INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS

Nature Journaling

Through nature journaling and guided exercises, you'll learn to observe and capture the beauty of nature with precision and creativity.

Sunday, May 18th from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Sign up HERE

This engaging workshop will not only enhance your artistic skills but also deepen your connection with the natural world. Through guided exercises, you'll learn to observe and capture the beauty of nature with precision and creativity. Journaling alongside your drawings fosters mindfulness, boosts memory, and enriches your appreciation of the environment. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, this session offers a perfect blend of relaxation and education. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature in a meaningful and creative way!

Isabel Jalamov is a recent graduate of SOU’s M.S. Environmental Education program, currently serving as an AmeriCorps member focused on outdoor education at Ruch Outdoor Community School. Originally from central Ohio, she discovered her deep affinity for the Rogue Valley during her graduate studies. She previously served as a student board member for the Friends of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument and now serves as the secretary, continuing to dedicate herself to the organization's mission. Isabel is eager to share her love for mindfulness and connection with nature and community.

Buck Rock Tunnel Archaeological History Tour

Discover a relic of railroad history in Southern Oregon with SOU's Oregon Chinese Diaspora Project for AAPI Heritage Month!

Saturday, May 31st from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Sign up here

Join the Friends of Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, Bureau of Land Management and Southern Oregon University Laboratory of Anthropology for a guided history hike at the Buck Rock Tunnel on Saturday, May 31st! Southern Oregon University’s Oregon Chinese Diaspora Project has spent years investigating Buck Rock Tunnel, the original Oregon and California Railroad route through the Siskiyou mountains. The tunnel and surrounding railroad grade were under construction between 1883-1884 by Chinese railroad workers. The project is a collaboration between the Southern Oregon University Laboratory of Anthropology (SOULA) and the BLM, and is part of the larger multi-agency research project that is investigating Chinese immigrant sites from across the state.

You can join in on the discovery by attending a guided history hike to the site. BLM and SOU archaeologists and students will present artifacts and updates on the project findings, historical maps, and information about the history of the Buck Rock Tunnel in the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument.

Directions: We will meet at 9:00 AM and carpool from the Rite Aid parking lot at 2341 Ashland St, Ashland, OR 97520.

Hike Duration: Around 4 miles total (2 miles out and back)

Hike Length: approximately 2.5 hours

Difficulty Level: Moderately strenuous

On the day of the hike:

Be sure to bring a sense of adventure.

Wear comfortable hiking shoes

Bring snacks and enough water for the day

Additional items: Hat, Sunscreen, Walking Sticks, Binoculars, Hand Lens Bring layers

Please be considerate of the group and meet on time at the designated location.

For more information about the tours, send inquiries to Zaynab Brown at info@cascadesiskiyou.org

Forest Therapy

Sunday, June 22nd from 9:00 - 3:00 PM

Sign up HERE

A guided forest therapy session is a slow, mindful exploration of nature designed to reconnect with oneself, others, and the environment through all our senses. Participants are invited to slow down, tune into their surroundings, and engage in various sensory activities like slowly walking, meditating, and mindful observation. The goal is to cultivate a sense of presence and connection with the natural world, which can lead to stress reduction, improved mood, and increased well-being.

Here's a more detailed look at what to expect:

Introduction and Setting the Intention: The session begins with a brief explanation of Forest Therapy and its benefits, along with an opportunity to set personal intentions for the experience.

Guided Walk and Sensory Engagement: Participants are guided on a gentle slow, mindful walk through the forest, with invitations to notice the sights, sounds, smells, textures, and tastes of the surroundings.

Meditation and Mindfulness Practices: There may be moments for guided meditation or mindful breathing exercises to help participants deepen their connection with nature and their own bodies.

Reflections and Sharing: Participants may be invited to share their observations and reflections with the group, fostering a sense of community and connection.

Relaxation and Stillness: The session may include moments of quiet contemplation, allowing participants to rest, relax, and connect.

Concluding Reflections: The session may end with a period of reflection on the experience and its impact, providing an opportunity to integrate the learnings.

Dawn Cogliser, MSN, FNP-BC, CARN-AP, CHC is a Family Nurse Practitioner and founder of Healing Mama Wellness. Dawn is also a Certified Forest Therapy Guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, a Certified EcoNIRA teacher, and founder of EcoRECOVERY for people in recovery from addiction.She is certified in both wilderness first aid/CPR and wilderness mental health first aid and is a registered Guide in Oregon and Redwood National Park. Dawn is an outdoors enthusiast crediting nature immersion as part of her personal healing journey. She knows first-hand how nature connection improves both physical and mental health. Dawn enjoys guiding both community and private groups and takes pride in creating inclusive events for people with most disabilities.

Her motto is “Nature is for every BODY!”

Dawn believes when we raise the health and wellness of just one person, we raise the health and wellness of the community as a whole.

Previous Hikes

Snowshoe Hikes with the BLM

December 21st, January 11th, February 8th

Embark on a winter adventure! Join BLM interpretive rangers on a snowshoe hike through the enchanting conifer forest at Hyatt Lake Recreation Area. Suitable for ages 12 and up, these Saturday excursions offer a unique opportunity to explore the biodiversity of a stunning winter landscape. Rangers will interpret winter adaptations of plants and animals, animal tracks and signs, the basics of snow science, and the environment that hides beneath the snow. Lace up your boots and join us for an unforgettable journey into nature! Snowshoes and poles are provided free-of-cost by the BLM.