Introduction to the Natural World Course

The Introduction to the Natural World course is designed for hikers, climbers, photographers, scramblers, and conservationists who want to learn more about the mountains they enjoy.

Using the "Field Guide to the Cascades and Olympics" by Stephen Whitney and Rob Sandelin as a resource, you will learn the basics of how to identify flowers, shrubs, trees, birds, mammals, butterflies and other forms of life.

Instructors are volunteers, eager to share their knowledge and enthusiasm of nature. 

The course includes four presentations at the Mountaineers Program Center at Magnuson Park Seattle, one stewardship session at the Mountaineers Native Plant Garden, and four field trips (2 local and 2 in the mountains). 

Field trips generally occur on the two weekends following the lecture.  Some mid-week and evening sessions may be offered for the first two field trips. Field trips will be organized with faster and slower paced groups to accommodate all fitness levels. You will need to register for the stewardship activity, and register for one session for each of the 4 field trips.

Participation in all activities is not required, though we believe you will find each field trip to be uniquely different and well worth attending.

To graduate, submit a list of 100 identified species. We will celebrate your success and get to know other naturalists at a potluck in September. The goal is to have fun and to learn.

For more information about the Seattle Naturalists, visit our Welcome page.