Free to Glacier Institute Members

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Duration

Two Hours

Dates:

• June 17
• July 1
• July 15
• August 12
• September 9
• September 16

About

Join us at our Field Camp location inside Glacier National Park as we spend the evening with Program Director for the Glacier Institute, Zowie Caouette. Zowie has over seven years of outdoor education experience and is in her fifth season working in Glacier National Park.

Nature journaling is a way to slow down. Through observing the natural world with all your senses, taking the time to notice the small details, you may see things you would have just walked by while on another adventure in the park. This practice will help you be present, improve your observational skills and reawaken your sense of wonder and awe. An innate sense of curiosity will be reawakened as we take time to slow down, sketch, write and journal about the natural world around us. This course is suited for people of all skill levels - beginners or experienced artists alike.

Itinerary

Subject to change due to trail closures and weather

We will meet you at Glacier Institute Field Camp. Zowie, our instructor, will begin the workshop with a brief explanation of nature journaling and its benefits. The rest of our time will be spent on the class focus, which depends on the current environmental conditions present. At the end of each course, we will take some time to share as we would like. Each session will have a specific focus area. You do not need to attend every session to enjoy the benefits of the course, but each course will be unique and build upon each other over time. The session topics are as follows:

• Geology/Glaciology
• Plants
• Animals
• Seasons and weather
• Conservation
• Ecosystem connections
• Phenology

A journal and micron pen is recommended, but you can succeed in this course with a notepad and pencil. If you would like to use color and have access to art materials (markers, colored pencils, transportable paints), please bring them along.

Physical Requirements

Easy. We will hike no more than 1 - 2 miles total with under 100 feet of elevation gain.

Park Entrance Fees

Participants are responsible for purchasing their park entry passes prior to the hike. These can be purchased online. A Vehicle Reservation is NOT required. Participation in your hike with the Glacier Institute acts as your Vehicle Reservation. These details will be included in your confirmation email.

Recommended Reading

• The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative by Florence Williams
• The Art of Natural History: A Guide to the Nature Journal by Kathleen E. M. McNerney

What to Bring

• Comfortable hiking shoes, at least 1-2 liter water bottle, backpack, rain gear, hat, and sunscreen
• Weather can be varied so please be prepared with appropriate clothing, especially warm layers for potential snow and high winds
• An unlined journal or field sized sketchbook
• A journal and micron pen is recommended, but you can succeed in this course with just a notepad and pencil. If you would like to use color and have access to more art materials, please bring them along.