Introduction to the Natural World Course

Note: Field trips are still being set up. They typically are held the weekend following a lecture. (Mount Rainier trip will likely occur the 1st weekend in August)

An 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. Field trips will be organized with faster and slower paced groups to accommodate all fitness levels.

An Introduction to the Natural World course is designed for beginning naturalists. More experienced students are always welcome and invited to contribute as they learn even more. Successful completion of the course opens the door to membership in the Naturalist Study Group to continue the adventure through workshops, field trips and  lectures.

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

Field trips typically occur the weekends following the lectures.  Snowpack conditions may shift the dates of the Teanaway and Mount Rainier field trips.

Participation in all activities is not required but strongly encouraged.

To graduate, submit a list of 100 identified species. We will celebrate your success and get to know other naturalists at a potluck on September 20, 2016. The goal is to have fun and to learn.