Diablo Lake Boat Tours Join us for ... with NORTH CASCADES INSTITUTE
Droppers
Jack
McLeod Kiley Ri ell David
NORTH CASCADES INSTITUTE 's mission
is to
Inspire environmental stewardship through transformative
learning
experiences in nature
Founded in 1986, we are a nonprofit conservation organization who help people of all ages and backgrounds experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forests and human communities of the North Cascades—so all will care for and protect this special place.
Many of our programs take place at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center, a hub of discovery and adventure operated in partnership with the National Park Service and Seattle City Light. The campus is on Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park and features modern accommodations, delicious food service, access to the lake, a library, classrooms, trails and mountain views.
We believe that shared experiences in nature strengthen community. Everyone benefits when people have equitable access to natural places and spaces for education, recreation and renewal. Will you join us on this journey?
Kim Nelson
SUPPORT OUR MISSION Make a donation at ncascades.org/donate Shop in our online store at ncascades.org/shop @ncascades
SCHOOL & YOUTH PROGRAMS
We believe that hands-on learning about the environment begins in childhood—which is why it’s one of our priorities to serve young people. We foster equitable access to outdoor spaces with opportunities for young people to discover, reflect, learn, grow and thrive.
Mountain School
A 3-day, 2-night hands-on learning program serving local 5th grade students at the Environmental Learning Center with a focus on science and the natural and cultural history of the North Cascades.
ncascades.org/mountainschool
Youth Leadership Adventures
Through backpacking and canoe camping trips, diverse high school students develop outdoor skills, practice leadership and engage in climate change solutions. These immersive experiences on public lands empower the next generation of environmental leaders.
ncascades.org/youth
ADULT & FAMILY PROGRAMS
From the North Cascades to the Skagit and Methow Valleys to the Salish Sea, learn about the natural and cultural history of the region in small groups led by passionate instructors and naturalists. We’ll even meet you online wherever you are!
Family Getaways
Connect with your family—and nature, too—with handson learning and fun activities for all ages. Enjoy outdoor games, canoe voyages and campfires under the stars with lodging and meals included. Multi-generational groups and non-traditional families welcome! July-August
ncascades.org/family
Base Camp Learning & Lodging
Enjoy North Cascades National Park with comfortable lodging, three delicious meals, and guided learning adventures like gentle hikes, seasonal nature explorations and stargazing. Summers
ncascades.org/basecamp
Conferences & Retreats
Gather at the Environmental Learning Center for your next training, workshop, reunion or other group event with lodging and facilities for up to 92 guests, meals and educational programming. Year-round
ncascades.org/retreats
Skagit Tours
Take a boat tour on Diablo Lake for spectacular views and to learn about the natural and cultural history of the Upper Skagit Valley. Or enjoy a homemade chicken dinner at the historic Gorge Inn and walking tour of Newhalem. July-Sept
ncascades.org/skagittours
REGISTER Call 360-854-2599 or visit ncascades.org/get _ outside
Scholarships & discounts for students, military and disability may be available
Adult & Family Learning
Explore our wild backyard with Field Excursions and Online Classes exploring a range of engaging topics with local experts—birding, mushrooms, photography, watercolors, geology and more. Year-round
ncascades.org/classes
2024 FIELD EXCURSIONS
3/30 Outdoor Survival Skills
4/20-21 Columbia Basin Natural History Ramble
5/4 Waterfall and Stream Photography
5/4 Birding Bellingham Bay on the Snow Goose
5/12 Snake Count in the Methow Valley
5/18-19 San Juan Islands Exploration on the Orion
5/31-6/2 Spring Birding in the Methow Valley
6/8 Geologic Evolution of the Skagit River Watershed
7/14 Chasing Butterflies in the North Cascades
8/3-4 Night Sky Photography at Washington Pass
8/** Northwest Pollinator Diversity
8/24 Amphibians of PNW Ponds and Streams
8/31-9/1 Night Sky Photography at Artist Point
9/** North Cascades Carnivores
9/** Autumn Writing Workshop
9/28 Powerhouse Insider Tour
10/12 Fall Colors Photography
10/26 Baker Lake Fungal Foray
11/2 Mushrooms of Cascadia
12/** Skagit Valley Winter Birding 2
** See ncascades.org/classes for dates
2024 ONLINE CLASSES
3/27 Wildfire in the North Cascades
4/10 Understanding Bird Songs
4/24 Wolves in Washington Update
5/1 A Guide to Hidden Hikes in the North Cascades
5/8 It All Begins in the Nest
9/18 Soul of the Skagit: Climate Change & Conservation
12/8 Snowy Cascades Watercolor Workshop
To hear about new classes and programs, sign up for our eNewsletter ncascades.org/fieldnotes
Angela Burlile Kiley Kielland