Hope Mountain Centre, in collaboration with environmental groups, seeks public support to document sightings of grizzly bears in southwest British Columbia. Call the toll-free sightings hotline 1-855-GO-GRIZZ (1-855-464-7499) if you see a grizzly bear in southwest BC, or email us. Grizzly Bear Conservation 1/1 Hope Mountain Centre, in collaboration with environmental groups, seeks public support to document sightings of grizzly bears in southwest British Columbia. Call the toll-free sightings hotline 1-855-GO-GRIZZ (1-855-464-7499 ) if you see a grizzly bear in southwest BC, or email us. Grizzly Bear Sighting? Email Us! In your message, please provide as much detail as possible. Include the date and time of your sighting(s), the location, number of bears or signs of bears you saw, if they were adult, juvenile or cubs and/or approximate size, what they bear was doing, and what made you think it was a grizzly bear or sign of grizzly bear activity. Please attach any photos or videos you have of the sighting. Upload File Upload supported file (Max 15MB) Submit Thanks for submitting! W hat We're Doing Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning collaborates with other groups working on grizzly bear conservation in southwestern BC like the Wildlife Branch of BC Ministry of Forests, the Joint Nations Grizzly Bear Initiative and Okanagan Nation Alliance - Grizzly Bear Recovery to share information. We encourage reporting of sightings from the general public by distributing informational posters at retail outlets, trailheads, public buildings and other facilities. Sighting reports are screened by trained personnel and forwarded on to partner organizations like BC government biologists who may follow up with field verification and utilize information in their work. Why? Grizzly bears are extremely rare in most of southwest BC, particularly in the Cascades and the eastern slopes of the Coast Range. The public is being asked to report sightings because every individual grizzly is important to these populations. The BC government lists grizzly bears in Cascades, Garibaldi/Pitt River, Stein/Nahatlatch Rivers and Squamish/Lillooet populations as “threatened.” Estimates indicate that there are fewer than 40 grizzly bears on the eastern slopes of the BC Coast Range and the Cascades in the area stretching from Lillooet to I-90 in Washington State, USA. Grizzly bears are slow to reproduce and slow to recover from low numbers. BC biologists and their counterparts from the US have worked together for years on grizzly bear science and recovery. We hope to invest citizens in a similar vein through citizen science monitoring. Every verified sighting contributes to our knowledge about SW BC’s grizzly bears which in turn helps us understand how vulnerable they are to local extinction. Hikers, climbers, hunters, fishers, photographers, loggers and ranchers – anyone who is recreating or working in the mountains can potentially contribute. The more solid information people have about grizzly bear abundance and distribution, the better their ability to monitor bear recovery. Call the toll-free sightings hotline (1-855-GO-GRIZZ or 1-855-464-7499) if you see a grizzly bear or signs of a grizzly in southwest BC. 

 For more information please visit: coasttocascades.org/sightings https://jointnationsgrizzlybear.com https://syilx.org/projects/ki%C9%82lawna%C9%82-grizzly-bear-recovery/

Take on the Hope Trails Challenge and WIN! Hope Trails Challenge Take on the Hope Trails Challenge and WIN! From August 1 until October 30, 2026 challenge yourself to explore trails in Hope for a chance to win great prizes. By completing at least one of the trails and posting and tagging on social media (or showing a photo at the visitor centre as proof of completion), participants will be entered to win the grand prize of a $250 gift card to Hope Outdoors and one entry into any Hope Mountain Centre public program in 2026/27. For every trail completed, participants will receive one entry into the grand prize draw. The first 50 people who go into the Hope visitor centre and show proof of their eligible entry will also receive a Hope Trails Challenge buff/neck gaiter (while supplies last!). HOW TO PARTICIPATE: STEP ONE - Pick Up Your Map Get a copy of the FREE Trails of Hope map at the Hope Cascades & Canyons Visitor Centre, located at 919 Water Ave. in Hope, BC. Open 10 am - 4 pm Mon-Sun. STEP TWO- Hike One or More Trails Participants must complete at least one of the following trails between August 1, 2026 and October 30th, 2026. The more trails you hike, the more chances of winning! BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE TRAILS Silverhope Creek Trail Elevation gain: 7 m | Round trip: 1.3 km Time: 30 minutes For more information please visit hopemountain.org/silverhope-creek-trail Othello Tunnels Elevation gain: 20 m | Round trip: 2 km Time: 1 hour For more information please visit hopemountain.org/othello-tunnels Rhododendron Flats Elevation gain: 11 m | Round trip: 0.5 km Time: < 1 hour For more information please visit hopemountain.org/rhododendron-flats Alexandra Bridge Elevation gain: 73 m | Round trip: 1.8 km Time: 1-2 hours For more information please visit hopemountain.org/alexandra-bridge Ottomite Mountain Elevation gain: 330 m | Round trip: 8.5 km Time: 4-6 hours For more information please visit hopemountain.org/ottomite-mountain INTERMEDIATE TO ADVANCED TRAILS Serpent’s Back Elevation gain: 435 m | Round trip: 5.5 km | Time: 3-4 hours For more information please visit hopemountain.org/serpents-back-trail Spirit Caves Elevation gain: 600 m | Round trip: 7 km | Time: 4-5 hours For more information please visit hopemountain.org/spirit-caves Whatcom Trail Loop Elevation gain: 1,132 m | Round trip: 22.5 km | Time: 8-9 hours For more information please visit alltrails.com/trail/canada/british-columbia/dewdney-and-whatcom-trail-loop Skyline II Trail – One-Way Thru Hike between Skagit Valley Provincial Park and Manning Park Elevation gain: 926 m | One-way: 25.7 km | Time: 10-12 hours For more information please visit alltrails.com/trail/canada/british-columbia/skyline-ii-trail-2 HBC Heritage Trail * *The entire HBC Trail does not need to be hiked. Any portion of this trail hikes is eligible for this challenge. Suggested route is the picturesque section of Jacobsen Lake to Conglomerate Flats and Palmer’s Pond. Stats for entire trail: Elevation gain: 3,922 m | One way: 75 km | Time: 3-7 days For more information please visit hopemountain.org/hbc-1849-heritage-trail STEP THREE - Enter Your Hike to Win Enter your hike for an entry into the grand prize draw in one (or more!) of three ways. Each hike = one entry. 1. Tag us on social media Post a photo to social media of you on one of the designated trails tagging Tourism HCC (@tourismhcc) and Hope Mountain Centre (@hopemountain), and using the hashtag #HopeTrails2026. See terms and conditions for eligibility. 2. Show the visitor centre For those that don’t use social media, you can simply show us your photo at the visitor centre and fill in a paper grand prize draw entry sheet. Pop in to receive your participation prize of a buff too! 3. Upload the photo through this link Want to enter your photo to be considered for next season’s buff prize design? Upload it here: https://app.snapsea.io/p/link/2026-hope-trails-challenge-uploads ! The best photo will be used as the design on our next Trails Challenge buff. (optional) STEP FOUR - Snag a participation prize at the Visitor Centre Drop in at the Hope Cascades & Canyons Visitor Centre, located at 919 Water Ave., Hope, BC. Open 10 am - 4 pm Mon-Sun. Open 9 am - 5 pm Mon-Sun in August. Show one of the staff your entry to instantly claim a finisher’s prize of a Hope Trails Challenge-branded buff/neck gaiter. To receive a buff, participants must come in to the visitor centre to pick it up. All challenge entries done via paper, social media or the link will still be entered to win the grand prize. PRIZES Enter to WIN the grand prize! By completing at least one of the trails and posting and tagging on social media (or showing a photo at the visitor centre or entering via the link as proof of completion), participants will be eligible to enter to win the grand prize: a $250 gift card to Hope Outdoors and one entry into any Hope Mountain Centre public program in 2026/27. For every trail completed and entered, participants will receive one entry into the grand prize draw. Physical entries are deposited in an entry barrel at the Hope, Cascades & Canyons Visitor Centre. Those who enter online will be automatically entered. Visitor Centre prize is a Hope Trails Challenge buff. BE SAFE AND RESPONSIBLE Before heading out into nature, always make sure to follow BC AdventureSmart's THREE Ts (Trip Plan, Train, and Take Essentials) , and Leave No Trace . Terms & Conditions 2026 Hope Trails Challenge – Terms and Conditions Overview The 2026 Hope Trails Challenge (the “Challenge”) is an outdoor activity designed to encourage hikers to explore and complete various trails around Hope, BC. Participants who complete the Challenge will be eligible to receive a prize provided they adhere to the following terms and conditions. Get your Trails of Hope Map at the Hope Cascades & Canyons Visitor Centre, located at 919 Water Ave., Hope, BC. Open 10 am - 4 pm Mon-Sun. Open 9 am - 5 pm Mon-Sun through August. The Hope Trails Challenge ends on October 30th, 2026. Winners will be announced by November 12th, 2026. If we are unable to contact a winner, a new one will be selected. Winner will have 90 days to claim their prizes at the Hope Cascades & Canyons Visitor Centre. The winner’s first name will be published on our social media pages. Challenge Rules Eligibility: To participate, hikers must complete at least one or some of the designated trails in the challenge and either post on social media tagging Tourism HCC and Hope Mountain Centre, visit the Visitor Centre showing staff a photo of themselves on the trail to claim their prize, or uploading their photo to https://app.snapsea.io/p/link/2026-hope-trails-challenge-uploads . Social Media Requirement: Participants who enter by posting a photo or video or reel of themselves on a Facebook, Instagram or YouTube account (temporary stories are excluded) showing they completed at least one of the trails, must also tag Tourism HCC (@tourismhcc) and Hope Mountain Centre (@hopemountain) on the post and include the hashtag #HopeTrails2026. Landing Page: Information regarding the Challenge will be available on the Hope Mountain Centre and Hope Cascades & Canyons websites. Participants should check these pages for updates and details on trail locations. Trails Participants must complete at least one of the following trails: BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE TRAILS Silverhope Creek Trail Elevation gain: 7 m | Round trip: 1.3 km Time: 30 minutes Othello Tunnels Elevation gain: 20 m | Round trip: 2 km Time: 1 hour Rhododendron Flats Elevation gain: 11 m | Round trip: 0.5 km Time: < 1 hour Alexandra Bridge Elevation gain: 73 m | Round trip: 1.8 km Time: 1-2 hours Ottomite Mountain Elevation gain: 330 m | Round trip: 8.5 km Time: 4-6 hours INTERMEDIATE TO ADVANCED TRAILS Serpent’s Back Elevation gain: 435 m | Round trip: 5.5 km | Time: 3-4 hours Spirit Caves Elevation gain: 600 m | Round trip: 7 km | Time: 4-5 hours Whatcom Trail Loop Elevation gain: 1,132 m | Round trip: 22.5 km | Time: 8-9 hours Skyline II Trail – One-Way Thru Hike between Skagit Valley Provincial Park and Manning Park Elevation gain: 926 m | One-way: 25.7 km | Time: 10-12 hours HBC Heritage Trail* *The entire HBC Trail does not need to be hiked. Any portion of this trail hikes is eligible for this challenge. Suggested route is the picturesque section of Jacobsen Lake to Conglomerate Flats and Palmer’s Pond. Stats for entire trail: Elevation gain: 3,922 m | One way: 75 km | Time: 3-7 days Prizes Participants who complete the Challenge will be eligible to receive a prize at the Hope Cascades & Canyons Visitor Centre, located at 919 Water Ave., Hope, BC. Open 10 am - 4 pm Mon-Sun. Open 9 am - 5 pm Mon-Sun through August. Grand Prize Draw: By completing one or more trails and posting, submitting via link or showing a photo at visitor centre as proof of completion, participants will also be eligible to enter to win the grand prize of a $250 gift card to Hope Outdoors and one entry into any Hope Mountain Centre public program in 2026/27. For every trail completed and entered, participants will receive one entry into the grand prize draw. All participants grant Hope Cascades & Canyons and Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning permission to use their photos, videos, and likeness for promotional purposes on social media accounts and website. Liability and Safety By participating in the Challenge, participants acknowledge that hiking can involve risks and agree to take full responsibility for their personal safety and well-being while completing the trails. The organizers, including Hope Cascades & Canyons and Hope Mountain Centre, are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damages that may occur during participation in the Challenge. Final Notes The Challenge is subject to change or cancellation at any time. The organizers reserve the right to modify the terms and conditions as necessary. For any questions or clarifications, please contact marketing@hopebc.ca .

Othello Tunnels Othello Tunnels CURRENT STATUS - last updated June 2026 While the main out-and-back walk through Tunnels 1 to 5 is fully open, the connected, longer "Hope-Nicola Valley Trail" loop and access from the FVRD KVR Trail remains closed due to severe storm and wind damage. Stay on the designated Kettle Valley Rail bed trail and enjoy the turnaround at the fifth tunnel. Trail Stats Trailhead Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Nty6oz62Gb8dNc9K9 Round Trip Trail Distance in KM: 2km Elevation Gain in M: 20 Highest Point in M: 200 Dogs Allowed: Yes (on leash) 4 X 4 Needed: No Map Trail Access The main trailhead and large paved parking lot are located in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park at the end of Tunnels Road in Hope, BC, Canada. Here is the google map for the parking lot: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xsXPx8kU3q2kUVst6 Othello Tunnels can also be accessed from the "back end" in the town of Hope at the end of Kettle Valley Road via FVRD's KVR trail. That trailhead is located here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/82kkyBtgu49yaNDc8 The trail is located in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park (one of BC Parks) in the town of Hope. There are toilets and garbage cans in the parking lot but none along this trail. When hiking this and every trail please make sure to carry The Ten Essentials and practice Leave No Trace principles. Public Transportation Options Tourism Hope, Cascades and Canyons is offering a shuttle bus via ParkBus from Vancouver to Hope. Learn more and book now at tourismhcc.ca/vancouver-to-othello-tunnels/ Trail Description Othello Tunnels trail is a spectacular blend of dramatic natural geography and early 20th-century engineering. The route follows a flat, decommissioned section of the historic Kettle Valley Railway. It guides you over elevated bridges and straight through a series of five massive tunnels blasted directly out of solid granite cliffs, hundreds of feet above the roaring, turquoise Coquihalla River. Note the trail is open seasonally from May to October (closed in winter due to falling rock and ice hazards). Dogs on-leash are permitted on the trail, but please be responsible to ensure they are picked up after and do not wander off the trail to disturb wildlife or the surrounding habitat. There is cell phone reception on this trail but it's always best to download any electronic maps you plan on using beforehand such as Gaia GPS or AllTrails . The path is wide, covered in packed gravel, and very easy to navigate—making it popular for families, casual walkers, and on-leash dogs. As you leave the main parking lot, you quickly plunge into the canyon where the air turns cool and crisp. You will pass through the hand-carved, dark interiors of the "Othello Quintette" tunnels, interspersed with open-air trestle bridges. Standing on the bridges, you get a front-row view of the sheer vertical cliffs and the turbulent, churning water below. Quick Tips for Your Visit Bring a light: A couple of the longer tunnels are pitch black in the middle, and the gravel floor can be uneven from overhead water drips. A headlamp, flashlight, or your smartphone light is essential to avoid tripping. Bikes welcome, with a catch: You can ride the trail, but BC Parks requires cyclists to dismount and walk their bikes while passing through the tunnels themselves. Arrive early: Because it is incredibly accessible and scenic, the free parking lot fills up quickly on sunny summer weekends. Weekday mornings or early evenings are the best times to beat the crowds. History The history of the Othello Tunnels is essentially a story of human stubbornness winning a fight against impossible geography. It is widely considered one of the greatest engineering feats of the early 20th century. Here is how a treacherous canyon became a railway line. The Motivation: A Railway Rivalry In the late 1800s and early 1900s, rich deposits of silver, copper, and gold were discovered in the Kootenay region of southern British Columbia. The problem? There was no easy way to get those resources to the coast. The Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) had a monopoly on the northern route, but American rail companies began building lines northward across the border to scoop up the Canadian minerals. To protect Canadian economic interests and secure the border, the CPR commissioned a new, southern rail line: the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR). The Challenge: The Coquihalla Gorge The biggest obstacle on the entire route was the Coquihalla Gorge—a sheer, narrow, 300-meter-deep slot cut through solid granite by the roaring Coquihalla River. Most engineers looked at the canyon and declared it completely impossible to build a railway through it. Enter Andrew McCulloch, the brilliant chief engineer of the KVR. McCulloch took on the challenge in 1911. Instead of trying to blast a wide ledge along the cliff face—which would have been wiped out by constant winter avalanches and rockfalls—McCulloch decided on a radical alternative: he would drill straight through the cliffs. The Engineering Feat: 1911–1916 Building the tunnels was an incredibly dangerous, grueling process that took over four years. Suspended Blasting: Because the canyon walls were near-vertical, workers had to be lowered down the cliffs in wicker baskets suspended by ropes hundreds of feet above the raging river. Dangling in mid-air, they hand-drilled holes into the solid granite, packed them with dynamite, lit the fuses, and were frantically hauled back up before the blast. The "Quintette" Alignment: McCulloch designed a series of five tunnels that perfectly align in a straight line. If you stood at the right spot when they were operational, you could look straight through all five tunnels consecutively. The Cost: The project cost an astronomical $300,000 per mile in 1914 money—roughly five times the budget of a standard railway line at the time. The Shakespeare Connection Andrew McCulloch was a deeply cultured man with a passion for classic literature, particularly William Shakespeare. While spending years in the harsh wilderness managing rough rail crews, he passed the time reading. When it came time to name the stations, sidings, and landmarks along the Coquihalla subdivision, McCulloch ignored local geography and used Shakespearean characters. Thus, the tunnels became Othello, and nearby stops on the line were named Lear, Jessica, Portia, Iago, Romeo, and Juliet. Decommissioning and Legacy The Kettle Valley Railway officially opened in 1916. However, nature never truly stopped fighting back. The Coquihalla route was plagued by washouts, heavy winter snowpacks, mudslides, and rockfalls that made maintenance a constant nightmare. On November 23, 1959, a massive washout destroyed a major section of the tracks just below the tunnels. The CPR decided that the line was simply too expensive and dangerous to keep repairing. The tracks through the Coquihalla Canyon were officially abandoned, and the rails were pulled up in 1961. In 1986, the provincial government recognized the historical and engineering significance of the site, transforming the abandoned rail bed into Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park so visitors could walk through McCulloch's tunnels on foot. Other Trails Nearby Trail Reports Feel free to leave a comment below with trail reports so other users can learn about current conditions. comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment.

Manning Park Bird Blitz Photo: Hasitha Samarajeewa When: Friday-Sunday, June 14-16, 2024 Where: Lone Duck 2, Manning Park Cost: $75 - Full Weekend Birder $60 - 1 Night Camping Birder (Friday or Saturday) $45 - Day Birder + BBQ $35 - Day Birder (no BBQ) FREE - Young Birder (Children and youth under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian) Register For more information or questions, please contact Tunde at tmurphy@hopemountain.org or 604-869-1274 Returning for its 41th year, don’t miss this annual important citizen science initiative! With a diverse mix of coastal, mountain, and interior climates, E.C. Manning Provincial Park supports a massive variety of birds - over 200 species! June is a great time to visit, when forests are alive with a riot of birds exuberantly advertising for mates and defending territory. This, combined with the park’s extensive network of scenic trails, makes Manning a paradise for birders - experts and novices alike! About the Manning Park Bird Blitz Founded by Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission’s (SEEC) Canadian Commissioner Gail Ross in 1983, making it British Columbia’s longest-running bird count! The original intentions were to create an event that would not only promote the activity of birding, but also encourage expert birders to help create continuity by sharing their knowledge and passion with those less experienced. Conducting an annual bird-count would create an official record of presence and absence of bird species in Manning Park during active breeding season (June). The Bird Blitz has provided a multi-year database of Manning Park birds that is shared with park staff, biologists, and the general public. It is a beloved event the Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning is proud to carry on. A fun social event, it is also a nice time for old acquaintances to reconnect, and new birders to join a group of passionate comrades! We are so grateful for Ross creating this lasting tradition that has improved our understanding of Manning Park's ecological richness while also building a strong community of birders who celebrate the beauty and importance of the avian world. Itinerary: Friday, June 14, 2024 02:00pm- Birders may arrive and set up camp at Lone Duck 2. Some birders may choose to stay at nearby fixed roof accommodations (at their own cost). 06:00pm – Meet at the registration/resources tent at Lone Duck 2 Campground , E.C. Manning Provincial Park and check-in, sign liability waivers . You can avoid the crunch and check in early, anytime between 2:00 – 6:00pm. There is plenty of room for RV’s, campers, trailers and tents. 07:00pm – Evening presentation by Hasitha Samarajeewa Participants must arrange their own transportation to Manning Provincial Park and to areas chosen for birding within the park. Saturday, June 15, 2024 Early Morning – Friday campers start at various times through the early morning (as arranged Friday evening), birding groups will begin hiking different trails in Manning Park to record species and numbers of birds (by sight or call). 17 birding areas have been identified in the park and birders are welcome to visit as many of these areas as they wish 08:00 - 8:40am – New arrivals check in at registration table at Lone Duck 2 campground and join their expert level group. 09:00am – “Introduction to Birding” for beginner birders –Kelly Pearce and Scott Denkers will lead a morning outing for beginners “Intermediate Birding” for birders with a little more experience. Our guest birder Bill Kinkaid will lead a morning outing with more advanced birders 05:00pm – Birders gather at Lone Duck 2 campground for an evening barbecue (we will provide buns/dinner rolls, salads, chips, juice, tea, hot chocolate, coffee and condiments–bring your own choice of protein!) 06:30pm – After dinner, birders will meet around the campfire for a quick run-through of the day’s bird and other wildlife sightings, sharing their thrilling moments and exciting debacles! 07:30pm – Evening presentation by John Gordon Sunday, June 16, 2024 More birding will occur in those areas not covered on Saturday, with people leaving Sunday afternoon. If you are birding on the way out of the park, please send us your completed checklist as soon as possible. Be aware that times are approximate! Start and end times may vary slightly. Price includes: Full Weekend Birder – $75 Fee covers Friday & Saturday camping fees, Saturday barbecue (bring your own protein), guest speakers' Friday and Saturday evening presentation, birding kit and field data information, educational materials, and company of friendly, like-minded birders! 1 Night Camping Birder /Fri day/ – $60 Fee covers Friday night camping fees, guest speakers' Friday evening presentation, Saturday birding, Saturday barbecue (bring your own protein), birding kit and field data information, educational materials, and company of friendly, like-minded birders 1 Night Camping Birder /Saturday/– $60 Fee covers Saturday night camping fees, Saturday birding, Saturday barbecue (bring your own protein), guest speakers' Saturday evening presentation, birding kit and field data information, educational materials, and company of friendly, like-minded birders! Day Birder + BBQ – $45 Fee covers Saturday birding with birding kit and field data information, use of educational displays and materials, and company of friendly, like-minded birders! Fee also includes the BBQ on Saturday evening (bring your own protein) and Saturday evening presentation . No camping included! Day Birder (no BBQ) – $35 Fee covers Saturday OR Sunday birding with birding kit and field data information, use of educational materials, and company of friendly, like-minded birders! No camping or BBQ included! Young Birder – $0 FREE for children and youth aged 18 and under, must be accompanied by an adult participating in event. Fee applies to all birders; those camping and those staying at other fixed roof accommodation. For those attending the barbecue, please bring your own protein . We will provide a variety of salads, buns, coffee/tea, fruit juice and various condiments. Bringing your own cutlery and plates to help with our cleanup! Physical demand: Participants should be in reasonably good physical condition, but there will be plenty of opportunities to rest and enjoy the birds and surroundings–you’ll be on your own schedule! It’s also your choice of birding trails, from flat and easy to steep and strenuous. Please be prepared for all weather conditions. June conditions can be cold or hot, or anything in between! Temperatures at camp typically range from -3C to +20C. Snow may be encountered at higher elevations. What to bring: Whenever you are hiking, you should always carry The Essentials Recommended items: Backpack to carry all your belongings Sturdy boots and gaiters Water (at least 1 litre) High-energy food Warm clothes and rain gear Binoculars/spotting scope, camera Bird ID guidebooks and/or apps downloaded for offline use on phone Headlamp First aid kit Firestarter Emergency shelter/blanket Map and compass (and/or GPS navigation + spare batteries/powerbank and cord) Multitool Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, Chapstick Amenities: There are no electrical or sewer hookups at the campground. Lone Duck 2 campground has a shelter with some picnic tables, communal fire pit, potable water and outhouses. Picnic tables are limited, so campers are encouraged to bring folding tables and chairs of their own. Manning Park Lodge is close by (6mins drive) and has a restaurant, café, and gift shop. Be prepared to camp in shoulder season conditions (potential for cold and wet) and provide your own food. An exception is the Saturday night barbecue, when you can just arrive with protein for the grill. Alternatively, Manning Park Resort has a few restaurant options: https://www.manningpark.com/food-and-dining/ . Come prepared to hike in any weather condition, with temperatures ranging between -3C and +20C. Snow will likely be found at higher elevations. Gaiters are helpful to keep mud and snow out of your boots. Accommodation: Event Camping Group Camping will be available at Lone Duck 2 campground with plenty of room for our group. Come prepared for tenting or RV camping. There are no electrical or sewage hookups. Facilities include outhouses, potable water and a communal campfire pit. Bring your own folding table and chairs if possible as picnic tables and seating are limited. Skyview RV Campground If you require electrical or sewer hookup for camping, there is also Skyview Campground nearby. Accommodations other than the Lone Duck 2 are at your own cost and should be booked well in advance as space is limited and fills up quickly. Book your space at Skyview Campground by visiting https://www.manningpark.com/skyview/ Manning Park Lodge Note: If you are staying at the resort, you should book soon. Rooms go quickly. To book your room, call Manning Park Lodge at 1-800-330-3321 (toll-free) Accommodation may also be booked online by clicking HERE. Lodging outside of Manning Provincial Park is also available within a 30-to-45-minute drive. Program Partners: Sponsorship of the Bird Blitz With the support of BC Nature, the Manning Park Bird Blitz is organized and delivered by Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning. Both non-profit organizations are devoted to nature appreciation and stewardship, and together, they bring long-term stability and increased promotion to this great Manning Park citizen science tradition. Funding Support We are grateful for the financial support provided by the Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission and the Province of British Columbia. Meet Your Guides Hasitha started photography 15 year ago as an amateur backyard bird photographer. He is now an avid enthusiast of bird and wildlife photography based in Vancouver. He takes every opportunity to get out into nature, enjoy her splendor and capture the special moments. To Hasitha conservation and photography ethics play a key role in interactions with nature. Meeting the balance of getting close to nature and not disturbing the animals is very important for all natural enthusiast. Hasitha Samarajeewa Guest Speaker After an eventful thirty year career as a professional photographer John retired in 2011 to follow his passion for birds and birding. He hasn’t looked back! It’s been a life long learning experience that continues today. "Birding brings me great joy and peace of mind. I have been lucky enough to bird in many countries, some exotic but crossing Canada was one of the most memorable. I hope you enjoy the presentation." Dedicated to Al Grass John Gordon Guest Speaker Kelly first became involved with the Manning Park Bird Blitz when he was hired as a park naturalist in 1993. He took over management of the event in 2000, and by 2009, Kelly brought the Bird Blitz under the wing of Hope Mountain Centre and BC Nature. For 31 years, Kelly has taken pride in seeing the birding tradition at Manning Park change and grow. Kelly Pearce Le ader Scott Denkers Le ader Scott's interest in birds and natural history began early in life. His post-secondary education led to degrees in biology and physical geography. Following university, he worked at various natural resource organizations over a couple of decades in the U.S. In 2006, Scott moved to Canada with his wife, Connie, and soon after began working with the nascent Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning. After helping grow Hope Mountain Centre for 13 years with an outstanding group of people, Scott retired from his job as Administrative Director in 2021. He is a passionate birder and although retired, he remains involved with Hope Mountain Centre's bird blitzes and other events. His deep interest in birds and nature in general also keeps him active with Nature Chilliwack, an affiliate club of BC Nature, and BC Field Ornithologists. Scott also loves to spend time with gardening, nature photography, family and the most amazing grandkids. Bill Kinkaid is a member of Nature Vancouver board of directors and a former co-chair of their Botany Section. He leads many hikes and birding walks and is a Field Trip Co-ordinator for Nature Vancouver’s annual field camps. Bill has a life-long passion for birding, botany, and the human history of BC and western Canada. Bill Kink aid Intermedi ate Group Le ade r Cancellation: Sorry no refunds! You can pass on your spot to someone else who meets the physical demand of the program, just please let us know, as we need registration information from everyone. A program may be cancelled at the discretion of HMCOL. If a program is cancelled by HMCOL, participants will receive a full refund of program fees. Please be aware that our programs run regardless of weather conditions, unless HMCOL determines that it will affect the safety of participants. Additional information: Liability Waiver Everyone ages 19 & over must sign a liability waiver form in order to participate in this program. Please take the time to read this form because you must understand and agree to it when you sign it. By signing it you are waiving certain rights, including the right to sue. These forms will be available to sign when you check in. Please seek legal counsel if you have any questions. Informed Consent Form Everyone, age 18 & under must have an informed consent form signed by their parents or legal guardian in order to participate. Please contact us if you need this form prior to arrival at this program.

Indigenous Youth Outdoors Rooted in the heart of the Upper Skagit Watershed, our Indigenous Youth Outdoors program is a dedicated space for reclaiming connections to ancestral lands. While Indigenous engagement is woven into the fabric of everything we do, this specialized program area funded by the Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission focuses on helping to facilitate Indigenous Knowledge Keepers to lead the next generation in and about their traditional territories. Through land-based learning and ancestral teachings, we help create a journey of discovery that transcends typical outdoor recreation. This is about identity, stewardship, and the enduring spirit of the Upper Skagit. Program Highlights Our programming is guided by the seasons and the wisdom of local Elders, offering youth hands-on experience in activities like: Traditional Plant Walks: Identifying, harvesting, and understanding the medicinal and nutritional properties of local flora. Outdoor Survival Skills: Blending modern safety with traditional navigation and land-literacy. Oral Histories: Learning the deep history of the watershed through storytelling passed down through generations. Cultural Artistry: Immersive workshops in cedar weaving, drum making, and other artistic expressions of heritage. Why the Upper Skagit? The Upper Skagit Watershed isn't just a location; it is a relative. By bringing youth into these specific landscapes, we support the vital work of cultural continuity, ensuring that the stories and skills tied to these waters and mountains remain vibrant and lived. "We don't just walk on the land; we listen to it. This program is about giving our youth the tools to hear what the Upper Skagit has been saying for millennia." Upcoming & Past Programs/Events Women's Introduction to Backpacking 2026 Fri, Sep 18 Jacobson Lake Recreation Site More info Register Kettle Valley Railway Bike Ride Sat, Oct 03 Coquihalla Lakes Rest Area (Northbound) More info Register Women's Introduction to Backpacking 2026 (SOLD OUT) email for waitlist tmurphy@hopemountain.org Fri, Jun 26 Stein Valley Nlaka'pamux Heritage Park More info Details Nlaka'pamux Family Camp in the Skagit DemEEwuh Sun, Aug 24 Ross Lake Group Campground More info Details Finger Weaving: Weaving Through Time Sat, Mar 22 The Art Machine More info Details

Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning (HMCOL) is a registered Canadian charity BN 818663940 RR0001 and BC society S004971. The focus of HMCOL is on increasing knowledge about and access to the outdoors. A strong connection to nature empowers people to make better choices that lead society toward environmental sustainability, improved physical and mental health, and enhanced sense of community. Who is Hope Mountain Centre? Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning (HMCOL) is a registered Canadian charity BN 818663940 RR0001 and BC society S004971 providing services, programs, and events on the traditiona l and unceded territories of the Stó:lō, Nlaka’pamux and Syilx/Okanagan Nations in the northern Cascade mountain range of southwestern British Columbia. Working with people of all ages and abilities, the focus of HMCOL is on increasing knowledge about and access to the outdoors. A strong connection to nature empowers people to make better choices that lead society toward environmental sustainability, improved physical and mental health, and enhanced sense of community. Hope Mountain Centre is a proud member of the Safe Space Alliance. History Originally registered as a society on September 19, 2005 as a Fraser-Cascade School District program called “Hope Mountain School,” on February 25, 2008 the organization split into two distinct groups: Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning and Fraser-Cascade Mountain School (FCMS). FCMS continues as an outdoor experience program run by School District 78. Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning became a registered charity on June 23, 2009 to reflect its wider audience and range of programs. HMCOL still provides education programs in schools, and also leads outdoor programs for the general public, carries out numerous local conservation projects, as well as building, restoring and maintaining heritage and community hiking trails in the region.

HBC Peers Creek Grand Re-Opening – a BC Trails Day Celebration When: Saturday, June 1, 2024 Time: 9-10:30 am Where: Peers Creek Trailhead, HBC Heritage Trail Cost: FREE Registration is required. Children and youth under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Register For more information or questions, please contact Tunde at tmurphy@hopemountain.org or 604-869-1274 Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning invites you to join us for a celebration of BC Trails Day with our grand re-opening of the HBC (1849) Heritage Trail from Peers Creek to Manson’s Camp! The 2021 catastrophic atmospheric river severely damaged the area surrounding the western end of the HBC Trail. Over the last three years, the HBC trail team has been working tirelessly to build a brand new, 3km section of trail to bypass the irreparable damage, and getting the rest of it back into tip top shape for trail users. We are pleased to announce it will soon be complete, and ready to be enjoyed by all. Join us on BC Trails Day - Saturday, June 1, 2024 – for an opening ceremony and self-guided hiking experience. Itinerary/Physical Demand: Staged at the Peers Creek trailhead near Hope, the celebration will begin at 9:00am with special guest presenters. Guests are invited to explore the trail at any time they wish. Beginning at 10am, experienced HMCOL staff and volunteers will embark on the trail at staggered times, and guests are welcome to join if they wish. At 10am, a group of trail runners from Hope BC Running Club will be the first to depart, running to Manson’s Camp and back (16km round-trip). Shortly after, a faster-paced group hiking the 16km round-trip to Manson’s Camp and back will be leaving as well. The trail to Manson’s Camp gains approximately 700 metres of cumulative elevation in 8km. Then a mid-paced group also hiking the full 16km will depart. Last to depart will be a slower group that will hike 5km return to a viewpoint 2.5km into the trail and back. Note that while these groups are experienced hikers and runners with first aid training and satellite communication devices, they are not functioning as hiking or running guides; just support out on the trail if available and needed. All event guests must be self-sufficient. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow but Hope Mountain Centre encourages all hikers and runners to be knowledgeable about the route and terrain, well-prepared and well-equipped with all of the Essentials for outdoor safety including appropriate clothing and outerwear, sufficient food and water, navigation and communication materials/devices, a high lumen headlamp, first aid kit, emergency shelter (ie bivvy or emergency blanket), fire starter, signaling device (whistle or mirror), a multitool, and sun protection. With the steep terrain, hiking poles, supportive backpack, and appropriate grippy footwear are also highly recommended. The event is being held in the wilderness so all guests whether hiking or not are encouraged to be prepared and dress accordingly. There is weak and spotty cell reception in the area, a pit toilet at the trailhead, and no running water. Limited light snacks and drinks will be available, as well as HBC Trail merchandise for sale (cash only). Waterproof, topographical maps are available for $22, activewear tanktops for $25, activewear tshirts (mens and womens) for $30, and HBC mugs by the Muddy Bean for $30-$40 depending on size. Learn more about the trail at https://www.hopemountain.org/hbc-1849-heritage-trail Directions: To reach the HBC Trailhead at Peers Creek, drive 10 km east from Hope on Highway-5. Look for the Othello Exit 183 and turn right off the highway. A concrete logging bridge takes you over the Coquihalla River, connecting to the Peers Creek Forest Service Road (FSR). Follow the FSR 1.5km to the event. Note that the FSR is gravel with some potholes. Two-wheel-drive vehicles are fine but low-clearance vehicles are not recommended. Whenever you are hiking, you should always carry The Essentials Cancellation: Please let us know if your plans changed and no longer can participate so others can take your spot! Thank you! Additional information: Liability Waiver Everyone ages 19 & over must sign a liability waiver form in order to participate in this program. Please take the time to read this form because you must understand and agree to it when you sign it. By signing it you are waiving certain rights, including the right to sue. These forms will be available to sign when you check in. Please seek legal counsel if you have any questions. Informed Consent Form Everyone, age 18 & under must have an informed consent form signed by their parents or legal guardian in order to participate. Please contact us if you need this form prior to arrival at this program.

Family Day Snowshoe - "A Journey Through Time" When: Monday, February 19, 2024 Time: 9:00am-3:30pm Where: Cambie Creek, Manning Park Cost: $25/adult FREE/child (Children and youth under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian) Register For more information or questions, please contact Tunde at tmurphy@hopemountain.org or 604-869-1274 Step into the past and discover the tenacity of winter life on the frontier through a fun and engaging interpretive scavenger hunt, for children of all ages! Embark on a journey through time as educators Rowan and Moon take you through Cambie Creek Loop, offering you a glimpse into the winter lives of settlers and first nations with an engaging scavenger hunt through beautiful old-growth forest. We’ll stop for lunch along the trail, with the chance to build snow forts while we sip hot chocolate! You bring lunch and snacks; we’ll bring the hot chocolate! We have several pairs of adult snowshoes to offer, as well as children’s snowshoes for kids aged 6 to 8. If your kids are younger, consider carrying them in a child carrier backpack or towing them on a sled. All ages are welcome! Itinerary: Monday, February 19, 2024 09:00AM – Gather in Hope at the Rec Centre (1005 6 Ave, Hope ) check-in, sign waivers *Participants must arrange their own transportation. 09:30AM – Leave Hope and convoy about 45 minutes on Highway 3 to Cambie Creek trailhead 10:30AM – Arrive at Cambie Creek Trail Head 10:45PM – Begin snowshoe trip 12:30PM – Lunch break 01:00PM – Snow fort construction, hot chocolate consumption! 02:00PM – Snowshoe back to the parking lot 02:30PM – Leave Cambie Creek trailhead 03:30PM – Arrive back in Hope *Be aware that times are approximate! Start and end times may vary slightly depending on speed of the group, weather and road conditions, etc . Price includes: Fun interpretive guided tour Use of our snowsh oes (please let us know during registration if you and/or your child/ren require a pair) Trip leaders will provide first-aid support, emergency practices/communications, and hot chocolate Physical demand: We will snowshoe a total distance of 2.9 km round trip. The terrain is a gentle slope with 70 metres of cumulative elevation gain. In the Manning Park area average February temperatures range from -8C to 0C. Please check the weather forecast prior to the event and dress appropriately as it may be much colder or warmer. What to bring: Whenever you are hiking, you should always carry The Essentials At a minimum, participants will need the following for this outing: Backpack to carry all your gear Lunch and high-energy snack foods Water (at least 1 litre per person) Waterproof winter boots or hiking boots (no runners please) Warm winter clothes (no cotton as the first layer against your skin); including jacket, nylon snow pants, gloves, toque, warm socks Two poles per person for snowshoeing (optional, but greatly improves stability) Sunglasses, sunscreen, chap stick, camera We will have the following to lend you but feel free to bring your own: Foam pad to sit on in the snow Mug for hot chocolate! Small portable snow shovel Meet Your Guides Rowan Lalonde Rowan is driven to explore paths where she can contribute to positive impacts at the community level or spark curiosity for the world. She is an experienced thru trekker and canoe tripper, with an eager draw to whitewater adventure. Whether up a tree, covered in mud, or in the thick of river rapids she believes there is so much play and peace to be found on the land and in the wild spaces we share. Having recently moved to Hope, Rowan says feels so lucky to be able to spend her days sharing her learning and supporting youth in our community as they learn to be stewards of the natural world and grow to feel empowered in their climate futures. Moon Pruvost Moon is Hope Mountain Centre’s Program Director. She is an experienced educator and backcountry mountain guide. Her passion for the natural world and grizzly bears led her to study Wildlife and Forestry Conservation. She is certified in Wilderness First Aid, Avalanche Skills Training, Leave No Trace Master Educator and has experience as a bush craft/survival instructor. Moon loves to share her knowledge and love of the outdoors with people of all ages! When she is not guiding, you can usually find her exploring the outdoors with her puppy, Kenai. Nate Brown Nate Refunds/Cancellations: Sorry no refunds! You can pass on your spot to someone else who meets the physical demand of the program, just please let us know, as we need registration information from everyone. A program may be cancelled at the discretion of HMCOL. If a program is cancelled by HMCOL, participants will receive a full refund of program fees. Please be aware that our programs run regardless of weather conditions, unless HMCOL determines that it will affect the safety of participants. Additional information: Liability Waiver Everyone ages 19 & over must sign a liability waiver form in order to participate in this program. Please take the time to read this form because you must understand and agree to it when you sign it. By signing it you are waiving certain rights, including the right to sue. These forms will be available to sign when you check in. Please seek legal counsel if you have any questions. Informed Consent Form Everyone, age 18 & under must have an informed consent form signed by their parents or legal guardia n in order to participate. Please contact us if you need this form prior to arrival at this program.

Hope Mountain Centre provides some fee-based programs and events open to the general public in addition to the many grant funded education, conservation and trail work we provide for free. Browse below to see upcoming programs including conservation and education-based outdoor skills development and guided adventure programs. Upcoming Events Volunteer Appreciation & Engagement Event Wed, Aug 26 More info Register Women's Introduction to Backpacking 2026 Fri, Sep 18 More info Register World Rivers Day Guided Paddle 2026 Sun, Sep 27 More info Register Kettle Valley Railway Bike Ride Sat, Oct 03 More info Register Past Programs and Events See photos from recent programs here on our Flickr profile . Fri, Jun 26 Women's Introduction to Backpacking 2026 (SOLD OUT) email for waitlist tmurphy@hopemountain.org / Stein Valley Nlaka'pamux Heritage Park Details Jun 26, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – Jun 28, 2026, 3:30 p.m. Stein Valley Nlaka'pamux Heritage Park, Stein Valley, Lytton, BC V0K 1Z0, Canada Ready to trade your daypack for a multi-day adventure? Join a supportive community of women for a 3-day immersion into the heart of the Stein Valley Nlaka'pamux Heritage Park. +7 more Fri, Jun 19 Manning Park Bird Blitz 2026 / Lone Duck 1 Campsite, Manning Park Details Jun 19, 2026, 2:00 p.m. – Jun 21, 2026, 12:00 p.m. Lone Duck 1 Campsite, Manning Park, Lone Duck 1 Manning Park +45 more Fri, May 08 Skagit Valley Bird Blitz 2026 / Ross Lake Group Campsite Details May 08, 2026, 4:00 p.m. – May 10, 2026, 2:00 p.m. Ross Lake Group Campsite, Silver Skagit Rd, Hope, BC V0X 1L2, Canada +24 more Sat, Apr 18 Backcountry Navigation and Orienteering / Thacker Mountain Loop Trail Details Apr 18, 2026, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Thacker Mountain Loop Trail, Thacker Mountain Rd, Hope, BC V0X 1L1, Canada Learn the basics of map reading and route planning, as well as how to use a compass, take a bearing, and find your way should you step off the trail and get lost. See All Fri, Apr 10 VIMFF Film Screening / ALMSGIVING Hope Cinema & Performance Details Apr 10, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. ALMSGIVING Hope Cinema & Performance, 376 Wallace St, Hope, BC V0X 1L0, Canada Join Hope Mountain Centre & Blue Moose Coffee House for a screening of films from Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival. This evening of exciting films at the Almsgiving Hope Cinema includes films spanning hiking, rock and ice climbing, skiing, paddling, mountain biking, and more. +105 more Mon, Mar 02 HMCOL AGM + Film Screening / Mountainview Brewing Co. Details Mar 02, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Mountainview Brewing Co., 390 Old Hope Princeton Way, Hope, BC V0X 1L4, Canada Attend our Annual General Meeting (AGM) to learn about what we got up to in 2025, and watch the film Gold Rush: Nuggets They Left Behind See All Sat, Feb 21 Snowshoes & Science: A Winter Exploration of Ottomite Mountain / Ottomite Mountain Details Feb 21, 2026, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Ottomite Mountain, Coquihalla Summit +5 more Fri, Feb 13 Trivia Night - Wild Sex Education / Mountainview Brewing Details Feb 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Mountainview Brewing, 390 Old Hope Princeton Way, Hope, BC V0X 1L4, Canada Think you’ve had some strange dates? Wait until you hear what slugs, swans, and octopodes get up to when the lights go down... +50 more Load More Check out these great programs provided by our friends at Ascent Fraser Valley. Visit ascentfv.com to learn more and register. Note the content and all programs below are provided by Ascent Fraser Valley, not Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning (HMCOL). HMCOL is not responsible for its content or privacy practices.

Wells Peak trail Eaton Lake Trail Stats Trailhead Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4DBTWKdNZhRaTomu6 Round Trip Trail Distance in KM: 10.5 Elevation Gain in M: 924 Highest Point in M: 1350 Dogs Allowed: Yes (on leash) 4 X 4 Needed: No Map & Elevation Profile Trail Access The trailhead and parking lot are located at the top of Mt. Hope Forest Service Road, accessed off of the Crowsnest Highway 3. The dirt and gravel road is steep in some sections with occasional ditches requiring a vehicle with clearance to make it up. Here is the google map for the parking lot: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4DBTWKdNZhRaTomu6 The parking lot is the same for both the Hope Mountain and Wells Peak trails. Dogs on-leash are permitted on the trail, but please be responsible to ensure they are picked up after and do not wander off the trail to disturb wildlife or the surrounding habitat. The trail is located just outside the town of Hope. There is a pit toilet ("loo with a view") at the top of the trail. When hiking every trail please practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out anything you pack in. Trail Description Stay tuned for more info to be updated soon At the top of the trail be sure to fill out the logbook. Note there is cell phone reception on parts of this trail but it's always best to download any electronic maps you plan on using beforehand such as Gaia GPS or AllTrails . Trail Work Hope Mountain Centre's trail team continues to maintain the trail each year thanks to funding support from the District of Hope and others. See a full list of our partners here . Other Trails Nearby Trail Reports Feel free to leave a comment below with trail reports so other users can learn about current conditions. To ask us a question or to report an issue with the trail, please email our trails team kpearce@hopemountain.org or info@hopemountain.org as we do not monitor this comment section regularly. Alternatively, feel free to post in our "Friends of Hope & Area Trails " Facebook group to let our team know, as well as learn about all the latest work happening on the trails we manage. comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment.

Thacker Marsh trail Thacker Marsh Trail Stats Trailhead Location: https://g.co/kgs/4t2k4Ws Round Trip Trail Distance in KM: 1.5km Elevation Gain in M: 0 Highest Point in M: 70 Dogs Allowed: Yes (on leash) 4 X 4 Needed: No Map Trail Access The trailhead and parking lot are accessed off of Union Bar Rd. Here is the google map for the parking lot: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vsEJ8YQd8fRvh8Yh6 The trail is located inside the town of Hope at the base of Thacker Mountain. There is a pit toilet and garbage can near the parking lot. When hiking every trail please practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out anything you pack in. Trail Description A gently graded gravel trail take you alongside Thacker Marsh connecting from Sucker's Creek where it meets the Fraser River, east to Kettle Valley Road. There is also a short trail connecting you to Union Bar Road where you can get a different view of the marsh from the roadside. This marsh is home to an abundance of wildlife including beavers, great blue heron, red-winged blackbirds, and more. It is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, including bird watching, and seeing salmon spawning. Dogs on-leash are permitted on the trail, but please be responsible to ensure they are picked up after and do not wander off the trail to disturb wildlife or the surrounding habitat. There is cell phone reception on this trail but it's always best to download any electronic maps you plan on using beforehand such as Gaia GPS or AllTrails . Other Trails Nearby Trail Reports Feel free to leave a comment below with trail reports so other users can learn about current conditions. This trail is managed by FVRD . Please contact them to report any issues with the trail. Email them using the contact form here or call 604-702-5077. comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment.

Young Stewards o f our Wetlands Grad e 4 This program introduces students to the importance of wetland ecosystems on the planet Earth. Key concepts such as “food chain” and “food web” are explored, and kids get to dipnet in a local wetland to catch insects, fish and amphibians. Up-close inspection reveals the physical adaptations of these creatures for life in fresh water. Contact us for more information about educational programs we can do for your group. Contact our Outdoor Educator Claire at cgrantham@hopemountain.org , or call/text 403-895-4121. Location : Thacker Marsh, Cheam Wetlands. Grade : 4 Curriculum Overview : Pond Community Program: learning outcomes, pre-trip, field trip, post-trip. CURRICULUM OVERVIEW Teacher Feedback: “Such a great program! So well organized and executed and the staff did a great job to keep the kids engaged. The staff had all the materials and were setup and ready to go.” “The program meets the needs of the students in a most excellent manner; talking with the kids and then doing a game related to the outcomes is excellent and sound educational practice.” “I would like to thank you for an absolutely wonderful experience. Everyone was so gracious and helpful. The learning curve went well above that of any in house classroom experience. We thoroughly enjoyed the trip, and the parents were thrilled with the opportunity for their children. (We had a meet-the-teacher night shortly after the field trip and they wanted to share how excited their children were about the day.)” “We had a wonderful time at the pond. The students loved it and wished they could have stayed longer to find more things. The team that came up were terrific and did a wonderful job!” “All I can say is ‘Thank you, thank you, thank you,’ for this experience for my class. So many parents approve of this sort of learning, where the kids go out and ‘do,’ and for me, as a professional, there is something in the kids going out and experiencing wetlands first hand that strikes a chord with me. It is my fervent hope that as these kids are learning to love their environment – through things like wetland visits – they will in turn be inspired as adults of the future to care for the environment . . . The marsh visit is a highlight of my school year. I find it incredible – and to think it is only a half hour walk from our school!” “The kids really enjoyed the program, and I thought it was excellent! The classroom session and field trip were both fantastic. The kids loved the food web game, and on the field trip they loved collecting their organisms! Allowing the kids to collect and observe the organisms was so awesome! Being able to see some of them through the microscopes was really neat for them as well! . . . Everything was awesome!!! Thanks so much!”