NatureBridge Olympic Peninsula Elwha River Restoration Program

Basic Itinerary

Each day begins with breakfast in the dining hall, where students gather, pack their backpacks, and prepare for the day's adventures. The instructional day is spent on the trail in small learning groups led by professional NatureBridge educators. These sessions offer collaborative, hands-on scientific learning experiences that align with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and support students' social and emotional development. In the afternoon and early evening, students return to campus to relax and reflect, followed by a family-style dinner at the historic Rosemary Inn, where they share their trail stories. Evenings are filled with engaging programs such as night hikes, Native American storytelling, or discussions on current environmental issues, before students retire to their cabins.

Additional Information

The NatureBridge Olympic Peninsula Elwha River Restoration Program is designed to foster critical thinking, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for science. Students will participate in environmental science investigations, collecting and analyzing data to draw meaningful conclusions. This program also addresses social-emotional challenges, particularly for those experiencing their first multi-night trip. To ease any anxiety, parents will receive comprehensive information, and students will engage in pre-trip meetings to practice self-help strategies and problem-solving through scenario skits.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will immerse themselves in the natural world through exploration and scientific inquiry in the Olympic Peninsula's majestic landscapes. They will investigate old-growth forests, the Elwha River, and Lake Crescent, building physical endurance, meaningful relationships, and a connection to nature. The program emphasizes wellness and social-emotional learning (SEL), including appropriate participation, effective communication, interpersonal relationships, collaboration, self-awareness, flexibility, and planning. Students will apply their learning in real-world contexts, develop leadership skills, and engage in open-minded discussions about diverse histories and experiences.