Forest Processes Field Trip Schedule

Flexibility for weather conditions, bus problems, etc…is essential to having an enjoyable visit to the park. No two school programs are exactly alike, but the following schedule represents a typical trip.

8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Travel to the Park
Simple assignments can be completed by seatmates or individuals during this time. Point out sights along the way that relate to the park story such as previously burned areas and changes in plant communities along the highways and as you look from the base of the mountains to the summits. You may also want to review vocabulary words or ecological concepts.

9:30 a.m. – 11:15 Drive from West Glacier to Avalanche and Activities with Rangers
Fall field trips will meet the rangers at the Avalanche Picnic Area next to the Trail of the Cedars and participate in activities in the picnic area.

9:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Optional (Spring only): Native Plant Nursery Tour
The native plant nursery staff will give a tour of the nursery and have students participate in stations to learn about propagating native plants.

11:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Lunch, Bathroom Breaks and Clean-Up

11:45 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. Hike Trail of the Cedars
Classes will be split into two groups and one ranger will go with each group. Rangers will stop along the trail to involve the students in short activities to learn about photosynthesis, decomposition, seasonal changes, plant structures, soil formation, competition and other interrelationships in the forest.

1:15 – 1:30 p.m. Bathroom Breaks and Conclusion
Ranger(s) review the educational objectives for the day and engage all of the students in a fun activity to assess their learning.

1:30 - 1:45 p.m. – Bus Leaves the Park