Introduction to Nature Journaling

Introduction to Nature Journaling

Hike Overview Continued

Instructor: Hillary Parker

July 25, 2026 at 8am

July 31, 2026 at 8am

Nature Journaling is a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty and grandeur of Glacier National Park, while learning how to become more present and connected to your surroundings. Join Montana master naturalist and international award-winning artist, Hillary Parker for this relaxing and engaging course that introduces you to Nature Journaling, where you will learn new skills to combine words and sketches, while engaging your senses to sharpen your observation and slow down as you foster a deeper connection to the natural world. No previous art experience or hiking experience is necessary, just bring your love of nature and creative curiosity! Basic skills in keen observation, journaling, and sketching techniques will be shared and practiced as we take a few walks/light hikes along trails with different types of scenery, stopping often to explore, respond and record your thoughts, feelings and observations freely, in fun and creative ways. All professional grade art supplies will be provided for use for the duration of this course, and you will receive a journal at the beginning of the course for you to work in and to keep.

Meeting Place: Glacier Institute Field Camp

Itinerary: (subject to change due to trail closures and weather) To make the most of our time together, we will be gathering on Saturday morning at Field Camp at 7:45am for coffee and introductions before loading into the van and departing at 8:00 am for our first beautiful location. Hillary will share the course introduction, supply kits and journaling/sketching ideas with everyone in the van as we drive. We will be visiting 3-4 different locations throughout the day, each spot with a very different viewpoint and unique, natural environment. We will spread out at each location for everyone to find a quiet spot and have approximately one hour of tranquil, independent Nature Journaling time. Hillary will be sharing further instruction and ideas through group discussion in the van, on route to each new location. Hillary will also provide one-on-one guidance and demonstrations, working with those wanting support throughout the day. We will enjoy our lunches in an area with a breathtaking vista where you will also have an opportunity to share journal entries and experiences of the day if you wish. We will be returning to Field Camp at the end of the course by 3:30.

NOTES: ALL art supplies are provided for the duration of this course. A backpack is recommended to carry art supplies, water, hat, sunscreen and your lunch. Also plan to bring a light-weight portable chair to sit on while working on location and be sure to bring your own lunch.

Food:  Please bring a trail lunch, plenty of water and snacks for the day.

Park Entrance Fees: Participants are responsible for purchasing their park entry passes prior to the course. These can be purchased online at:  https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74280.

Physical Requirements: Walking/Easy Light hiking 

Recommended Reading: 

• The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing and Journaling by John Muir Laws
• Wildflowers of Glacier National Park by Shannon Kimball and Peter Lesica
• Plants of the Rocky Mountains by Kershaw, MacKinnon and Pojar