Winter Wildlife Walk in Vesper Meadow

Enjoy the serenity of the snow, and learn about the hidden worlds of winter at the Vesper Meadow Restoration Preserve in the Cascade hills. Just 30 minutes from Ashland, Oregon at 4,500’ elevation, we’ll explore mixed conifer forest, and the upland meadow habitats. To become more familiar with the local winter ecology, our hike will focus on mammal and bird tracking, making habitat observations, and reading the wider landscape for clues of the land-use history.

Difficulty: participants should be able to comfortably walk 1-2 miles in snow and spending a few hours in potentially cold weather. We will be going at a medium pace with periodic stops for looking at wildlife signs and tracks. Beginners and families welcome, recommended for ages 8+

Hike leader: Jeanine Moy, Director of Vesper Meadow Education Program will lead participants on this family friendly event.

Carpool: Information will be made available to registered participants only.

Bring:
– Sack lunch
– Water bottle
– Snow shoes or xc skis*, or if there is no/little snow wear boots that can get muddy, *snow shoes or xc skis may be rented from Get N Gear, the SOU Outdoor Program, or Mountain Provisions in Ashland.

Provided: Hot drinks and breakfast pastries will be provided at the start of the hike.

Space is limited and registration is required.