Distance
2 Miles
Elevation Gain
100 Feet
Difficulty
Easy
Cost Per Person
$75
Program Overview
Multiple: Immerse yourself in the transformative rhythms of nature with “Welcome to the Seasons” where we’ll explore the beauty of phenology, nature journaling, and the mindful practice of forest bathing. In this course, we’ll begin each session by connecting deeply with the natural world through forest bathing—allowing you to slow down and engage your senses as you fully experience the sights, sounds, and textures of the forest. Afterward, you’ll have time to reflect on your experience and observations through guided nature journaling. By tracking seasonal changes and recording your reflections, you’ll deepen your connection to nature, enhancing mindfulness and fostering a renewed sense of wonder. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced nature lover, this course invites you to
embrace the seasons with intention and creativity.
Sessions will be held on the following dates:
● January 4th: 10am – 12pm
● April 4th: 10am – 1pm
● June 21st: 10am – 2pm
● September 27th: 10am – 2pm
Welcome to the Seasons
Hike Overview Continued
● January 4th: 10am – 12pm
● April 4th: 10am – 1pm
● June 21st: 10am – 2pm
● September 27th: 10am – 2pm
Immerse yourself in the transformative rhythms of nature with “Welcome to the Seasons” where we’ll explore the beauty of phenology, nature journaling, and the mindful practice of forest bathing. In this course, we’ll begin each session by connecting deeply with the natural world through forest bathing—allowing you to slow down and engage your senses as you fully experience the sights, sounds, and textures of the forest. Afterward, you’ll have time to reflect on your experience and observations through guided nature journaling. By tracking seasonal changes and recording your reflections, you’ll deepen your connection to nature, enhancing mindfulness and fostering a renewed sense of wonder. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced nature lover, this course invites you to
embrace the seasons with intention and creativity.
Sessions will be held on the following dates:
● January 4th: 10am – 12pm
● April 4th: 10am – 1pm
● June 21st: 10am – 2pm
● September 27th: 10am – 2pm
Meeting Place: Glacier Institute Nature Center, 7450 HWY 2 E, Columbia Falls, MT, 59912
Itinerary: (subject to change due to trail closures and weather) We will gather at the Nature Center for introductions and course overview. We will stay nearby and connect with the natural world around us. The course will not be canceled due to weather.
Food: Please bring a trail lunch, plenty of water and snacks for the day.
Academic Credit: Please see our ‘2026 Academic Credit’ link on our website to learn about OPI credits for our courses.
Equipment: A journal and micron pen is recommended, but you can succeed in this course with just a notepad and pencil. If you would like to use color and have access to more art materials, please bring them along. Otherwise, look at the basic gear list for other gear items.
Physical Requirements: Easy. We will hike no more than 1 – 2 miles total with under 100 feet of elevation gain.
What to Expect On Your Welcoming to the Seasons
June 21st at 10 a.m.: Immerse yourself in the transformative rhythms of nature with “Welcome to the Seasons” where we’ll explore the beauty of phenology, nature journaling, and the mindful practice of forest bathing. In this course, we’ll begin each session by connecting deeply with the natural world through forest bathing—allowing you to slow down and engage your senses as you fully experience the sights, sounds, and textures of the forest. Afterward, you’ll have time to reflect on your experience and observations through guided nature journaling. By tracking seasonal changes and recording your reflections, you’ll deepen your connection to nature, enhancing mindfulness and fostering a renewed sense of wonder. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced nature lover, this course invites you to
embrace the seasons with intention and creativity.
Sessions will be held on the following dates:
● January 4th: 10am – 12pm
● April 4th: 10am – 1pm
● June 21st: 10am – 2pm
● September 27th: 10am – 2pm
* Any trails listed on this program or others are subject to change due to trail closure, weather, trail conditions, or wildlife.
Program Details
Meeting Place: Glacier Institute Nature Center, 7450 HWY 2 E, Columbia Falls, MT, 59912
Itinerary: (subject to change due to trail closures and weather) We will gather at the Nature Center for introductions and course overview. We will stay nearby and connect with the natural world around us. The course will not be canceled due to weather.
Food: Please bring a trail lunch, plenty of water and snacks for the day.
Academic Credit: Please see our ‘2026 Academic Credit’ link on our website to learn about OPI credits for our courses.
Equipment: A journal and micron pen is recommended, but you can succeed in this course with just a notepad and pencil. If you would like to use color and have access to more art materials, please bring them along. Otherwise, look at the basic gear list for other gear items.
Physical Requirements: Easy. We will hike no more than 1 – 2 miles total with under 100 feet of elevation gain.
What to Bring
Please remember that weather in NW Montana during all seasons can change quickly from warm and sunny to freezing at any time of the year. We recommend checking the weather prior to your trip. Please also check your course information sheet for specific gear requirements in addition to those listed below.
- Lightweight hiking boots or a sturdy pair of hiking shoes
- 2 liter sized water bottle or Camelback
- Day Pack with plastic bag liner or cover
- Waterproof rain jacket and pants
- Sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellant & lip balm
- Camera (optional)
- Trekking poles, if you like to use them for hiking (optional)
- Binoculars (optional)
- Field Notebook notes and sketches