to tend the trails on the east side of the Monument -- and will end with a campout complete with guest speakers, s'mores, and plenty of good company. Feel free to bring your family, and join us for one, two, or all three days!

This Jamboree is a partnership between WTA and the Mount St. Helens Institute (MSHI).

These work parties will be opened for registration on May 1 around 4pm.

Last year, we were able to invite nearly everyone off the waitlist, so if you are committed to this event, put yourself on the waitlist and think happy thoughts:)

** If you are a WTA volunteer Crew Leader and want to help, please reach out to SW Regional Coordinator Stasia Honnold, shonnold@wta.org**

About the Area: The east side of Mount St. Helens is less trafficked than the Johnston Ridge Observatory side, but not in any way less spectacular. From the amazing views from Strawberry Mountain to the Mount Margaret Backcountry and its plethora of sapphire lakes, from a trail down to Spirit Lake to the Boundary Trail that you can follow for another 40 miles out of the blast zone and back into the big trees, this area has it all!

What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! Volunteer on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or all three. No experience is necessary.

Project Description: Each morning, we will split into several different crews to work on several trails in the area. You will start at Wakepish Sno-Park/Picnic Area to get organized, then caravan to the work location. The work will include using cutting tools (including power tools if fire precaution levels permit) to remove vegetation from the trail corridor, using digging tools to fix the walking surface of the trail, and using digging tools to clear drainage.

Please register for the specific day(s) you are planning to volunteer, and we will split into separate crews for each day onsite.

Hiking Information: Each day will be different depending on how the work goes, and you will be able to self-select into a crew with an expected level of exertion that matches your available energy. Be prepared for options ranging from a hike of 1.5 miles round trip to a hike of 4.5 miles round trip over hilly terrain.

Camping Information: We will have a large camping area set up at Wakepish Sno-Park/Picnic Area. You are welcome to camp the day before and after your stewardship; trailers, campers, and tents all welcome.

There is no potable water onsite, though there is a nearby stream from which you can filter or treat water.

Schedule:

  • 8:00 AM: Be ready to meet the crew. Please make sure your electronic waiver has already been signed before the work party!

  • 8:05 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:00 PM: The end! Relax and, if you're camping, spend the afternoon soaking up the area.

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Special Event:

This work party is made possible by a special partnership between WTA and the Mount St. Helens Institute. We will have guest speakers on both Friday and Saturday evening (attendance optional) who will talk about the 1980 eruption, scientific research on the volcano, and the history of trails in the area. There will be lawn games (attendance also optional). You provide your own food; we will provide a campfire (depending on fire regulations at the time) and s'mores.

Planning Information

Get ready for a great day outside!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours each day on uneven terrain

  • 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 - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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!

  • Your camping equipment if you are planning to stay overnight

  • Enough water for however long you are planning to be present (or a way to treat water from a nearby stream)

  • Enough food for however long you are planning to be present

  • Any medications you need for the duration of your stay

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

This is a preview. Registration will open soon.

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Eruption Hike with MSHI
Jul
18

Mt. St. Helen's Eruption Hike with MSHI

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute team with a guided nature hike to explore the hummocks created by the May18th, 1980 eruption!

The Eruption Hike will begin amidst incredible hummocks deposited on May 18, 1980 and as we wind our way through the huge mounds of rocks and debris, we will witness first hand the awesome geological and biological forces that created this landscape 45 years ago. We will emerge from the hummocks and join the Boundary Trail where we will begin our ascent up the scoured and denuded slopes to the ridgeline that separates the blast zone from the standing dead zone. We will visit the Loowit Viewpoint where we will learn about David Johnston and his legacy before we proceed to the Johnston Ridge Observatory (closed) for views of the vast Pumice Plain, volcanic crater and lava domes. Keep your eyes open for meandering elk in the plains below and mountain goats on the cliffs around you.

For detailed information, visit our Eruption Hike program description.

Register today!

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards, all with extensive knowledge of Mount St. Helens

  • MINIMUM AGE:   8. If your hiker is younger, contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $125/person

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides all permits

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE   12

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI Geologist!
Jul
19

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI Geologist!

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Mount St. Helens Trail Jamboree and Campout! - WTA Day Work Party
Jul
19

Mount St. Helens Trail Jamboree and Campout! - WTA Day Work Party

What could be better than a weekend of stewardship at Mount St. Helens?

Each day will start with an opportunity to tend the trails on the east side of the Monument -- and will end with a campout complete with guest speakers, s'mores, and plenty of good company. Feel free to bring your family, and join us for one, two, or all three days!

This Jamboree is a partnership between WTA and the Mount St. Helens Institute (MSHI).

These work parties will be opened for registration on May 1 around 4pm.

Last year, we were able to invite nearly everyone off the waitlist, so if you are committed to this event, put yourself on the waitlist and think happy thoughts:)

** If you are a WTA volunteer Crew Leader and want to help, please reach out to SW Regional Coordinator Stasia Honnold, shonnold@wta.org**

About the Area: The east side of Mount St. Helens is less trafficked than the Johnston Ridge Observatory side, but not in any way less spectacular. From the amazing views from Strawberry Mountain to the Mount Margaret Backcountry and its plethora of sapphire lakes, from a trail down to Spirit Lake to the Boundary Trail that you can follow for another 40 miles out of the blast zone and back into the big trees, this area has it all!

What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! Volunteer on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or all three. No experience is necessary.

Project Description: Each morning, we will split into several different crews to work on several trails in the area. You will start at Wakepish Sno-Park/Picnic Area to get organized, then caravan to the work location. The work will include using cutting tools (including power tools if fire precaution levels permit) to remove vegetation from the trail corridor, using digging tools to fix the walking surface of the trail, and using digging tools to clear drainage.

Please register for the specific day(s) you are planning to volunteer, and we will split into separate crews for each day onsite.

Hiking Information: Each day will be different depending on how the work goes, and you will be able to self-select into a crew with an expected level of exertion that matches your available energy. Be prepared for options ranging from a hike of 1.5 miles round trip to a hike of 4.5 miles round trip over hilly terrain.

Camping Information: We will have a large camping area set up at Wakepish Sno-Park/Picnic Area. You are welcome to camp the day before and after your stewardship; trailers, campers, and tents all welcome.

There is no potable water onsite, though there is a nearby stream from which you can filter or treat water.

Schedule:

  • 8:00 AM: Be ready to meet the crew. Please make sure your electronic waiver has already been signed before the work party!

  • 8:05 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:00 PM: The end! Relax and, if you're camping, spend the afternoon soaking up the area.

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Special Event:

This work party is made possible by a special partnership between WTA and the Mount St. Helens Institute. We will have guest speakers on both Friday and Saturday evening (attendance optional) who will talk about the 1980 eruption, scientific research on the volcano, and the history of trails in the area. There will be lawn games (attendance also optional). You provide your own food; we will provide a campfire (depending on fire regulations at the time) and s'mores.

Planning Information

Get ready for a great day outside!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours each day on uneven terrain

  • 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 - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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!

  • Your camping equipment if you are planning to stay overnight

  • Enough water for however long you are planning to be present (or a way to treat water from a nearby stream)

  • Enough food for however long you are planning to be present

  • Any medications you need for the duration of your stay

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

This is a preview. Registration will open soon.

View Event →
Photography Hike with MSHI
Jul
19

Photography Hike with MSHI

Join professional Photographer Patrick Aalto and Mt. St. Helen’s Institute Guides on a photography hike to Spirit Lake, which was forever transformed by the 1980 eruption.

Patrick will offer practical photography instruction in the field while a naturalist guide will offer you insight into the incredible natural and human history of Spirit Lake. Train your cameras on the vibrant wildflowers in bloom, streams, waterfalls or the sun-bleached logs afloat in the lake since the 1980 eruption.

For detailed information, visit our Photography Hike program page.

  • Register today!

  • DISTANCE:   2.5 miles to 3 miles (4km - 4.8km)

  • COST:   $125 per person

  • ELEVATION GAIN:   630 feet (192m)

  • PERMITS:   All permits provided

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   12

  • MINIMUM AGE:   8. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Jul
22

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Eruption Hike with MSHI
Jul
22

Mt. St. Helen's Eruption Hike with MSHI

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute team with a guided nature hike to explore the hummocks created by the May18th, 1980 eruption!

The Eruption Hike will begin amidst incredible hummocks deposited on May 18, 1980 and as we wind our way through the huge mounds of rocks and debris, we will witness first hand the awesome geological and biological forces that created this landscape 45 years ago. We will emerge from the hummocks and join the Boundary Trail where we will begin our ascent up the scoured and denuded slopes to the ridgeline that separates the blast zone from the standing dead zone. We will visit the Loowit Viewpoint where we will learn about David Johnston and his legacy before we proceed to the Johnston Ridge Observatory (closed) for views of the vast Pumice Plain, volcanic crater and lava domes. Keep your eyes open for meandering elk in the plains below and mountain goats on the cliffs around you.

For detailed information, visit our Eruption Hike program description.

Register today!

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards, all with extensive knowledge of Mount St. Helens

  • MINIMUM AGE:   8. If your hiker is younger, contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $125/person

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides all permits

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE   12

View Event →
NEW Silver Trails Community Walk
Jul
22

NEW Silver Trails Community Walk

Parks Foundation of Clark County is with Community in Motion and Vancouver Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services at Luepke Senior Center to launch the new Silver Trails launches May 27!

PFCC is excited to kick off this new walking program for adults 65+ in partnership w/ Vancouver Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services & Community in Motion. The first walk takes place at Orchards Park, w/ monthly outings all summer featuring easy 1–2 mile walks through some of our community’s beautiful parks & trails.

  • Transportation included

  • Easy-paced walks

  • Scenic local destinations

  • Great company

  • Email sean@parksforclark w/ questions.

  • REGISTRATION Required with the City of Vancouver (use the code listed in the table below for the date and location of your choice)

View Event →
Lakes Trail at Snow Lake - Mt. St. Helen's - WTA Backcountry Response Team
Jul
23
to Jul 26

Lakes Trail at Snow Lake - Mt. St. Helen's - WTA Backcountry Response Team

This is a trip for the Mt. Margaret Backcountry enthusiasts who are excited about a longer hike!

Your crew will walk along the gorgeous Lakes Trail with views of Mount St. Helens, then keep going into the coveted Mt Margaret Backcountry. Permits for this area are hard to come by, but your crew has permission to camp at Snow Lake in exchange for the copious treadwork you will do nearby.

Mount St Helens Monument staff will shuttle your packs and tools across Coldwater Lake for you, which means that you get to make half of your hike without your tools or full pack!

About the Area: The Mount Margaret backcountry is one of the most unique landscapes in North America. Visitors to this rugged and spectacular part of the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument can see the effects of the 1980 eruption of St. Helens.

The lateral blast and pyroclastic flows shattered trees and swirled around peaks and basins as it toppled thousands of acres of pristine forest. Now the area is a stark moonscape and an excellent destination for hiking and backpacking.

What to Expect

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference!

Project Description

The trail by Snow Lake has deep ruts and intense drainage issues. You will use digging tools to reset the walking surface to something comfortable to walk on and sustainable for the landscape. It is a chunky project within a half mile of camp.

Camping and Hiking Information

  • Type: Backcountry basecamp

  • Location: Coldwater Lake, with water available (which must be filtered) from the lake.

  • Weather: Be prepared for variable conditions including heat, cold, wind and rain

  • Initial hike to camp: 7.9 miles. The first 4 miles roll along the lake shore with 500 feet of elevation change, then you head uphill for the last 3.9 miles with a gain of 2300 feet. You will carry your backpack fully loaded with all provisions including camping gear and food, plus one WTA-provided tool (which you may strap to your pack if you can do so safely).

  • Expected daily hike to project: 1 miles roundtrip with minimal elevation change

Schedule:

  • Day 1: Meet the crew rain or shine, then hike in, begin work on the project and set up camp

  • Day 2+: Make breakfast and pack a lunch before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Arrive back in camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew. / Make a lunch and pack up camp before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Reach camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Set up, prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew.

  • Final Day: Break down camp, finish trail project, hike out and say goodbye to the crew at the trailhead

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information

Get ready for a challenging backcountry adventure!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • A great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need for the project

  • Backpacking gear and food for multiple nights on the trail

  • Good physical condition to hike with a fully-loaded backpack and be physically active for about 8-9 hours daily on uneven terrain 

  • Backpacking experience including ability to run your own camp following Leave No Trace principles

  • Day work party experience recommended

  • Flexibility to adapt to changes due to unpredictable weather or land manager requests

  • Minimum age: 18

What to Bring - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA if you do not already have a WTA provided hard hat. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

Backpacking gear

  • Backpack to carry all of your gear

  • Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad

  • Cooking gear and enough food (plus a little extra) for the entire trip

  • At least two 1-liter water bottles and a way to purify your water

  • Rain jacket and rain pants

  • Extra warm clothing

  • Camp clothing such as shorts, shirt and sandals

  • Sun and bug protection

  • Headlamp and extra batteries

  • Personal items such as medication, hand sanitizer and toiletries

  • ​First aid kit

  • A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Trail work gear

  • Boots

  • Long pants 

  • Work gloves

  • Long-sleeved shirt recommended

  • Eye protection recommended such as safety glasses

  • WTA hard hat (provided, unless you have one)

For safety reasons, shorts and sneakers are not allowed while working. Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

A My Backpack account is required. You will be asked to register or log in before you can join.

Join Waitlist

View Event →
Base Camp Camping with MSHI
Jul
24
to Jul 26

Base Camp Camping with MSHI

  • Science and Learning Center at Coldwater (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Base Camp is a rare and exciting opportunity for folks to camp on the north side of Mount St. Helens. 

Bring your camping gear, set up for the weekend, and participate in all the mountain has to offer. Gaze into the blast zone and enjoy grand views in all directions, go on a self-guided adventure, or join us for a guided hike. You can launch all your adventures from Base Camp Mount St. Helens, located at the Science and Learning Center above Coldwater Lake. In the evenings, enjoy dinner with us, learn from our guest speaker, and wind down with a s'more at the community campfire. All meals provided!

For detailed information including sliding scale pricing, visit our base camp program description.

  • Register today! Is the date you want sold out? Add your name to our events waitlist.

  • WHERE:   Science and Learning Center at Coldwater

  • COST:   Sliding Scale

  • ACCOMMODATIONS:   Bring your own tent or RV

  • MEALS:   Provided

View Event →
Into the Crater Hike with MSHI
Jul
24
to Jul 26

Into the Crater Hike with MSHI

  • Meeting location is at Cascade Peaks Interpretive Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute team for a unique and profound adventure into the crater of an active volcano!

This is a true North American bucket-list experience. Our expert teams of geologists, professional mountain guides and certified volunteer mountain stewards will lead you past hummocks and cinder cones, canyons, pumice fields and lava beds, waterfalls and wildflowers, to the edge of the youngest and fastest-growing glacier in the world. Under the curious gaze of mountain goats you will move carefully through a landscape that has been exposed for only 45 years.

This multi-day adventure begins Friday afternoon and concludes Sunday morning with a day hike on Saturday. We welcome you to our remote Mount St. Helens Field Camp where our Guide Staff and Camp Host will assist you with setting up your campsite, vehicle spot or choosing a cot in our large wall tents. The Host will prepare a delicious dinner catered to your dietary needs and you will be treated to a fireside chat by the geologist. Saturday, you'll rise early and after a hot breakfast, you'll caravan to the trailhead and commence an amazing day of immersive education and exploration of the landscape. Following Saturday’s hike, you're welcomed to stay at camp for dinner and socializing before departing Sunday morning after a full night's rest and a hearty breakfast.

For detailed information, visit our Into the Crater program description.

  • Register today!

  • DURATION:   Three days, two nights; one hiking day of approximately 8 hours

  • DISTANCE:   Approximately 8 miles round trip

  • COST:   $925, includes professional geologists, mountain guides, camp chef and volunteers.

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides special use permit

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   12

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. For younger hikers, contact us to discuss.

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Jul
25

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen’s Stewardship Days with MSHI
Jul
25

Mt. St. Helen’s Stewardship Days with MSHI

Stewardship Days with Mount St. Helens Institute offers a series of stewardship days where YOU can support public lands. Join us for a special day of invasive-species removal, with a FREE optional 2.4-mile guided hike on the Hummocks Trail after lunch.

Event Schedule:

  • Invasive Weed Removal 10 am - 1 pm

  • Lunch 1 pm - 2 pm

  • Guided Hummocks Trail Hike 2 pm - 4 pm

Cost: Free, registration is required HERE

Ages: Recommended for ages 10 and older; youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

Choose a date below to learn more and register!

Available Special Events:

Mount St. Helens is located within a National Volcanic Monument, a place set aside to observe how nature responds to a dramatic, geologic event. The ecological systems at Mount St. Helens have surprised us all, with incredible growth and resilience in the decades after the eruption. Alder forests, wildflower meadows, and marshy wetlands are thriving after the eruption.

Are you ready for a challenge? Help us take care of Mount St. Helens by removing invasive weeds with a beautiful view of the volcano, then join us for a guided hike on the Hummocks Trail.

What we’ll do together:

This activity requires walking on uneven, sloping terrain and performing tasks that involve bending, pulling, and lifting. We will be working a short 10-15 minute walk from the Science & Learning Center, which has bathrooms and running water. We will use hand tools to cut and bag noxious weed species.

Optional Guided Hike:

Join us for a post-service guided hike on the Hummocks Trail. This 2.4-mile hike will take us through remnants of the 1980 eruptions and the forests that are returning.

What to bring:

  • Wear long pants and sturdy shoes

  • Come prepared with layers for the weather. This may include sun protection (such as a hat and sunscreen) and/or rain gear.

  • Plenty of water. Water will be available to fill water bottles.

  • Sack lunch. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

  • If you have work gloves, loppers, and eye protection (glasses, safety glasses, or sunglasses), please bring them.

AGES:   Recommended for ages 10 and older; youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:   No experience required; MSHI will provide training and tools

WHERE:   Science and Learning Center at Coldwater

COST:   Free

ACTIVITY LEVEL:   Weeding: Expect to be physically active at your own pace. Guided Hike: 3 miles on trail of varying terrain.

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Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Jul
25

Nature Days at Columbia Springs

  • 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA, 98368. (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!

Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!

Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!

Upcoming Nature Days:

  • July 25, 2026 – Wild Neighbors

  • September 12, 2026 – Fire, Fungi & Other Community Builders

  • October 24, 2026 – Plant Technologies

  • November 21, 2026 – Fish

  • December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities

Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.

We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.

Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?

Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.

What ages is this event appropriate for?

All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!

Interested in Volunteering at this event?

Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!

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Cedar Creek Grist Mill Blueberry Pancake Day
Jul
25

Cedar Creek Grist Mill Blueberry Pancake Day

  • 43907 NE Grist Mill Road Woodland, Washington (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Cedar Creek Grist Mill for Blueberry Pancake Day!

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a historical, water-powered, grain-grinding mill. Volunteers provide demonstrations and bags of fresh-milled flour and cornmeal to guests. Read more

Grist Mill Events: The Grist Mill hosts many free special events during the year — such as the popular cider press — and they all include some good eats! Take a look at our special event list.

Find Events

What will you see at the mill? Our volunteers work the mill, answer questions about the old style milling process and welcome visitors from around the globe. School field trips and senior tours are scheduled for weekdays and the mill is open to visitors on weekends. You can watch the millers mill grain the way it was done in 1876, and take home a bag of fresh flour or cornmeal.

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Crater Glacier Overlook Hike with MSHI Geologist
Jul
26

Crater Glacier Overlook Hike with MSHI Geologist

Immerse yourself in a truly unique and awe-inspiring journey into the breach of the Mount St. Helens crater, 45 years into its geological and ecological change.

This distinctive adventure brings you into the crater of the volcano, following washes, ridges and mountain goat paths to a special viewpoint overlooking the leading edge of Crater Glacier. This trek is specially permitted through MSHI provides a unique vantage point of one of the world's youngest and fastest-growing glaciers, not even known to the public until 2000. While you enjoy a lunch break, listen to the glacier moving and growing as it advances across this landscape in front of you. As you hike under the curious gaze of resident mountain goats, your guides will provide expert interpretation of the natural and historical wonders of this volcanic landscape. This is an MSHI Staff favorite!

This special Crater Glacier overlook hike features a professional geologist to guide you in discovering the eruption through a whole new lens—an unforgettable experience that brings the mountain’s story to life.

For detailed information, visit our Crater Glacier overlook hike program description

  • Is the date you want sold out? Add your name to our guided adventures waitlist and we will let you know if space becomes available.

  • DURATION:   6 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   5-7 miles

  • GUIDE TEAM:   A professional geologist, two professional guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards, all with extensive knowledge of Mount St. Helens

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your hiker is younger, contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $275/person

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides all permits

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE   12

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Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club
Jul
27

Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club

  • Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Audiobook listeners need not walk alone!

Bring your audiobook of choice and meet the Camas Library each month at a new outdoor location for a community walk. We’ll walk for 60 minutes and wrap up with an optional 30 minutes of social time to chat with other book lovers and audio fans.

Walkers of all paces and experience levels are welcome — whether you’re a power walker, stroller pusher, or leisurely listener, there’s space for you here.

Walks are weather-dependent, so please check our social media channels or this event page for updates or cancellations.

Accommodations: The library strives to ensure our events are accessible to everyone. If you require special accommodations to join us, please call 360.834.4692 or email library@cityofcamas.us at least two weeks before the event.

Location Details:

Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607

See map: Google Maps

Contact Info

Name: Stacy Yakouba

Email: library@cityofcamas.us

Phone Number: (360) 834-4692

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Into the Crater Hike with MSHI
Jul
31
to Aug 2

Into the Crater Hike with MSHI

  • Meeting location is at Cascade Peaks Interpretive Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute team for a unique and profound adventure into the crater of an active volcano!

This is a true North American bucket-list experience. Our expert teams of geologists, professional mountain guides and certified volunteer mountain stewards will lead you past hummocks and cinder cones, canyons, pumice fields and lava beds, waterfalls and wildflowers, to the edge of the youngest and fastest-growing glacier in the world. Under the curious gaze of mountain goats you will move carefully through a landscape that has been exposed for only 45 years.

This multi-day adventure begins Friday afternoon and concludes Sunday morning with a day hike on Saturday. We welcome you to our remote Mount St. Helens Field Camp where our Guide Staff and Camp Host will assist you with setting up your campsite, vehicle spot or choosing a cot in our large wall tents. The Host will prepare a delicious dinner catered to your dietary needs and you will be treated to a fireside chat by the geologist. Saturday, you'll rise early and after a hot breakfast, you'll caravan to the trailhead and commence an amazing day of immersive education and exploration of the landscape. Following Saturday’s hike, you're welcomed to stay at camp for dinner and socializing before departing Sunday morning after a full night's rest and a hearty breakfast.

For detailed information, visit our Into the Crater program description.

  • Register today!

  • DURATION:   Three days, two nights; one hiking day of approximately 8 hours

  • DISTANCE:   Approximately 8 miles round trip

  • COST:   $925, includes professional geologists, mountain guides, camp chef and volunteers.

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides special use permit

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   12

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. For younger hikers, contact us to discuss.

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Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Aug
1

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

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Birding Walk at Ridgefield NWR
Aug
1

Birding Walk at Ridgefield NWR

Join Ron Escano for a birding walk at the Ridgefield NWR1

Ron has years of experience guiding local birding groups. Whether you are new to birding, are looking to sharpen your skills, or just hope to find a group to bird with, Ron is a great person to spend a morning with. His pace is relaxed, but thorough, making sure everyone has seen or heard each species.  Ron will help new birders focus on key identification points to build their bird knowledge while sorting through the nuances of sparrow calls for more advanced birders.

Upcoming walks meet at the Carty Unit of the Refuge at 8 am and are limited to 15 people. These generally until noon but you are welcome to stay as long or short as works for you. Walks are free but the $3 refuge daily fee does apply. For more information about the fee and rules of the refuge click here

  • May 2nd

  • June 6th

  • July 4th (TBD)

  • August 1st

Volunteers make it possible to offer public naturalist-led walks about a variety of topics. The following opportunities are listed by walk leader and topic.

For questions and to sign up for the following opportunities send an email to email RidgefieldVolunteer@fws.gov with the following information: 

  1. Name, date, and site of the walk.

  2. Names of all participants.

  3. Phone number.

If a walk is listed as "FULL", you can still email to request to be put onto the waitlist for that walk.

For groups looking for guided tours see the Education Page

Questions that are not answered here or just can't get something to work? Call our office at 360-887-4106. 


View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Aug
2

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Crater Glacier Overlook Hike with MSHI
Aug
2

Crater Glacier Overlook Hike with MSHI

Immerse yourself in a truly unique and awe-inspiring journey into the breach of the Mount St. Helens crater, 45 years into its geological and ecological change.

This distinctive adventure brings you into the crater of the volcano, following washes, ridges and mountain goat paths to a special viewpoint overlooking the leading edge of Crater Glacier. This trek is specially permitted through MSHI provides a unique vantage point of one of the world's youngest and fastest-growing glaciers, not even known to the public until 2000. While you enjoy a lunch break, listen to the glacier moving and growing as it advances across this landscape in front of you. As you hike under the curious gaze of resident mountain goats, your guides will provide expert interpretation of the natural and historical wonders of this volcanic landscape. This is an MSHI Staff favorite!

For detailed information, visit our Crater Glacier overlook hike program description

  • REGISTER HERE!

  • DURATION:   6 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   5-7 miles

  • GUIDE TEAM:   A professional geologist, two professional guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards, all with extensive knowledge of Mount St. Helens

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your hiker is younger, contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $275/person

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides all permits

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE   12

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI
Aug
8

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Birding walk @ Ridgefield NWR
Aug
8

Birding walk @ Ridgefield NWR

Join Robert Vanderkamp for a Birding Walk at the Ridgefield NWR!

Before moving here from Michigan, Robert led bird walks as the President of his Audubon Chapter for 17 years.  He has been watching birds for most of his adult life and lives by the motto “care and share”. He loves talking to people about birds and is excited to host bird walks at the Carty Unit every second Saturday of the month. We will post these a few months at a time to accommodate any needed changes in the schedule. 

Upcoming walks meet at the Carty Unit of the Refuge at 8 am and are limited to 12 people. These generally last two to three hours but you are welcome to stay as long or short as works for you. Walks are free but the $3 refuge daily fee does apply. For more information about the fee and rules of the refuge click here

  • June 13th

  • July 11th

  • August 8th


Volunteers make it possible to offer public naturalist-led walks about a variety of topics. The following opportunities are listed by walk leader and topic.

For questions and REGISTER for walks send an email to email RidgefieldVolunteer@fws.gov with the following information: 

  1. Name, date, and site of the walk.

  2. Names of all participants.

  3. Phone number.

If a walk is listed as "FULL", you can still email to request to be put onto the waitlist for that walk.

For groups looking for guided tours see the Education Page

Questions that are not answered here or just can't get something to work? Call our office at 360-887-4106

View Event →
Crater Glacier Overlook Hike with MSHI
Aug
9

Crater Glacier Overlook Hike with MSHI

Immerse yourself in a truly unique and awe-inspiring journey into the breach of the Mount St. Helens crater, 45 years into its geological and ecological change.

This distinctive adventure brings you into the crater of the volcano, following washes, ridges and mountain goat paths to a special viewpoint overlooking the leading edge of Crater Glacier. This trek is specially permitted through MSHI provides a unique vantage point of one of the world's youngest and fastest-growing glaciers, not even known to the public until 2000. While you enjoy a lunch break, listen to the glacier moving and growing as it advances across this landscape in front of you. As you hike under the curious gaze of resident mountain goats, your guides will provide expert interpretation of the natural and historical wonders of this volcanic landscape. This is an MSHI Staff favorite!

For detailed information, visit our Crater Glacier overlook hike program description

  • REGISTER HERE!

  • DURATION:   6 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   5-7 miles

  • GUIDE TEAM:   A professional geologist, two professional guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards, all with extensive knowledge of Mount St. Helens

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your hiker is younger, contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $275/person

  • PERMITS:   MSHI provides all permits

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE   12

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ROAD TRIP - PCT Trail Days at Cascade Locks
Aug
14
to Aug 15

ROAD TRIP - PCT Trail Days at Cascade Locks

Don’t miss the 19th annual Pacific Crest Trail Days on August 14th & 15th, 2026 at the Marine Park of Cascade Locks, Oregon! 

PCT DAYS celebrates and promotes hiking, camping, backpacking & outdoor stewardship and offers a bit of something for everyone, whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or new to outdoor recreation. 

Over 100 exhibiting sponsors will be offering the latest outdoor products at the Gear Expo & Marketplace.  Attendees can participate in activities, games, presentations, gear raffles, and meet with old and new friends in an amazing setting.  Rain or shine, it’s going to be a great time!

Learn more and see the event schedule at the website HERE.

  • Vendors will be offering great food, coffee, beer, cider and non-alcoholic beverages. 

  • No drone cameras, non-service dogs, glass or alcohol may enter the fenced in festival area. 

  • Daily attendance is free, with a suggested donation of a non-perishable food item or monetary contribution to the Columbia Gorge Food Bank. 

  • Camping is available on Thunder Island for a fee.

  • Connect with us on Instagram & Facebook for the latest festival news!

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Into the Crater Hike with the Mt. St. Helen's Institute
Aug
14
to Aug 16

Into the Crater Hike with the Mt. St. Helen's Institute

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute for a unique and profound adventure into the crater of an active volcano!

This is a true North American bucket-list experience. Our expert teams of geologists, professional mountain guides and certified volunteer mountain stewards will lead you past hummocks and cinder cones, canyons, pumice fields and lava beds, waterfalls and wildflowers, to the edge of the youngest and fastest-growing glacier in the world. Under the curious gaze of mountain goats you will move carefully through a landscape that has been exposed for only 45 years.

This multi-day adventure begins Friday afternoon and concludes Sunday morning with a day hike on Saturday. We welcome you to our remote Mount St. Helens Field Camp where our Guide Staff and Camp Host will assist you with setting up your campsite, vehicle spot or choosing a cot in our large wall tents.

The Host will prepare a delicious dinner catered to your dietary needs and you will be treated to a fireside chat by the geologist. Saturday, you'll rise early and after a hot breakfast, you'll caravan to the trailhead and commence an amazing day of immersive education and exploration of the landscape. Following Saturday’s hike, you're welcomed to stay at camp for dinner and socializing before departing Sunday morning after a full night's rest and a hearty breakfast.

For detailed information, visit our Into the Crater program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION: Three days, two nights; one hiking day of approximately 8 hours

  • DISTANCE: Approximately 8 miles round trip

  • COST: $925, includes professional geologists, mountain guides, camp chef and volunteers.

  • PERMITS: MSHI provides special use permit

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

  • MINIMUM AGE: 10. For younger hikers, contact us to discuss.

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI Geologist!
Aug
15

Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI Geologist!

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

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Sky and Star Party with MSHI
Aug
15
to Aug 16

Sky and Star Party with MSHI

  • Science and Learning Center at Coldwater, (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Mount St. Helens Institute is excited to team up with Rose City Astronomers and Friends of Galileo to bring you the return of our Sky and Star Party.

Sky & Star Party Mount St. Helens is an astronomical adventure with Rose City Astronomers and Friends of Galileo. Tent and RV sites on Coldwater Ridge are available; both are rustic without hookups and have incredible views.

Overnight tickets include tent/RV site with a view and an amazing dark star-filled sky, delicious meals (dinner & dessert Saturday, and breakfast Sunday), crafts, solar viewing, presentations, a constellation walk, and night sky viewing with astronomers.

Evening only tickets include crafts, solar viewing, presentations, a constellation walk, and night sky viewing with astronomers until midnight. No meals are provided.

For detailed information, including sliding scale pricing, visit our sky and star party program description.

If the overnight program is sold out, you can sign up for the evening only or

add your name to the wait list.

Sky and Star Party Overview

  • Who is the Sky and Star Party for?

    • Everyone! All ages are welcome.

    • Youth must be accompanied by an adult and are the responsibility of a parent or guardian at all times.

  • What's included?

    • Campsite for you and your crew (depending on your registration type)

    • Delicious meals (dinner & dessert Saturday and breakfast Sunday)

    • Access to crafts, solar viewing, presentations, constellation walk, and night sky viewing

  • Where is the Sky and Star Party?

    • Field Camp at the Science and Learning Center at Coldwater, 21000 Spirit Lake Highway, Toutle WA 98649

    • Campground includes communal picnic tables, tent pads and a portable toilet. Fires are not permitted. The campground has NO running water.

    • The campsite is within walking distance (~1/4 mile) from the Science and Learning Center, where indoor restrooms with running water are available.

  • What should we bring?

    • Snacks

    • Camping gear, including your tent or RV

    • Your sense of wonder

    • Full packing list here

  • When is the Sky and Star Party?

    • Families can sign in starting at 3 pm of the first day of camp (Saturday)

    • Checkout is by 11 am on the last day of camp (Sunday)

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NEW Silver Trails Community Walk
Aug
19

NEW Silver Trails Community Walk

Parks Foundation of Clark County is with Community in Motion and Vancouver Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services at Luepke Senior Center to launch the new Silver Trails launches May 27!

PFCC is excited to kick off this new walking program for adults 65+ in partnership w/ Vancouver Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services & Community in Motion. The first walk takes place at Orchards Park, w/ monthly outings all summer featuring easy 1–2 mile walks through some of our community’s beautiful parks & trails.

  • Transportation included

  • Easy-paced walks

  • Scenic local destinations

  • Great company

  • Email sean@parksforclark w/ questions.

  • REGISTRATION Required with the City of Vancouver (use the code listed in the table below for the date and location of your choice)

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Mount Adams Car Camp - Logout - WTA Backcountry Response Team
Aug
20
to Aug 23

Mount Adams Car Camp - Logout - WTA Backcountry Response Team

This is a "backcountry" trip where you don't need to hike all your camping gear in!

You will stay at a central car camp, then venture forth on several trails by day to clear them of fallen logs and fix the walking surface.

About the Area: This work party is based on the Southwestern corner of Mount Adams. Trails you work on may include Stagman Ridge, Crofton Ridge, Shorthorn, or Salt Creek trails, and if you get excited about treadwork you may end up on upper Gotchen Creek trail. What these all have in common is that they are in an area burned by the Cascade Creek Fire way back in 2012. It's a delightful area to see fire recovery in process, as well as magnificent views of Mt. Adams as you work.

What to Expect

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference!

Project Description

Depending on your crew makeup, you may split into multiple crews to tackle several trails within a half-hour drive of your camp. Our main objective is to clear fallen logs, but there is also a lot of treadwork that needs to be done if anyone gets tired of sawing and wants to dig in the dirt. About half of your work is inside the Mt Adams Wilderness and half outside, which means that you should be prepared to potentially use both chainsaws and crosscut saws.

Camping and Hiking Information

  • Type: Car Camp

  • Location: Morrison Campground

  • Weather: Be prepared for variable conditions including heat, cold, wind and rain

  • Expected daily hike to project: up to 3.0 miles roundtrip with up to 1000 feet of elevation gain.

Schedule

  • Day 1: Meet the crew rain or shine, then hike in, begin work on the project and set up camp

  • Day 2+: Make breakfast and pack a lunch before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Arrive back in camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew. 

  • Final Day: Break down camp, finish trail project, hike out and say goodbye to the crew at the trailhead

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information

Get ready for a challenging backcountry adventure!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • A great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need for the project

  • Backpacking gear and food for multiple nights on the trail

  • Good physical condition to hike with a fully-loaded backpack and be physically active for about 8-9 hours daily on uneven terrain 

  • Backpacking experience including ability to run your own camp following Leave No Trace principles

  • Day work party experience recommended

  • Flexibility to adapt to changes due to unpredictable weather or land manager requests

  • Minimum age: 18

What to Bring - Required

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots. Review our Logout Boot Guide for more details.

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, safety glasses, or mesh “bug eyes”. Glasses should have wrapping side shields. ANSI Z87.1+)

  • Long pants

  • Long sleeve shirt

Required for Chainsaw Use

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots that are “cut resistant” or leather, laced boots that provide ankle support and nonskid soles.

A hard hat will be provided by WTA if you do not already have a WTA provided hard hat. For chainsaw use, volunteers will be provided with additional PPE (eye protection, ear pro, gloves, and chainsaw chaps). For safety reasons, volunteers who do not have required gear will not be able to participate in the work party.

Backpacking gear

  • Backpack to carry all of your gear

  • Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad

  • Cooking gear and enough food (plus a little extra) for the entire trip

  • At least two 1-liter water bottles and a way to purify your water

  • Rain jacket and rain pants

  • Extra warm clothing

  • Camp clothing such as shorts, shirt and sandals

  • Sun and bug protection

  • Headlamp and extra batteries

  • Personal items such as medication, hand sanitizer and toiletries

  • ​First aid kit

  • A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Trail work gear

  • Boots

  • Long pants 

  • Work gloves

  • Long-sleeved shirt recommended

  • Eye protection recommended such as safety glasses

  • WTA hard hat (provided, unless you have one)

For safety reasons, shorts and sneakers are not allowed while working. Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

A My Backpack account is required. You will be asked to register or log in before you can join.

Join Waitlist

View Event →
Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club
Aug
24

Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club

  • Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Audiobook listeners need not walk alone!

Bring your audiobook of choice and meet the Camas Library each month at a new outdoor location for a community walk. We’ll walk for 60 minutes and wrap up with an optional 30 minutes of social time to chat with other book lovers and audio fans.

Walkers of all paces and experience levels are welcome — whether you’re a power walker, stroller pusher, or leisurely listener, there’s space for you here.

Walks are weather-dependent, so please check our social media channels or this event page for updates or cancellations.

Accommodations: The library strives to ensure our events are accessible to everyone. If you require special accommodations to join us, please call 360.834.4692 or email library@cityofcamas.us at least two weeks before the event.

Location Details:

Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607

See map: Google Maps

Contact Info

Name: Stacy Yakouba

Email: library@cityofcamas.us

Phone Number: (360) 834-4692

View Event →
Mt. St. Helen’s Stewardship Days with MSHI
Aug
26

Mt. St. Helen’s Stewardship Days with MSHI

  • Science and Learning Center at Coldwater (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Stewardship Days with Mount St. Helens Institute offers a series of stewardship days where YOU can support public lands. Join us for a special day of invasive-species removal, with a FREE optional 2.4-mile guided hike on the Hummocks Trail after lunch.

Event Schedule:

  • Invasive Weed Removal 10 am - 1 pm

  • Lunch 1 pm - 2 pm

  • Guided Hummocks Trail Hike 2 pm - 4 pm

Cost: Free, registration is required HERE

Ages: Recommended for ages 10 and older; youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

Choose a date below to learn more and register!

Available Special Event:

Mount St. Helens is located within a National Volcanic Monument, a place set aside to observe how nature responds to a dramatic, geologic event. The ecological systems at Mount St. Helens have surprised us all, with incredible growth and resilience in the decades after the eruption. Alder forests, wildflower meadows, and marshy wetlands are thriving after the eruption.

Are you ready for a challenge? Help us take care of Mount St. Helens by removing invasive weeds with a beautiful view of the volcano, then join us for a guided hike on the Hummocks Trail.

What we’ll do together:

This activity requires walking on uneven, sloping terrain and performing tasks that involve bending, pulling, and lifting. We will be working a short 10-15 minute walk from the Science & Learning Center, which has bathrooms and running water. We will use hand tools to cut and bag noxious weed species.

Optional Guided Hike:

Join us for a post-service guided hike on the Hummocks Trail. This 2.4-mile hike will take us through remnants of the 1980 eruptions and the forests that are returning.

What to bring:

  • Wear long pants and sturdy shoes

  • Come prepared with layers for the weather. This may include sun protection (such as a hat and sunscreen) and/or rain gear.

  • Plenty of water. Water will be available to fill water bottles.

  • Sack lunch. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

  • If you have work gloves, loppers, and eye protection (glasses, safety glasses, or sunglasses), please bring them.

AGES:   Recommended for ages 10 and older; youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:   No experience required; MSHI will provide training and tools

WHERE:   Science and Learning Center at Coldwater

COST:   Free

ACTIVITY LEVEL:   Weeding: Expect to be physically active at your own pace. Guided Hike: 3 miles on trail of varying terrain.

View Event →
Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helen's
Aug
29

Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helen's

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • WHERE:   Mount St. Helens Summer or Winter Climbing Routes

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Cedar Creek Grist Mill Treat Day
Aug
29

Cedar Creek Grist Mill Treat Day

  • 43907 NE Grist Mill Road Woodland, Washington (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Cedar Creek Grist Mill for Treat Day!

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a historical, water-powered, grain-grinding mill. Volunteers provide demonstrations and bags of fresh-milled flour and cornmeal to guests. Read more

Grist Mill Events: The Grist Mill hosts many free special events during the year — such as the popular cider press — and they all include some good eats! Take a look at our special event list.

Find Events

What will you see at the mill? Our volunteers work the mill, answer questions about the old style milling process and welcome visitors from around the globe. School field trips and senior tours are scheduled for weekdays and the mill is open to visitors on weekends. You can watch the millers mill grain the way it was done in 1876, and take home a bag of fresh flour or cornmeal.

View Event →
Mount Adams Mystery Backcountry Tip - WTA Backcountry Response Team
Sep
3
to Sep 6

Mount Adams Mystery Backcountry Tip - WTA Backcountry Response Team

Are you into surprises? This is a mystery BCRT for adventurous spirits.

Our land manager has requested flexibility because though he knows he has a lot of work he needs help with, he's not sure what the highest-priority work will be at this point. It may be logout; it may be a bridge project; it may be miles of treadwork--sign up only if your spirit comes alive with adventure! Total mileage to camp will not exceed 5 miles.

About the Area: The Indian Heavan wilderness is 20,600 acres of broad, rolling country, straddling the crest of the Cascade Range with subalpine meadows and 175 small lakes.

Known to the Native people as "Sahalee Tyee," the area is culturally important to Native Americans. "Indian Heaven" offers visitors wildlife and panoramic views, as well as wildflowers and huckleberries, in season.

**We may not actually be in the Indian Heaven Wilderness, but the most likely options include Indian Heaven or the south side of Mt. Adams**

What to Expect - We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference!

Project Description

Never fear--your crew leader will be in touch as we get more information about where this trip will actually be and what you will actually be doing. What we do know right now is that our Mt. Adams Ranger District staffperson is incredibly short-staffed but has a large list of projects, including bridge repair (if he can get it permitted) and logout that he's hoping for help with. As he gets a sense of what we can move forward with this year, your trip will start to take shape.

Please only register if you are willing to roll with and in fact maybe actively excited about uncertainty!

Camping and Hiking Information

  • Type: Backcountry basecamp 

  • Location: TBD

  • Weather: Be prepared for variable conditions including heat, cold, wind and rain

  • Initial hike to camp: No more than 5 miles with about 1,500 feet of elevation gain at a moderate pace while carrying your backpack fully loaded with all provisions including camping gear and food, plus WTA-provided tools

  • Expected daily hike to project: 1-2 miles roundtrip

Schedule

  • Day 1: Meet the crew rain or shine, then hike in, begin work on the project and set up camp

  • Day 2+: Make breakfast and pack a lunch before heading out on trail with the crew by 8:00 AM. Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. Arrive back in camp by 4:00 or 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening. Prepare your own dinner and swap stories with the crew. 

  • Final Day: Break down camp, finish trail project, hike out and say goodbye to the crew at the trailhead

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information

Get ready for a challenging backcountry adventure!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • A great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need for the project

  • Backpacking gear and food for multiple nights on the trail

  • Good physical condition to hike with a fully-loaded backpack and be physically active for about 8-9 hours daily on uneven terrain 

  • Backpacking experience including ability to run your own camp following Leave No Trace principles

  • Day work party experience recommended

  • Flexibility to adapt to changes due to unpredictable weather or land manager requests

  • Minimum age: 18

What to Bring - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA if you do not already have a WTA provided hard hat. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

Backpacking gear

  • Backpack to carry all of your gear

  • Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad

  • Cooking gear and enough food (plus a little extra) for the entire trip

  • At least two 1-liter water bottles and a way to purify your water

  • Rain jacket and rain pants

  • Extra warm clothing

  • Camp clothing such as shorts, shirt and sandals

  • Sun and bug protection

  • Headlamp and extra batteries

  • Personal items such as medication, hand sanitizer and toiletries

  • ​First aid kit

  • A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Trail work gear

  • Boots

  • Long pants 

  • Work gloves

  • Long-sleeved shirt recommended

  • Eye protection recommended such as safety glasses

  • WTA hard hat (provided, unless you have one)

For safety reasons, shorts and sneakers are not allowed while working. Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

A My Backpack account is required. You will be asked to register or log in before you can join.

Join Waitlist

View Event →
Into the Crater Hike with the Mt. St. Helen's Institute
Sep
4
to Sep 6

Into the Crater Hike with the Mt. St. Helen's Institute

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute for a unique and profound adventure into the crater of an active volcano!

This is a true North American bucket-list experience. Our expert teams of geologists, professional mountain guides and certified volunteer mountain stewards will lead you past hummocks and cinder cones, canyons, pumice fields and lava beds, waterfalls and wildflowers, to the edge of the youngest and fastest-growing glacier in the world. Under the curious gaze of mountain goats you will move carefully through a landscape that has been exposed for only 45 years.

This multi-day adventure begins Friday afternoon and concludes Sunday morning with a day hike on Saturday. We welcome you to our remote Mount St. Helens Field Camp where our Guide Staff and Camp Host will assist you with setting up your campsite, vehicle spot or choosing a cot in our large wall tents.

The Host will prepare a delicious dinner catered to your dietary needs and you will be treated to a fireside chat by the geologist. Saturday, you'll rise early and after a hot breakfast, you'll caravan to the trailhead and commence an amazing day of immersive education and exploration of the landscape. Following Saturday’s hike, you're welcomed to stay at camp for dinner and socializing before departing Sunday morning after a full night's rest and a hearty breakfast.

For detailed information, visit our Into the Crater program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION: Three days, two nights; one hiking day of approximately 8 hours

  • DISTANCE: Approximately 8 miles round trip

  • COST: $925, includes professional geologists, mountain guides, camp chef and volunteers.

  • PERMITS: MSHI provides special use permit

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

  • MINIMUM AGE: 10. For younger hikers, contact us to discuss.

View Event →
Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helen's
Sep
5

Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helen's

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • WHERE:   Mount St. Helens Summer or Winter Climbing Routes

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Base Camp: 21+ with Mt. St. Helen's Institute
Sep
11
to Sep 13

Base Camp: 21+ with Mt. St. Helen's Institute

Base Camp is a rare and exciting opportunity for folks to camp on the north side of Mount St. Helens. 

Bring your camping gear, set up for the weekend, and participate in all the mountain has to offer. Gaze into the blast zone and enjoy grand views in all directions, go on a self-guided adventure, or join us for a guided hike. You can launch all your adventures from Base Camp Mount St. Helens, located at the Science and Learning Center above Coldwater Lake. In the evenings, enjoy dinner with us, learn from our guest speaker, and wind down with a s'more at the community campfire. All meals provided!

For detailed information including sliding scale pricing, visit our base camp program description.

Register today!

  • WHERE:   Science and Learning Center at Coldwater

  • COST:   Sliding Scale

  • ACCOMMODATIONS:   Bring your own tent or RV

  • MEALS:   Provided

View Event →
Into the Crater Hike with the Mt. St. Helen's Institute
Sep
11
to Sep 13

Into the Crater Hike with the Mt. St. Helen's Institute

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute for a unique and profound adventure into the crater of an active volcano!

This is a true North American bucket-list experience. Our expert teams of geologists, professional mountain guides and certified volunteer mountain stewards will lead you past hummocks and cinder cones, canyons, pumice fields and lava beds, waterfalls and wildflowers, to the edge of the youngest and fastest-growing glacier in the world. Under the curious gaze of mountain goats you will move carefully through a landscape that has been exposed for only 45 years.

This multi-day adventure begins Friday afternoon and concludes Sunday morning with a day hike on Saturday. We welcome you to our remote Mount St. Helens Field Camp where our Guide Staff and Camp Host will assist you with setting up your campsite, vehicle spot or choosing a cot in our large wall tents.

The Host will prepare a delicious dinner catered to your dietary needs and you will be treated to a fireside chat by the geologist. Saturday, you'll rise early and after a hot breakfast, you'll caravan to the trailhead and commence an amazing day of immersive education and exploration of the landscape. Following Saturday’s hike, you're welcomed to stay at camp for dinner and socializing before departing Sunday morning after a full night's rest and a hearty breakfast.

For detailed information, visit our Into the Crater program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION: Three days, two nights; one hiking day of approximately 8 hours

  • DISTANCE: Approximately 8 miles round trip

  • COST: $925, includes professional geologists, mountain guides, camp chef and volunteers.

  • PERMITS: MSHI provides special use permit

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

  • MINIMUM AGE: 10. For younger hikers, contact us to discuss.

View Event →
Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helen's
Sep
12

Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helen's

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • WHERE:   Mount St. Helens Summer or Winter Climbing Routes

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Sep
12

Nature Days at Columbia Springs

  • 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA, 98368. (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!

Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!

Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!

Upcoming Nature Days:

  • September 12, 2026 – Fire, Fungi & Other Community Builders

  • October 24, 2026 – Plant Technologies

  • November 21, 2026 – Fish

  • December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities

Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.

We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.

Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?

Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.

What ages is this event appropriate for?

All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!

Interested in Volunteering at this event?

Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!

View Event →
Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helen's
Sep
13

Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helen's

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.

These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.

For detailed information, visit our summit climbs program description.

Register today!

  • WHERE:   Mount St. Helens Summer or Winter Climbing Routes

  • DURATION:   10-12 hours, depending on conditions

  • DISTANCE:   8-10 miles, depending on season

  • PERMITS:   Fee includes a climbing permit.

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Two professional mountain guides and two certified volunteer mountain stewards.

  • MINIMUM AGE:   10. If your climber is younger, please contact us to discuss.

  • COST:   $299

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:   10

View Event →
Into the Crater Hike with the Mt. St. Helen's Institute
Sep
18
to Sep 20

Into the Crater Hike with the Mt. St. Helen's Institute

Join the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute for a unique and profound adventure into the crater of an active volcano!

This is a true North American bucket-list experience. Our expert teams of geologists, professional mountain guides and certified volunteer mountain stewards will lead you past hummocks and cinder cones, canyons, pumice fields and lava beds, waterfalls and wildflowers, to the edge of the youngest and fastest-growing glacier in the world. Under the curious gaze of mountain goats you will move carefully through a landscape that has been exposed for only 45 years.

This multi-day adventure begins Friday afternoon and concludes Sunday morning with a day hike on Saturday. We welcome you to our remote Mount St. Helens Field Camp where our Guide Staff and Camp Host will assist you with setting up your campsite, vehicle spot or choosing a cot in our large wall tents.

The Host will prepare a delicious dinner catered to your dietary needs and you will be treated to a fireside chat by the geologist. Saturday, you'll rise early and after a hot breakfast, you'll caravan to the trailhead and commence an amazing day of immersive education and exploration of the landscape. Following Saturday’s hike, you're welcomed to stay at camp for dinner and socializing before departing Sunday morning after a full night's rest and a hearty breakfast.

For detailed information, visit our Into the Crater program description.

Register today!

  • DURATION: Three days, two nights; one hiking day of approximately 8 hours

  • DISTANCE: Approximately 8 miles round trip

  • COST: $925, includes professional geologists, mountain guides, camp chef and volunteers.

  • PERMITS: MSHI provides special use permit

  • MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

  • MINIMUM AGE: 10. For younger hikers, contact us to discuss.

View Event →
Cedar Creek Grist Mill Cornbread Day
Sep
26

Cedar Creek Grist Mill Cornbread Day

  • 43907 NE Grist Mill Road Woodland, Washington (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Cedar Creek Grist Mill for Cornbread Day!

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a historical, water-powered, grain-grinding mill. Volunteers provide demonstrations and bags of fresh-milled flour and cornmeal to guests. Read more

Grist Mill Events: The Grist Mill hosts many free special events during the year — such as the popular cider press — and they all include some good eats! Take a look at our special event list.

Find Events

What will you see at the mill? Our volunteers work the mill, answer questions about the old style milling process and welcome visitors from around the globe. School field trips and senior tours are scheduled for weekdays and the mill is open to visitors on weekends. You can watch the millers mill grain the way it was done in 1876, and take home a bag of fresh flour or cornmeal.

View Event →
Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club
Sep
28

Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club

  • Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Audiobook listeners need not walk alone!

Bring your audiobook of choice and meet the Camas Library each month at a new outdoor location for a community walk. We’ll walk for 60 minutes and wrap up with an optional 30 minutes of social time to chat with other book lovers and audio fans.

Walkers of all paces and experience levels are welcome — whether you’re a power walker, stroller pusher, or leisurely listener, there’s space for you here.

Walks are weather-dependent, so please check our social media channels or this event page for updates or cancellations.

Accommodations: The library strives to ensure our events are accessible to everyone. If you require special accommodations to join us, please call 360.834.4692 or email library@cityofcamas.us at least two weeks before the event.

Location Details:

Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607

See map: Google Maps

Contact Info

Name: Stacy Yakouba

Email: library@cityofcamas.us

Phone Number: (360) 834-4692

View Event →
BIPOC Series: Beacon Rock Day Trail Work Party
Oct
3

BIPOC Series: Beacon Rock Day Trail Work Party

This BIPOC work party is for folks identifying as Black, Indigenous, People of Color. We will meet at Beacon Rock State Park to learn about the trail building process, the tools of trail work, and then put that knowledge to use on trail!

Beacon Rock State Park is one of the most popular destinations in the Columbia River Gorge. Over the past 8 years WTA volunteers have built three new trails at the park: Hardy Ridge, Bridge Trail, and the River To Rock Trail.

Hamilton Mt. was built by the Civilian Conversation Corps and is now largely maintained by volunteer crews.

No experience is necessary.

Project Description: We will meet at the shelter at Hamilton Mountain trailhead to learn about the trail building process, the tools of trail work, and then we will put that knowledge to use on trail! Activities may include pruning back overgrown vegetation, digging new paths for water to flow off the trail, or repairing/replacing old structures. We may also restore the tread - this involves digging the trail surface to the proper width and slope as well as removing organic material, protruding rocks and roots.

Hiking Information: Our hike to the project site is expected to be 2-4 miles roundtrip over moderately steep terrain.

Schedule

  • 8:30 AM: Be ready to sign in and meet the crew, rain or shine

  • 8:35 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:30 PM: Sign out after enjoying refreshments at the trailhead

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Special Event

This BIPOC work party is for folks identifying as Black, Indigenous, People of Color. 

More information will be added to this page as we get closer to the event.

Planning Information

Get ready for a great day outside with a BIPOC Crew!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours on uneven terrain

  • 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 - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

Join Work Party

View Event →
Mushroom Foraging with Mt. St. Helen's Institute
Oct
3

Mushroom Foraging with Mt. St. Helen's Institute

Come explore the magical kingdom of fungi with the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute!

Learn how to identify common characteristics of wild edible and inedible mushrooms. Then learn how to harvest many different types of edible mushrooms and cook them into delicious dishes. Plan to get your shoes and hands dirty as you discover the forest's most striking and sometimes delectable offerings.
For detailed information, visit our Mushroom Foraging program description.

Register today!

  • WHERE:   Pine Creek Information Center

  • DURATION:   Approximately 6 hours

  • DISTANCE:   Approximately 1 mile of off-trail forest walking

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Mycology instructor, professional guide and three volunteers

  • MINIMUM AGE:   8 (minors must be accompanied by an adult)

  • COST:   $125/person

  • PERMITS:   Each participant needs to bring their own free mushroom permit. Instructions provided.

View Event →
Mushroom Foraging with Mt. St. Helen's Institute
Oct
11

Mushroom Foraging with Mt. St. Helen's Institute

Come explore the magical kingdom of fungi with the Mt. St. Helen’s Institute!

Learn how to identify common characteristics of wild edible and inedible mushrooms. Then learn how to harvest many different types of edible mushrooms and cook them into delicious dishes. Plan to get your shoes and hands dirty as you discover the forest's most striking and sometimes delectable offerings.
For detailed information, visit our Mushroom Foraging program description.

Register today!

  • WHERE:   Pine Creek Information Center

  • DURATION:   Approximately 6 hours

  • DISTANCE:   Approximately 1 mile of off-trail forest walking

  • GUIDE TEAM:   Mycology instructor, professional guide and three volunteers

  • MINIMUM AGE:   8 (minors must be accompanied by an adult)

  • COST:   $125/person

  • PERMITS:   Each participant needs to bring their own free mushroom permit. Instructions provided.

View Event →
Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Oct
24

Nature Days at Columbia Springs

  • 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA, 98368. (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!

Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!

Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!

Upcoming Nature Days:

  • October 24, 2026 – Plant Technologies

  • November 21, 2026 – Fish

  • December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities

Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.

We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.

Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?

Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.

What ages is this event appropriate for?

All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!

Interested in Volunteering at this event?

Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!

View Event →
Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club
Oct
26

Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club

  • Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Audiobook listeners need not walk alone!

Bring your audiobook of choice and meet the Camas Library each month at a new outdoor location for a community walk. We’ll walk for 60 minutes and wrap up with an optional 30 minutes of social time to chat with other book lovers and audio fans.

Walkers of all paces and experience levels are welcome — whether you’re a power walker, stroller pusher, or leisurely listener, there’s space for you here.

Walks are weather-dependent, so please check our social media channels or this event page for updates or cancellations.

Accommodations: The library strives to ensure our events are accessible to everyone. If you require special accommodations to join us, please call 360.834.4692 or email library@cityofcamas.us at least two weeks before the event.

Location Details:

Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607

See map: Google Maps

Contact Info

Name: Stacy Yakouba

Email: library@cityofcamas.us

Phone Number: (360) 834-4692

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Cedar Creek Grist Mill Apple Cedar Press Day
Oct
31

Cedar Creek Grist Mill Apple Cedar Press Day

  • 43907 NE Grist Mill Road Woodland, Washington (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Cedar Creek Grist Mill for Cornbread Day!

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a historical, water-powered, grain-grinding mill. Volunteers provide demonstrations and bags of fresh-milled flour and cornmeal to guests. Read more

Grist Mill Events: The Grist Mill hosts many free special events during the year — such as the popular cider press — and they all include some good eats! Take a look at our special event list.

Find Events

What will you see at the mill? Our volunteers work the mill, answer questions about the old style milling process and welcome visitors from around the globe. School field trips and senior tours are scheduled for weekdays and the mill is open to visitors on weekends. You can watch the millers mill grain the way it was done in 1876, and take home a bag of fresh flour or cornmeal.

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Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Nov
21

Nature Days at Columbia Springs

  • 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA, 98368. (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!

Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!

Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!

Upcoming Nature Days:

  • November 21, 2026 – Fish

  • December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities

Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.

We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.

Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?

Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.

What ages is this event appropriate for?

All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!

Interested in Volunteering at this event?

Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!

View Event →
Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club
Nov
23

Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club

  • Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Audiobook listeners need not walk alone!

Bring your audiobook of choice and meet the Camas Library each month at a new outdoor location for a community walk. We’ll walk for 60 minutes and wrap up with an optional 30 minutes of social time to chat with other book lovers and audio fans.

Walkers of all paces and experience levels are welcome — whether you’re a power walker, stroller pusher, or leisurely listener, there’s space for you here.

Walks are weather-dependent, so please check our social media channels or this event page for updates or cancellations.

Accommodations: The library strives to ensure our events are accessible to everyone. If you require special accommodations to join us, please call 360.834.4692 or email library@cityofcamas.us at least two weeks before the event.

Location Details:

Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607

See map: Google Maps

Contact Info

Name: Stacy Yakouba

Email: library@cityofcamas.us

Phone Number: (360) 834-4692

View Event →
Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Dec
19

Nature Days at Columbia Springs

  • 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA, 98368. (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!

Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!

Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!

  • December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities

Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.

We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.

Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?

Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.

What ages is this event appropriate for?

All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!

Interested in Volunteering at this event?

Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!

View Event →

Spring Geology Hike to Larch Mountain Crater
May
23

Spring Geology Hike to Larch Mountain Crater

Join the Friends of the Columbia Gorge (Columbia River) outdoor guide & Friends board member Jayson Moorman for an adventure through old-growth forest ablaze with spring colors.

Before you register:

  • Read our Liability Waiver. You will be asked to check a box acknowledging you read the waiver during registration._

  • Confirm your availability. Due to limited spots, and to be respectful of everyone's time, please only register for this event if you can commit to attending.

  • Difficulty level: Moderate: 6 mile loop with ~1,200-feet elevation gain

Starting from Sherrard Point at the top of Larch Mountain, we’ll descend into the ‘crater,’ home to the sparkling headwaters of Multnomah Creek, before completing the loop trail. The hike concludes back at Sherrard Point with a breathtaking panoramic view of five major volcanic peaks.

What you can expect on this guided outing:

A peaceful slow paced hike through shaded forest trails, where you’ll explore the area’s geology and keep watch for wildflowers, fungi, frogs, and salamanders. We will stop to learn about what we see along the way.

Hazards:

  • Portions of this trail are semi-rugged, with exposed roots, rocky scree, and steep sections. Hiking poles are recommended to help with both the ascent and descent.

  • View the recommended 10+ Essentials List to help you pack.

What to Bring:

  • Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water (1 liter for every two hours)

  • 10+ Essentials in backpack

  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

  • Hiking poles (helpful when navigating the rocky area.)

What to Wear:

  • Sturdy, closed-toe shoes, or boots.

  • Durable and protective clothing for rocky terrain.

  • Dress for weather: Be ready to shed layers in hot temperatures, or layer up in case of cold and rainy weather.

Schedule:

Fee: A valid Northwest Forest Recreation Pass is required at Larch Mountain trailhead. You can purchase a $5 per vehicle per day use pass or Annual pass, for more information click here.

Restrooms: Nearest restroom located at Larch Mountain Trailhead.

Property: U.S. Forest Service.

A confirmation email with outing details will be sent out 2-3 days before the event.

Questions? Please contact hikes@gorgefriends.org.

Accessibility: Have accessibility questions? Reply to your registration email to confirm your requirements or request more information.

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Bird Walk at Ridgefield NWR with Backyard Bird Shop
May
23

Bird Walk at Ridgefield NWR with Backyard Bird Shop

Located around the town of Ridgefield, Washington, this wildlife refuge is a great place to see throngs of wintering Tundra Swans, Canada Geese, Sandhill Cranes and many raptors.

To accompany Elaine on the bird walk, we ask that you register in advance by phoning the Vancouver shop at 503-445-2699, press 5.  We’ll meet at the parking lot at 8:00 a.m.  The walk will last 2 – 3 hours.  Advance reservations are required—we limit the number of participants to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and educational experience.  Dress for the weather, and, please, no pets!

Ridgefield NWR – Carty Unit (*$3 parking fee) – 28908 NW Main Ave. Ridgefield WA 98642: Meet in the parking lot at 8am.

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Young Birders to WSU Vancouver with VAS
May
23

Young Birders to WSU Vancouver with VAS

Join the Vancouver Audubon Society for a guided walk at the WSU Vancouver Campus!

We will park and meet at the Grey Lot and walk into the natural areas. Starting time will be 8:00 am. Be sure to sign up for Young Birders, if you haven't already done this, so your email information is available.

Check your email for updates on the walk, especially if the weather is predicted to be uncooperative. We will be walking for around 2 miles on easy trails will virtually no slope. Vancouver Audubon will supply binoculars for all participants needing them.

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"Hike the State" (WA) with WTA workshop
May
21

"Hike the State" (WA) with WTA workshop

Join the Washington Trails Association to get inspiration for your outdoor adventures this year!

WTA staff will share fresh hiking recommendations and pro tips for planning great hiking experiences. There’s a little something for everyone at Hike the State. Whether you’re a multi-day backpacker or a neighborhood wanderer, join us and add something new to your hiking list.

Register HERE for this free on-line workshop

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"Hike the State 2026" WTA's On-line Summer Kick-Off
May
21

"Hike the State 2026" WTA's On-line Summer Kick-Off

Washington Trails Association staff help you find and plan your next great adventure! Come away with 10+ hike ideas and tips for having a great hiking year.

Join WTA online to get inspiration for your summer hiking season. With 10 hike recommendations and hiking tips from WTA staff, there's something for everyone at Hike the State.

The WTA team is excited to help you find hikes and adventures that range from stunning views and alpine lakes to easygoing, lush river walks. In one jam-packed hour, we'll share plenty of ideas you'll want to add to your hiking list and help you prepare for the hiking season ahead. 

Register today!

Hike the State is a free, annual event hosted by WTA, a nonprofit committed to a future with trails for everyone, forever.

This year, attendees will hear from these four WTA staff member experts: 

  • Nicole Masih-Théberge (she/her) - Senior Community Engagement Coordinator - Nicole grew up hiking and camping all around the Pacific Northwest. She has spent her career working in a variety of roles for nonprofits in youth development, volunteer management and grant writing. Leading several camping and hiking trips while working for Girl Scouts of Western Washington further ignited her excitement for increasing access to nature and outdoor recreation. Nicole is passionate about environmental and social justice and is thrilled to be working with WTA to support and grow community engagement with the outdoors. When she’s not working, you can usually find her on a walk, reading, or cooking. 

  • Maryjo "MJ" Mahan (she/her) - Senior Community Partnerships and Leadership Development Coordinator - Maryjo, also known as MJ, was born and raised in the Bay Area but is now settling into her PNW roots. After graduating from UC San Diego with a B.S. in Physiology and Neuroscience she worked in academic research for several years. She is a certified Environmental and Outdoor Educator from California’s Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (AEOE) and has worked with various nonprofit organizations focused on environmental justice and empowering BIPOC youth through the outdoors. Her true passion is to continuously create equitable and accessible outdoor programs for underrepresented youth and communities. MJ's hobbies include reading, running, hiking, birding, silly dancing, playing ultimate frisbee, and talking about and watching sports (Golden State Warriors specifically). If she's not doing any of those, you can likely find her drinking kombucha and sitting in a camp chair by a body of water. 

  • Brandon Tigner - Senior North Puget Sound Trails Coordinator - Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Brandon discovered his passion for the outdoors first as a volunteer and then as an assistant crew leader with the Maine Appalachian Trail Crew. Making his way to the Pacific Northwest he WWOOFed on an organic farm, conducted salmonid life cycle surveys and worked construction. Jumping back into the trail world, Brandon spent two incredible seasons with WTA as the Southwest Regional Trail Crew Leader before joining Trailkeepers of Oregon as their North Coast Stewardship Coordinator. Brandon is excited to be back with WTA working in the majestic Cascade Mountains as well as the North Puget Sound Region! Brandon’s other passions include playing guitar, eating pizza, and adventuring with his family! 

  • Cassidy Giampetro (she/her) - Advocacy Manager - Cassidy experienced a true calling to the mountains when she moved to Washington in 2017 from flat Miami, Florida. She has served in a number of roles leveraging partnership-based work for community development and environmental policy outcomes, including previously leading a King County coalition and mobilizing voters during elections. Cassidy is passionate about environmental justice and strengthening equitable access to nature. She is excited to bring this experience to WTA to get more voices active and heard in the hiking community. She is a lover of biodiversity, wildlife, and sweets! 

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Cook Hill Loop Hike with Mazamas
May
21

Cook Hill Loop Hike with Mazamas

Join the Mazamas for this spectacular hike in the Gorge!

Cook Hill, just to the east of Dog Mountain, serves as the latter’s poor cousin, but if you want solitude and an abundance of wildflower species in the spring, this is the place to go to avoid Dog’s crowds although it cannot quite replicate the spectacular meadow displays. The hike is all on unofficial trails and old road beds on public land save for a section of the ridge at the Cook Hill Saddle, which belongs to Broughton Lumber. There are two meadows to cross, a steep smaller meadow and the lengthy summit meadow, which has seen some grazing in the past. While all of the slopes were logged sometime in the 20th century, the forest wildflowers match those of the meadows in abundance and diversity. Note that the trail section which leads to the summit, constructed by Gorge activist Russ Jolley, can disappear in places as new growth engulfs it in the spring. The first time you're here, hike the loop counterclockwise as described to avoid the chance of losing Russ Jolley’s trail. When you return, you can go clockwise to get full frontal views of the Gorge as you descend from the summit of Cook Hill. There is no signage, but the routes are cleared by volunteers, usually every year.

http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Cook_Hill_Loop_Hike

Activity Notes: We'll hopefully enjoy some beautiful views of the Gorge in the golden light of the evening sun. We'll maintain a steady 2-2.5 mph pace uphill.

Registration is required HERE.

[Photo source: WTA trail report]

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Beacon Rock Trail Day Work Party
May
14

Beacon Rock Trail Day Work Party

Spend a day or the weekend to help support Washington Trail Assocation's quest to maintain all of Beacon Rock!

Camping is available on Saturday evening if you would like to volunteer both days.

Beacon Rock State Park is one of the most popular destinations in the Columbia River Gorge. Over the past 8 years WTA volunteers have built three new trails at the park: Hardy Ridge, Bridge Trail, and the River To Rock Trail.

Hamilton Mt. was built by the Civilian Conversation Corps and is now largely maintained by volunteer crews.

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.

Project Description: You will meet at the Equestrian Trailhead at 8:30 then consolidate vehicles to pass through the locked gate to get closer to Upper Hardy Creek trail. There are multiple trees down as well as many tread issues to fix. Depending on what State Parks needs, a small crew may also peel off to help fix a washout on the Hamilton Mountain trail.

Hiking Information

Our hike to the project site will depend, but should not be more that 3 miles round trip.

Schedule

  • 8:25 AM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine!

  • 8:30 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then caravan in to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:30 PM: Enjoy refreshments at the trailhead before making your way home

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 a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours on uneven terrain

  • 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 - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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

From the Hiking Guide:

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

Join Waitlist

View Event →
Bird Walk with VAS
May
11

Bird Walk with VAS

vancouver.audubon:

Watch for the flash of Bullock’s Orioles, listen for calls of Western Wood-Pewees, and hope for glimpses of whatever odd birds the river turns up (or perhaps whatever Caspian Terns up)!

Join Vancouver Audubon Society on May 11th at Captain William Clark Park in Washougal where we will journey along the banks of the Columbia River beneath towering cottonwoods to witness the steady stream of birds that spring migration brings.

Meet at the parking lot on the northeast side of the stairs and park restrooms near the intersection of S 32nd & Index St. The walk will cover a total distance of around 2 miles at a leisurely pace on pavement, gravel, and sand. The trail is mostly flat except for a ~10% grade as we traverse the levee heading into and out of the park. There is the potential for scopes to be useful when looking out over the river, but they are by no means a requirement.

Registration is encouraged so we can keep you up to date in the event of any changes or postponements such as those that may be caused by inclement weather.

Bird Walks are meant to be a casual, local morning of birding. They are a great time to enjoy birds with others, find new areas to visit, and/or work on bird identification by sight and sound or to practice your eBird app with help when needed. These walks are usually easy to join or depart at any time during the morning, no commitment to participate in the entire walk if you have limited time.

To register go directly to vancouveraudubon.org/bird-walks-field-trips
--
Photos
: Western Wood Pewee and Wilson's Warbler by Ken Pitts/Vancouver Audubon; Pileated Woodpecker and Double-crested Cormorant by Kiara Way/Vancouver Audubon

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Cape Horn Trail Hike
May
10

Cape Horn Trail Hike

Join the Washington Native Plant Society at the Cape Horn trail, to hike from Salmon Falls Rd Park-n-Ride lot to Nancy Russell Overlook and back.

This is a moderate to strenuous hike of 5.0 miles round trip with 700’ elevation gain and some difficult footing.

Lush woods, fantastic views and a wealth of spring wildflowers.

To register, just email Ron Klump at klumpton@gmail.com

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ROAD TRIP - WIldflower hike Upper Swale Creek Canyon, WA
May
10

ROAD TRIP - WIldflower hike Upper Swale Creek Canyon, WA

Join the Washington Native Plant Society Suksdorfia Chapter for Upper Swale Creek Canyon hike (from Harms Road Trailhead)

Beginning from Harms Road the trail takes you into the heart of Swale Canyon, one of the most remote sections of the Klickitat Rail Trail.  Follow the banks of Swale Creek as it heads west through a wide, flat landscape to the narrower confines of Swale Canyon. Here the creek flows quietly between canyon rimrock and balsamroot-carpeted slopes to the cascading calls of canyon wrens. This beautiful trail is a wildflower paradise…camas, numerous varieties of desert-parsley, rabbitbrush, sedge, oak, elderberry and so much more.

  • Moderate walking route, 5 miles roundtrip with 200’ elevation gain.  

  • Meet at the Klickitat Trailhead in Lyle, WA at 8:30 a.m. and plan to caravan to the trailhead.  

  • Trip is limited to 12 people.

  • To sign up for the trip or for more information contact Kim Gilmer at gilmerno.1@gmail.com.

Please join us in visiting French’s farms in Lyle after the hike to check out their wonderful selection of native plants and homemade ice cream.

View Event →
Beacon Rock Trail Day Work Party
May
10

Beacon Rock Trail Day Work Party

Spend a day or the weekend to help support Washington Trail Assocation's quest to maintain all of Beacon Rock!

Camping is available on Saturday evening if you would like to volunteer both days.

Beacon Rock State Park is one of the most popular destinations in the Columbia River Gorge. Over the past 8 years WTA volunteers have built three new trails at the park: Hardy Ridge, Bridge Trail, and the River To Rock Trail.

Hamilton Mt. was built by the Civilian Conversation Corps and is now largely maintained by volunteer crews.

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.

Project Description: You will meet at the Equestrian Trailhead at 8:30 then consolidate vehicles to pass through the locked gate to get closer to Upper Hardy Creek trail. There are multiple trees down as well as many tread issues to fix. Depending on what State Parks needs, a small crew may also peel off to help fix a washout on the Hamilton Mountain trail.

Hiking Information

Our hike to the project site will depend, but should not be more that 3 miles round trip.

Schedule

  • 8:25 AM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine!

  • 8:30 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then caravan in to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:30 PM: Enjoy refreshments at the trailhead before making your way home

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 a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours on uneven terrain

  • 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 - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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

From the Hiking Guide:

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

Join Waitlist

View Event →
ROAD TRIP - Conboy Lake NWR hike with WNPS
May
9

ROAD TRIP - Conboy Lake NWR hike with WNPS

The Willard Springs Foot Trail is a 3.8-mile loop along the edge of the open marsh and into the pines.  Beginning at the refuge headquarters, it parallels the west shore of  Conboy Lake, with views across the lakebed and north to Mount Adams. 

The trail is mostly flat with a couple gentle grades on the return, but is not considered ADA accessible.  The different habitats along the trail provide a diverse variety of wildflower species.  In addition to the wildflowers, we may possibly see sandhill cranes, which nest in the refuge. 

  • This is a joint hike with the Suksdorf Chapter of the WA Native Plant Society (WNPS) and the Portland Chapter (NPSO). 

  • To sign up for the hike or for more info contact Ron Klump at klumpron@gmail.com 


From Recreation.gov: The refuge is a haven for plants and animals, supporting Washington's largest and healthiest populations of Oregon coyote-thistle, rosy owl-clover, Kellogg's rush, dwarf rush and long-bearded sego lily. A blend of oak, pine and aspen forests, wetlands, grassy prairies and streams supports a diverse and plentiful wildlife community. The rich habitat diversity sustains thriving populations of migrating waterfowl and songbirds. The rare Oregon spotted frog breeds in wetlands throughout the refuge. Elk are plentiful and frequently seen along refuge roads. And Conboy Lake supports the only breeding population of greater Sandhill cranes in Washington, around 25 pairs.

While the scenery and the plentiful, charismatic wildlife are what draw people in, visitors soon discover that Conboy Lake NWR offers hidden treats, esoteric gems that will keep them returning for years. Elk and deer may be the stars, but visitors soon learn about—and come to appreciate—Oregon spotted frogs, nesting greater Sandhill cranes and the variety of rare plants found on the refuge. A quiet place outside of hunting seasons, solitude is an easily found commodity and greatly appreciated by those coming from bustling metropolitan areas. As a national wildlife refuge, this living system will satisfy your longing for splendor and serenity, just as it did for the indigenous peoples, explorers, loggers and ranchers who were first drawn to the valley’s plentiful resources.

And history is an important part of Conboy Lake. Native Americans once depended on the area's plentiful resources; in fact, they still do, collecting plants for food and religious purposes. These same resources drew settlers to the area, arriving in the 1870s. One of the early homes, the Whitcomb-Cole Hewn Log House, still stands and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You are invited to stroll through the house and imagine the struggles these early settlers faced.

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ROAD TRIP - Birding & Wildflower Festival at Silver Falls State Park
May
9
to May 10

ROAD TRIP - Birding & Wildflower Festival at Silver Falls State Park

Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival @ Silver Falls State Park, OR

Explore the bountiful birds and wonderful wildflowers of Silver Falls State Park in this beloved annual tradition. All activities are free. Most activities take place in the South Falls District, with some walks in other parts of the park.

  • 7:30 am: Early bird walk (Saturday: 2.6 mile Maple Ridge Loop, meet at South Falls Stone Circle. Sunday: 2.2 mile North Rim walk, meet at North Canyon Trailhead)

  • 10:30 am: Budding Birders Junior Ranger Program (Lodge patio, 45 min)

  • 11 am: Wildflower walk (Stone Circle, ½ mile, 1 hour)

  • 11 am: Live raptor presentation (tent near Stone Circle, no dogs allowed)

  • 12 pm: Wildflower walk (Stone Circle, ½ mile, 1 hour)

  • 12:30 pm: Budding Birders Junior Ranger Program (Lodge patio, 45 min)

  • 1 pm: Family birding walk (Stone Circle, ½ mile, 1 hour)

  • 1 pm: Live raptor presentation (tent near Stone Circle, no dogs allowed)

  • 2 pm: Wildflower Walk (Stone Circle, ½ mile, 1 hour)

  • 3 pm: Afternoon birding walk (Saturday: 1 mile walk on the Howard Creek Trail, meet at Smith Creek Village. Sunday: 1 mile walk on the Nature Trail, meet in Campground)

Ongoing activities, 10 am – 4 pm:

  • Wildflower Show in the Stone Kitchen Shelter

  • Plant a native plant seed with the Native Plant Society outside the Stone Kitchen Shelter

  • Native plant sale and Oregon wild bee table at the Nature Store 

  • Bird observation discovery table at the Stone Circle

  • Crafts in the South Falls Lodge courtyard

For more information, contact park ranger Matt Palmquist at matt.palmquist@oprd.oregon.gov or (503) 689-5122.

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Beacon Rock Trail Day Work Party
May
9

Beacon Rock Trail Day Work Party

Spend a day or the weekend to help support Washington Trail Assocation's quest to maintain all of Beacon Rock!

Camping is available on Saturday evening if you would like to volunteer both days.

Beacon Rock State Park is one of the most popular destinations in the Columbia River Gorge. Over the past 8 years WTA volunteers have built three new trails at the park: Hardy Ridge, Bridge Trail, and the River To Rock Trail.

Hamilton Mt. was built by the Civilian Conversation Corps and is now largely maintained by volunteer crews.

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.

Project Description: You will meet at the Equestrian Trailhead at 8:30 then consolidate vehicles to pass through the locked gate to get closer to Upper Hardy Creek trail. There are multiple trees down as well as many tread issues to fix. Depending on what State Parks needs, a small crew may also peel off to help fix a washout on the Hamilton Mountain trail.

Hiking Information

Our hike to the project site will depend, but should not be more that 3 miles round trip.

Schedule

  • 8:25 AM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine!

  • 8:30 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then caravan in to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:30 PM: Enjoy refreshments at the trailhead before making your way home

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 a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours on uneven terrain

  • 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 - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • 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

From the Hiking Guide: See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

Join Waitlist

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Mt. St. Helens, Swift Creek Worm Flows Climb with Mazamas
May
9

Mt. St. Helens, Swift Creek Worm Flows Climb with Mazamas

Starting with May 1 climbs, Climb Registration Fee includes Mt. St. Helens Permit Fee ($22/person).

This route is open year round from the Marble Mountain Snow Park, so it's usually used for early season ascents. It's about 1,000 more vertical feet than Monitor ridge. Snow can be soft early season due to the low starting elevation, so bring skis or snowshoes in case. St. Helens is one of the lower and technically easier glaciated peaks in the Pacific NW, but still a strenuous climb as the starting elevation is relatively low. The peak is often underestimated; exposure and route finding challenges in low visibility can make this peak a serious as any in the Northwest. Watch out for the cornices on the summit crater!

This is a classic NW ski climb, with long open runs, minimal avy danger, and no crevasses. This can be a nice overnight trip as well - ski in, make camp, and hike up for some tele turns.

Permits and Stuff: St Helens is one of the most heavily regulated peaks in the US. See the Gifford Pinchot National Forest web site for current permit regulations, SnoPark permit required between Nov 15 and April 30.

Activity Notes

Let's Climb! This is the winter route of Mt. St. Helens. It's a great first snow climb. Conditions are ever changing and may require and ice axe and crampons. 

Registration required HERE


The Mazamas are a Portland-based community who hike, climb, host classes, and more. Members have been inspiring others to love and protect the mountains for more than 130 years through adventure, learning, leadership development, and stewardship.

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Forest Canopy Walk at Plas Newydd
May
8

Forest Canopy Walk at Plas Newydd

“If you pay attention, you can tell time by the forest canopy—twigs and seeds, branches and leaves marking seasons with color, fullness, sway.”  – Abby Braithwaite, A Portrait of the Artist as a Crone Tree. 

Canopy Time walks are mostly monthly walks/rolls/rides on Plas Newydd Farm (register at this link). Hosted by Abby Braithwaite and David Morgan (and some surprise guests), these adventures give us the chance to explore some of the most beautiful places on the farm, and provide a deeper opportunity to feel the rhythms of the land, observe the comings and goings of migratory birds, watch the bud and bloom of native and invasive plants, swat mosquitoes, and dodge raindrops! 

Part nature journaling, part phenological record-keeping, these explorations are a great way to spend more time out on the land than some of our workshops allow. 

Bring your journal, your sketchbook, your camera and your senses. 

Suggested Donation of $10 collected on the farm. We’ll take cash, check, Venmo or a smile, if cost is a barrier! 

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ROAD TRIP - Cape Disappointment - Coastal Forest Loop Volunteer Vacation with WTA
May
7
to May 13

ROAD TRIP - Cape Disappointment - Coastal Forest Loop Volunteer Vacation with WTA

Join this crew to spend a week doing beachside trailwork in Cape Disappointment State Park while staying in historic lodging in nearby Fort Columbia State Park.

This crew will build on the work of other day work parties to construct stairs on the Coastal Forest Loop trail. Volunteers will stay in the historic Scarborough and Steward houses in the nearby Fort Columbia State Park where they will make meals together.

About the Area: There are a plethora of small trails at Cape Disappointment, but this one may be the least well-known. Tucked off of Spur Road 100, the opposite direction from the camping area, the Coastal Forest Loop offers a chance to experience the signature environment of this area in either a half mile or mile and a half loop. Be sure to snag the brochure offered at the park office with interpretive information corresponding to posts along the way.

Project Description: This crew will continue construction work on stairs on the far side of the loop. This will require a lot of hauling gravel using heavy equipment like motorized wheelbarrows (toters) and plenty of manual hauling using buckets and straps.

Construction will use electric and gas powered drills and saws. It's a slow process to get everything level and properly set. There is also lots of dirt work to be done to prepare soil for stairs.

The crew may also do general annual maintenance on the trail including: pruning back overgrown vegetation, digging draingage channels, and repairing the walking surface.

Camping and Hiking Information:

  • Location: Fort Columbia State Park: Scarborough House and Steward's House

  • The houses have a total of 6 bedrooms with a combination of queen/twin size beds. Volunteers may be required to share rooms.

  • Due to State Park regulations, camping in vehicles or tents outside of the houses is not permitted.

  • Bathroom/Shower available

  • Coastal Loop Trail is 1.4 miles total

  • The project is on the far side of the loop and may require several trips to haul materials

Schedule:

  • Day 1 (Thurs): Meet the crew rain or shine, and then set up camp. Scout the project and possibly start some work.

  • Day 2-3 (Fri-Sat): Trail work day. Gather for breakfast (7:00 AM) then hike or drive to the project site (8:00 AM). Work at your own pace, take plenty of breaks and enjoy lunch on the trail. By 3:00 PM, hike back to camp to enjoy snacks and unwind before dinner (6:00 PM). Help with a different camp chore each day including meal preparation and cleanup.

  • Day 4 (Sun): Day off to relax and explore your beautiful surroundings

  • Day 5-6 (Mon-Tue): Trail work day

  • Day 7 (Wed): Break down camp, head out and say goodbye

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information:

Get ready for a great vacation!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • A great attitude for working with a team

  • Camping gear and trail work gear; WTA provides training, tools and great food

  • Good physical condition to be physically active for about 7 hours daily on uneven terrain

  • Day work party experience recommended

  • Flexibility to adapt to changes due to unpredictable weather or land manager requests

  • Minimum age: 18

What to Bring - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA if you do not already have a WTA provided hart hat. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

In addition to the items listed above, bring the following personal gear:

  • WTA hard hat

  • Work gloves

  • At least two 1-liter water bottles and a coffee mug

  • Rain jacket and rain pants

  • Extra warm clothing

  • Camp clothing such as shorts, shirt and sandals

  • Sun and bug protection

  • Headlamp and extra batteries

  • Personal items such as medication, hand sanitizer and toiletries

  • ​First aid kit

  • Day pack recommended

  • A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

State Park Lodging will provide bed linens, pillows, and towels. You are welcome to bring additional towels and blankets if you see fit. All cooking equipment will be provided by WTA to cook inside the house.

A hard hat will be provided by WTA if you do not already have a WTA provided hart hat. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own.

More Information:

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

A My Backpack account is required. You will be asked to register or log in before you can join.

Join Work Party

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Dog Mountain Hike with Mazamas
May
7

Dog Mountain Hike with Mazamas

Join the Mazamas for a hike with beautiful views, amazing spring wildflowers, and a relatively short effort, this is one of the most popular hikes in the Gorge. On a good day, you can get a view of Mt. Hood and the Columbia River.

The famous flowers on Dog Mountain peak on Mother's Day, but four days before on a Thursday we won't have to tend with permits or crowds. This should be nobody's first hike of spring, as parts of our 2,750' ascent over 6.9 miles are steep. We will take the easternmost fork on the way up and then take the Augspurger Trail down, for the typical counterclockwise loop. 

Every vehicle parked at the trailhead will need to display a federal pass (NW Forest, America the Beautiful, or senior).

Good resources: WTA Portland Hikers

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Author Event: Hiking WA’s Fire Lookouts
May
3

Author Event: Hiking WA’s Fire Lookouts

whiteoakbooksllc

Are you a hiker? Nature enthusiast? Do you like magnificent views? We have just the authors and books for you!

White Oaks Books in Uptown Vancouver will be hosting Amber Casali and Cheryl Hill on Sunday, May 3rd at 3:30PM. They are the authors of “Hiking Washington’s Fire Lookouts” and “Hiking Oregon’s Fire Lookouts”, respectively.

Amber Casali was born and raised in Seattle and considers herself a stereotypical Pacific Northwesterner. She is someone who loves the outdoors and relishes the natural beauty of our region. She has summited Mount Adams, Mount Baker, and Mount Rainier; section hiked most of Washington’s PCT, including six days solo in Glacier Peak Wilderness; successfully taken the Washington Alpine Club’s Basic Climbing and Mountaineering course; and she has recently become certified in Wilderness First Aid, through NOLS.

Cheryl Hill @justpeachy lives in Milwaukie, OR. She has worked as a librarian in the Portland area for nearly two decades. A writer, photographer, and avid hiker, Hill volunteers as an ambassador for Trailkeepers of Oregon, educating hikers about hiking etiquette and Leave No Trace principles.

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Hiking Clinic - NW Association of Blind Athletes
May
3

Hiking Clinic - NW Association of Blind Athletes

Everybody is an Athlete: At NW Association of Blind Athletes, we believe that any individual who is blind or visually impaired is an athlete and deserves the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity.

NWBA programming is available for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Do you have a sport or activity that you want to get involved with or pick up again? We have a variety of sports available throughout the year.

Register as an Athlete: To ensure you are registered as an athlete in the correct area, please email programsteam@nwaba.org.

Volunteer to support: NWABA is an athlete-centered, volunteer driven organization. Submit the registration form Volunteer Registration

Get Involved With NWABA! If you’d like to be involved with NWABA as an athlete, volunteer or just want to learn more, please contact us and we’ll reach out to you shortly.

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ROAD TRIP - BirdhersPDX bird walk at Kelly Point Park
May
2

ROAD TRIP - BirdhersPDX bird walk at Kelly Point Park

birdherspdx

Join us Saturday 5/2 for a birding walk at Kelley Point Park 9:30 am We’re back to summer hours 🌞

  • All ages and experience levels encouraged!

  • Park at the furthest parking lot and meet us nearby. We’ll be the smiling group of dorks with binoculars.

  • Together, we’ll walk slowly about 1 mile on dirt and paved paths. This area is flat but bumpy in spots.

  • Bring your binoculars or borrow a pair of ours.

  • The area is mostly shaded by large cottonwood trees but be prepared for sun and bring drinking water.

  • There are accessible bathrooms and parking is free.

  • This is an affinity space for non-binary, trans, and women people. Allow 2 ish hours.

  • FREE, no registration, donations welcome.

  • Please arrive on time and come as you are 💛

  • Please reach out here or email birdhers@gmail with questions or accomodation needs.

This point is the confluence of two large rivers, the Willamette and Columbia. It is a significant place to Indigenous people.

📸: An Osprey sits on a branch of a snag overlooking the view

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Hardy Hamilton Mountain Loop Hike with Mazamas
May
2

Hardy Hamilton Mountain Loop Hike with Mazamas

Join the Mazamas for this scenic hike in the Columbia River Gorge!

Starting from Beacon Rock State Park's equestrian trailhead, hike up Hardy Ridge to Phlox Point, then take the Bridge Trail and Don's Cutoff to the Saddle, then go up to Hamilton Mountain and return on Equestrian Trail. 

Starting from Equestrian Trailhead, ascend Phlox Point, then descend to a bridge across a creek and re-ascend to the windy saddle on the way to Hamilton Mountain. Summit the mountain and return via the more direct route on the Equestrian Trail. Lunch spot may depend on where we can stand the wind. Total hike will be 12.9 miles with 2,950' of elevation gain. 

Every vehicle parked at the trailhead must display a Washington Discover Pass.

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Camas Field Nature Walk
May
1

Camas Field Nature Walk

Join the Camas Earth Day Society (CEDS) at Round Lake for a leisurely Spring stroll, enjoying the local treasure of blooming Camas fields!

We’ll learn how to recognize various plants by observing flowers, leaves and other key features, and discover why native plants are essential to a healthy ecosystem.

The walk is suitable for ages 8 and older.

Cost is FREE, and registration is limited to the first 25 people that sign up

To register, please click the following link: EVENT SIGN UP

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Cape Disappointment Weekend (+Friday)  Trail Work Party
May
1
to May 3

Cape Disappointment Weekend (+Friday) Trail Work Party

Spend a weekend on the dramatic Pacific Coast preserving a piece of Washington's history! You'll enjoy cozy accommodations as you help prepare for the following week's Volunteer Vacation stair-building project.

Please only register if you are available for ALL THREE days.

There are a plethora of small trails at Cape Disappointment, but the Coastal Forest may be the least well-known. Tucked off of Spur Road 100, the opposite direction from the camping area, the Coastal Forest Loop offers a chance to experience the signature environment of this area in either a half mile or mile and a half loop. Be sure to snag the brochure offered at the park office with interpretive information corresponding to posts along the way.

The North Head Trail winds through a lush coastal forest of sword ferns and towering Sitka spruce, similar to what Lewis and Clark likely encountered during their 1805 visit. From the bluff near where you'll stay, enjoy stunning ocean views and crashing surf below.

What to Expect: Please only register if you can commit to ALL THREE days.

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.

Project Description: Our main objective is to begin a stair-building project that a WTA Volunteer Vacation will complete the following week. You will cut timber to the appropriate size for box steps and spend a LOT of time walking the trail back and forth with mechanized toters to haul all the material to the staircase site. You will likely not actually build many (if any) stairs but will make sure that the materials are all in place.

Because of tight lodging, please only register if you can commit to all three days of work. You may need to share a room with one other volunteer; your crew leader will be working out accommodations.

Camping and Hiking Information

  • Type: Historic residence 

  • Location: Scarborough House

  • Shower: Yes

  • Weather: Be prepared for variable conditions including heat, cold, wind and rain

  • The hike to the staircase site is approximately 0.6 mi with 140 feet of elevation gain. You will do this hike over and over throughout the day to stage materials.

Schedule

  • Friday, Saturday AND Sunday:

  • 8:30 AM: Be ready to sign in and meet the crew, rain or shine

  • 8:35 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site

  • Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail

  • Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work

  • 3:30 PM: Sign out after enjoying refreshments at the trailhead

  • For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving the work party early is not allowed

  • Lodging is available Thursday evening as well if you need to arrive early. You may need to share a room with another volunteer; your crew leader will be working out accommodations.

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours each day on uneven terrain

  • 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 Bring - Required:

  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes

  • Work gloves

  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)

  • Long pants

Recommended:

  • Sturdy work or hiking boots

  • Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

Overnight gear:

  • Whatever you need for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners

  • Personal items such as medication, hand sanitizer and toiletries

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. For safety reasons, shorts and sneakers are not allowed while working.​Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

From the Hiking Guide

See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.

Join Waitlist

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Falls Creek Falls hike with Mazamas
May
1

Falls Creek Falls hike with Mazamas

Join the Mazamas for this “A” level (easy) hike!

Falls Creek Falls is a beautiful 200 foot, three-tiered waterfall in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Our hike will begin at the Falls Creek Falls Trailhead . We’ll follow the upper trail to a viewpoint overlooking the valley and then descend to the base of the falls. We’ll return by way of the lower trail which traces the creek through old-growth forest.

6 miles / 1100 feet elevation gain / 120 drive miles

Registration required HERE

[Photo source WTA]

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First of the Month Bird Walk
May
1

First of the Month Bird Walk

vancouver.audubon

Spring birding with the Vancouver Audubon Society!

Check the VAS web page for event locations and details for this trip.

Bird Walks are meant to be a casual, local morning of birding. They are a great time to enjoy birds with others, find new areas to visit, and/or work on bird identification by sight and sound or to practice your eBird app with help when needed. These walks are usually easy to join or depart at any time during the morning, no commitment to participate in the entire walk if you have limited time.

Registration is strongly encouraged to make sure you can stay in the loop on updates such as those caused by unpredictable weather this time of year. In order to sign up visit Vancouveraudubon.org/bird-walks-field-trips or tap the link in our bio and navigate to "Bird Walks and Field Trips."

Register: Cindy at vas@vancouveraudubon.org
The Vancouver Audubon Society team can't wait to see you there!

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Mt. St. Helens, Swift Creek Worm Flows Climb with Mazamas
May
1

Mt. St. Helens, Swift Creek Worm Flows Climb with Mazamas

Starting with May 1 climbs, Climb Registration Fee includes Mt. St. Helens Permit Fee ($22/person).

This route is open year round from the Marble Mountain Snow Park, so it's usually used for early season ascents. It's about 1,000 more vertical feet than Monitor ridge. Snow can be soft early season due to the low starting elevation, so bring skis or snowshoes in case. St. Helens is one of the lower and technically easier glaciated peaks in the Pacific NW, but still a strenuous climb as the starting elevation is relatively low. The peak is often underestimated; exposure and route finding challenges in low visibility can make this peak a serious as any in the Northwest. Watch out for the cornices on the summit crater!

This is a classic NW ski climb, with long open runs, minimal avy danger, and no crevasses. This can be a nice overnight trip as well - ski in, make camp, and hike up for some tele turns.

Permits and Stuff: St Helens is one of the most heavily regulated peaks in the US. See the Gifford Pinchot National Forest web site for current permit regulations, SnoPark permit required between Nov 15 and April 30.

Activity Notes

Let's Climb! This is the winter route of Mt. St. Helens. It's a great first snow climb. Conditions are ever changing and may require and ice axe and crampons. 

Registration required HERE


The Mazamas are a Portland-based community who hike, climb, host classes, and more. Members have been inspiring others to love and protect the mountains for more than 130 years through adventure, learning, leadership development, and stewardship.

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Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club
Apr
27

Camas Library - Audiobook Walking Club

Audiobook listeners need not walk alone!

Bring your audiobook of choice and meet the Camas Library each month at a new outdoor location for a community walk. We’ll walk for 60 minutes and wrap up with an optional 30 minutes of social time to chat with other book lovers and audio fans.

Walkers of all paces and experience levels are welcome — whether you’re a power walker, stroller pusher, or leisurely listener, there’s space for you here.

Walks are weather-dependent, so please check our social media channels or this event page for updates or cancellations.

Accommodations: The library strives to ensure our events are accessible to everyone. If you require special accommodations to join us, please call 360.834.4692 or email library@cityofcamas.us at least two weeks before the event.

Location Details:

Washougal River Greenway Trail, NE Yale Street and 2nd Avenue, Camas, WA 98607

See map: Google Maps

Contact Info

Name: Stacy Yakouba

Email: library@cityofcamas.us

Phone Number: (360) 834-4692

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ROAD TRIP - Columbia Hills Natural Area Preserve Hike
Apr
26

ROAD TRIP - Columbia Hills Natural Area Preserve Hike

Join the Washington Native Plant Society Suksdorfia Chapter (SW WA) for a road trip to view A profusion of native plants awaits at the top of Stacker Butte.  

Walk a primitive road climbing to the top of the butte ridge-crest with stunning views of Mt. Adams to the north, Mt. Hood to the south, and the eastern Columbia River Gorge. Douglas’ buckwheat and many desert parsleys, Bitterroot, Sticky Penstemon, Frasera, and more.

  • Moderate walking route 4.8 miles with 1200’ of elevation gain.  

  • Meet at The Dalles Mountain Ranch Trailhead at Columbia Hills State Park at 9 a.m.  

  • A Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking.  

  • Hike is limited to 12 people.

  • To sign up for the hike or for more information contact Kim Gilmer at gilmerno.1@gmail.com.

  • Please join us in visiting French’s farms in Lyle after the hike to check out their wonderful selection of native plants and homemade ice cream!

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Stewardship Saturday at Columbia Springs
Apr
25

Stewardship Saturday at Columbia Springs

  • Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)  (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

This event is perfect for volunteers who want to spend a couple of hours working outside in Columbia Springs' beautiful natural area.

Projects typically include removing invasive species, trail maintenance, and improving the accessibility and safety of the site. Columbia Springs will provide tools, gloves, and guidance.

Volunteers are asked to bring a water bottle, gloves (if you have them), wear closed-toe shoes, and dress in outdoor/work-appropriate clothing. 

Register in advance: https://www.columbiasprings.org/volunteer/ 

Spots are limited! 

Volunteer Requirements: Children under age 14 are welcome to volunteer with their parent or guardian. Teens under age 18 can volunteer independently with their guardian’s signed permission.  

Questions? Email jamie@columbiasprings.org 

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Put on your adventure hat and head outdoors