Ranger-Led Education Programs

Interpretive rangers are available to present curriculum-based education programs for your class if scheduled far enough in advance. Requests for programs should be made at least 6 weeks in advance of the field trip. Three curriculum-based programs are currently offered. Due to demand and staffing availability, we are usually able to only offer one ranger program per visiting group. Please email us at [e-mail] or call the visitor center at 530-667-8113 for more information, or to make program reservations.

 

Mushpot Cave

NPS Photo

Mushpot Cave Geology Program

This 45 minute introductory slide show is presented in the underground amphitheater inside Mushpot Cave. The program is designed to engage elementary and middle school students in learning about the Medicine Lake shield volcano, how the lava tube caves form, how to cave safely, and how and why it is important for students to protect the caves as they explore. The amphitheater is able to accommodate groups of up to 50 people.

 

The entrance to Valentine Cave.

NPS Photo

Valentine Cave Tour

This ranger-led program explores one of the monument's most popular lava tube caves. During the tour a ranger will explain the process of how lava tube caves are formed, point out the spectacular cave features, and introduce students to the fascinating critters that live in caves. The tour lasts roughly one hour, and groups larger than 30 are recommended to split into two groups and request two tours.

 

Keintpoos, also known as Captain Jack

Captain Jack's Stronghold Walk

This program takes students through Captain Jack's Stronghold, a natural lava fortress that was one of the most important sites of the Modoc War (1872-1873.) The hour-long program immerses students the culture of the Modocs while giving the progression of this tragic war including the events leading up to the conflict, victories and defeats on both sides, and the eventual outcome. Due to the narrow, enclosed nature of the Stronghold trail, groups of more than 30 are recommended to split into groups and request back-to-back tours if rangers are available.