By Daniel Collay and Ranger Emma Lutz

This summer marked the fourth year of Monument Days, a partnership between Friends of Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument and The Crest, made possible with generous support from the Gray Family Foundation, which helps sustain youth education programs. Every Wednesday campers from The Crest’s Summer Nature Day Camp joined our interpretive rangers on excursions in the Monument to connect with its immense biodiversity. Since its start, the program has connected hundreds of children with the Monument. This year, 214 young learners participated in hikes, games, and creative activities designed to spark curiosity and connection with the natural world.

Reflections from Ranger Emma

Campers ages six to eleven were led through conifer forests and oak grasslands along the Green Springs Mountain Loop Trail. They shook the hands, or should I say the needles, of white firs, Douglas firs, and ponderosa pines, and learned that the difference between white and black oak is the shape of their leaves’ lobes.

Games involving echolocation and hawk-like eyesight were played throughout the hike, giving campers a new perspective on how wildlife navigates the world and helping to build up an appetite. Lunch came with a sweeping view of the Rogue Valley, where we identified Mt. Ashland, Pilot Rock, and the soon-to-be wildlife corridor across I-5. This time was also used for solitude, nature journaling, and, whenever possible, lizard hunting.

Walks back were often quieter than the way out, but the discovery of wild strawberries, thimbleberry, and miner’s lettuce along the trail always brought smiles. Back at our base camp, the afternoons were filled with storytelling, fort building, and lots of watermelon.

Thanks to everyone who made Monument Days 2025 possible. With each passing year, the program continues to grow, inspiring the next generation of stewards for this incredible place. We are especially grateful to our partners at The Crest and to the Gray Family Foundation for making this program possible