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.
West Side
8:30 - 9:30 am 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 - 11:15 am Drive to Trailhead to Meet Rangers
Students will meet the rangers and participate in activities near the trailhead.
11:15 - 11:45 am Lunch, Bathroom Breaks, Clean-Up
11:45 - 1:15 pm Hike the Trail
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 pm 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 pm - Bus Leaves the Park
East Side
8:00 - 10:00 am Travel to the Park
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Hike the Trail
Trailhead at Two Medicine Lake. South Shore Trail to Aster Falls, 2 miles round trip
12:00 - 12:30 pm Lunch, Bathroom Breaks, Clean-Up
12:30 - 1:15 pm Activities with a Ranger
1:15 - 1:30 pm 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 pm - Bus Leaves the Park
