Looking for any other field trip topic or location? Please connect with us to learn more about our custom field trips.
Custom trips
How to schedule a field trip
- Reservation requests are open for scheduling by season:
- Fall field trips (Sept. 17 to Nov. 1) are accepted starting at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13. Please click here for available dates.
- Spring and summer field trips (March through August) are accepted in January.
- Fill out our reservation request form to hold a date or contact us at 503-220-2782 or at [email protected]. Please note, the form is not active until fall registration opens.
- The program fee for up to 35 participants is $50. For 36 to 70 participants the program fee is $100.
- If the fee is a hardship, you may request a program fee waiver.
- We can offer financial assistance for transportation to schools/organizations that qualify.
Oxbow Regional Park
With the Sandy River winding its way through the gorge and ancient forests crawling up the ridgeline, Oxbow Regional Park offers visitors unparalleled opportunities to learn about fish, wildlife and plants.
The return of the salmon
Fall: September to early November
Four hours including lunch
Participants will greet the wild fall Chinook salmon as they return to their place of birth on the Sandy River. An educator will guide your group through topics such as the salmon life cycle, the importance of watershed health, see the anatomy of salmon and examine real salmon eggs. Polarized viewing glasses are provided.
Hiking the ancient forest
Spring: April and May
Two hours, morning and afternoon sessions
An educator will guide participants among some of the oldest trees in our region. Participants will learn about the wildlife and ecology of an old-growth forest.
Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area
An urban wetland just outside north Portland’s neighborhoods, Smith and Bybee is home to fish, turtles, amphibians and birds.
Fall: September to October
Spring: April and May
Two hours, morning and afternoon sessions
Participants will learn about the wetland habitat and the plants and animals of Smith and Bybee. There will be a walk through the natural area, opportunities to do activities such as a “critter catch” of aquatic insects and learning how these small animals make an interconnected food chain.
Scouters Mountain Nature Park
Rising over the southeast corner of the greater-Portland region, Scouters Mountain offers stunning views and trails filled with discoveries awaiting your group.
Fall: September to October
Spring: May
Two hours, morning and afternoon sessions
Delve into this extinct lava dome with an educator to learn about mushrooms, mosses and lichens, and various animal residents. While hiking the mountain’s trails participants will identify habitats, discuss life cycles and wildlife diversity. Participants will see why mammals, amphibians, birds and insects make this forest their home.