hiking

Traditional Technologies Day at the Cathlapotle Plankhouse!

August 11, 2013:  12pm- 4pm.
Carty Unit of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge,
28908 NW Main Ave, Ridgefield, WA 98642
www.ridgefieldfriends.org/plankhouse

Experience traditional tools and technologies of our human ancestors have used across the globe, and enjoy the many hiking and wildlife watching opportunities of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge!

Demonstrators will be at the Plankhouse showing people traditional skills found across the world such as archery, atlatl throwing, flintknapping, friction fire, and animal tracking. Tribal members from Chinook Indian Nation and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde will also be in the house showcasing traditional art and language of Chinookan peoples. Participation in many of these demonstrations is encouraged for everyone, and there will also be special activities for children all day!

The Cathlapotle Plankhouse is a modern Chinookan Plankhouse built to interpret the Chinookan village of Cathlapotle that once existed on what is today Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge property.  At the time Lewis and Clark visited Cathlapotle, it had 14 large plankhouses and a population of over 900 people.  The modern Cathlapotle Plankhouse is used to provide educational programs to youth and the general public through our Lifeways, Landscapes, and Wildlife Interpretive Program.  To learn more about the plankhouse visit www.ridgefieldfriends.org or contact Sarah Hill at Sarah_Hill@fws.gov or (360) 887-4106.   

Special Half-Day Event 9am-12pm: The Washington Trails Association (WTA) seeks youth and families (and hikers of all ages) to participate in a work party right in Vancouver's "backyard". Bring your child (and inner child) to connect with nature while building a new section of trail for future generations to enjoy.

WTA provides all tools and instruction plus post work party refreshments. No prior experience with trail work needed, just a willingness to lend a hand. On this project the crew is building a new trail reroute that will replace a section of trail that is often muddy. The new trail will shed water better and provide a much nicer hiking experience.

Whipple Creek Park is a 300-acre green oasis in the midst of farmlands to the west of the Clark County Fairgrounds. This hike loops through colossal Douglas fir trees and waist-high sword ferns to provide a primordial experience where you are dwarfed by nature. There is a small meadow for a picnic and the remnants of a grist mill to explore. This hike is a great way to escape urban life and be immersed in a peaceful forest environment.

Let's Go is a series of fun, organized, ranger-let activities at major Oregon State Parks this summer.

Oregon State Parks boasts miles of hiking trails.  Hiking is an easy sport to begin and is the perfect way for you and your family to go outside and get some exercise together. What better way to experience some of Oregon's most beautiful scenery than to join us on a Let's Go Hiking at Night trip!  Be sure to wear hiking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring a water bottle, and any other necessary personal items.  Ages 8 years old and above welcome (children 8-14 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian).

For more information, check out: www.oregonstateparks.org and find Let's Go under "Things To Do".

Do you have an appreciation for birds and want some experience on how best to see them? Or are you an experienced birder wanting to help with bird surveys? Then Let's Go Birding is for you!  On our introductory walk, we'll help you understand binoculars - from choosing sizes and magnifications to proper use. We'll also give you some birding tips and techniques to help you become better acquainted with our feathered friends. Birding is also a great opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy nature!  Binoculars and guide books are provided. Please bring your own water and sunscreen, dress appropriately for the weather, and wear good hiking shoes. Ages 8 years old and above welcome; children 8-14 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

Oregon State Parks boasts miles of hiking trails. Hiking is an easy sport to begin and is the perfect way for you and your family to go outside and get some exercise together. What better way to experience some of Oregon's most beautiful scenery! Experience the accomplishment and exhilaration that can only come from a day spent on a great trail. You'll learn tips and tricks for when and where to go, what to expect and how to make the most of your hiking adventure.  Be sure to wear hiking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and any other necessary personal items.  Ages 8 years old and above welcome (children 8-14 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian).