Spend five days delving deep into the 35,000 acres that make up the Opal Creek Watershed.  Spared from logging, the entire watershed is intact and pristine, from ridge top to ridge top. Hike among the spectacular old growth trees, waterfalls, and rushing rivers that have given this area such national recognition.  We’ll explore the incredible diversity of mammals, insects, fish, and birds that inhabit this ancient forest.  Grab a dip-net and try and catch frogs, salamanders and aquatic insects.  Compare and contrast species diversity between the rushing creeks and the serene subalpine lakes. Put on snorkel gear, and watch the underwater world of Opal Creek happen. We’ll base our explorations at Jawbone Flats, our historic mining town in the heart of the Opal Creek Wilderness. We will spend two nights camped up the Cedar Creek drainage, giving us easier access to the deeper reaches of the watershed. There will be plenty of time for making new friends and stories under the stars.    

If you were lost in the mountains would you know how to take care of yourself?  Spend 5 days in the old growth forests of the western Cascades to learn and practice the skills and knowledge needed to take care of yourself and others in mountainous areas.  Obtain safe drinking water and learn the latest techniques for purification.  Pitch tents and emergency shelters.  Make rope out of plants and learn to tie basic knots.  Practice wilderness first aid skills.  Learn to properly use a map and compass, as well as a GPS system, to help navigate your way.  Swim and snorkel in the Little North Fork of the Santiam River and learn proper water safety techniques.  We will base our explorations from Jawbone Flats, our historic mining town in the heart of the Opal Creek Wilderness.   Use the skills you learn, when we spend one night camped out in the ancient forest a couple of miles from camp.  There will be plenty of time for making new friends and stories under the stars.

 Join us for 5 fantastic days exploring the mysteries of the ancient forest surrounding Opal Creek.  We will hike beneath centuries old trees and rushing waterfalls.  Learn how to catch and ID butterflies before carefully letting them go.  Grab a dip net and search the rivers for frogs, salamanders, and insects.  Look under logs and rocks deep in the forest to see what types of critters are living there.  Swim and snorkel in the cool waters of the Little North Fork of the Santiam River, and watch the underwater world in action.  In the evenings, learn about the night sky and listen for owls.   We will base our explorations at Jawbone Flats, our historic mining town in the heart of the Opal Creek Wilderness.  There will be plenty of time for making new friends and stories under the stars. 

“Opal Creek Beginning Backpack- Level 1”
July 28-August 1, 2008
Ages: 10-12
Cost: $340

Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center is excited to introduce our Level 1 – Beginning Backpack to our schedule this year.  Our back country experienced and WFR certified instructional staff will be the guides on this adventure heading a little deeper into the wilds of Opal Creek.  Learn about backpacking and outdoor skills as you hike among the tall trees of the ancient forest.  We will learn and practice safe wilderness travel skills, including cooking on a camp stove, packing for a backpacking trip, and knot tying.  We will have plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters.

The first two nights will be spent in Jawbone Flats, preparing and practicing some basic skills around camp.  We will do two practice hikes through the forests near camp to prepare for our larger hike with our backpacks.  The mileage and elevation gain will be appropriate for kids ages 10-12. Opal Creek will provide all food, but participants are responsible for their own gear.  A full gear list will be sent upon registration. Join us on this fantastic introduction to backpacking in one of the most beautiful forests in Oregon. 

All Opal Creek wilderness explorations follow Leave No Trace principles and federal wilderness regulations.  We limit our group sizes to 10, and maintain a student instructor ratio of 1:5.