Catalog 2 Welcome Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog Contents 3

Overview and History...... 4 School Programs...... 5 Workshops...... 6 Mosses, Lichens and Liverworts...... 6 FAMILY WORKSHOP: Exploring Opal Creek...... 6 FAMILY WORKSHOP: Bugs & Blooms...... 7 Yoga in the Ancient Forest...... 7 ornwell C Adult Fly Fishing...... 8 ark M

: Ancient Grains in the Ancient Forest...... 8

photo FAMILY WORKSHOP: Fall Amphibians...... 9 Ancient Forest Mushrooms...... 9 Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center is located in the heart of the Opal Creek Wilderness and Scenic Recreation Area, a spectacular 35,000-acre wilderness Turning Over Stones: A Creative Writing Workshop...... 10 of ancient trees and pristine waters. At Opal Creek, you will walk among some of the largest and Wilderness Medicine Institute Courses...... 10 oldest stands of trees remaining in the Pacific Northwest. The plant biodiversity that still thrives Opal Creek Expeditions...... 12 in Opal Creek’s watersheds is a sampling of the forests that once blanketed all the Western . Opal Creek is the largest uncut watershed in western , and mere descriptions Beginning Backpack...... 12 fail to convey the impact of being in a place of such primordial importance. Opal Creek Ancient Berries and Backpacking...... 12 Forest Center can help you fully experience this gem. Peaks of Opal Creek...... 13 P Our base of operations is Jawbone Flats, a historic mining town that sits at the Treetops and Ridgelines of the Watershed...... 13 confluence of two mountain streams surrounded by dramatic ridgelines; in short, the ideal backdrop for serious relaxation. Sub-Alpine Lakes Backpack...... 14 P Our comfortable, streamside accommodations are well suited for large family gatherings Fly Fishing and Freshwater Ecology...... 14 or private, quiet weekends. Cooking & Camping in the Backcountry...... 15 P Our location eliminates the need for extensive travel, thus lessening the cost and Adult Backpack in the Opal Creek Wilderness...... 15 burden on the environment. We are located only 2 ½ hours from Portland and Eugene. Membership...... 16 P Jawbone Flats is “off the grid.” The electricity we use is produced through hydroelectric and solar power. Volunteer Opportunities...... 17 P Our wide variety of workshops range from moss & lichens to yoga retreats and family Facilities and Food...... 18 workshops. These educational and relaxing weekends offer something for everyone. Cabin Rentals...... 18 P Cabin rental fees fund our education programs, so each visit directly supports our OCAFC Staff and Board...... …………………..…20 mission of developing and implementing environmental education programming inspired Opal Creek Trails...... 21 by Opal Creek. Directions to Opal Creek...... 22 P Opal Creek Expeditions is back and in its third year. These 6-day adventures give 10-16 year olds an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in nature while learning the art of *The cost of all workshops and camps covers lodging and meals, beginning with backcountry camping. dinner the day of arrival and ending with lunch the day of departure. There is truly something for everyone at Opal Creek. The tall trees and crystal clear waters beckon with a promise to relax the busiest of minds. If you have experienced Opal Creek, you know what makes it special and worthy of many visits. If you have yet to experience Opal Creek, “Great mix of education, exploration and relaxation!” now is the time. You won’t be disappointed. — Workshop Participant ’10 4 history Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog education 5

Teachers: Bring your students out to Opal Creek for an unforgettable experience!

n addition to the wonderful workshops and summer programs we offer at Opal Creek, we also offer school year programs. Our programs serve 2nd — 12th grade students and all university levels and cost $55 per participant per night. Surrounding our education center Iis the largest remaining, intact, low-elevation, ancient forest ecosystem in Oregon’s Western Cascades. Students will be exposed to an astonishing diversity of plants, mushrooms, lichens, macro-invertebrates, amphibians and many other organisms. The living laboratory of the ancient forest provides an excellent context for the concepts the students are learning. Our remodeled solar-powered classroom is equipped with microscopes to allow students to closely examine the intricate details of the forest. Students will also have the opportunity to learn about sustainability through our onsite examples, including our hydropower system, solar panels, . A brief history – and composting facilities. Our teaching philosophy is based on hands-on, experiential learning, and our instructors he Opal Creek forest was first inhabited by Native Americans. Points and lithic scatters are trained in various field education techniques and hands-on teaching methodologies. We dating back at least 2,000 years have been found across the watershed. The site that is employ a professional teaching staff with natural science or education bachelor’s degrees now Jawbone Flats is believed to have been a summer camp for the Santiam Kalapuya and Wilderness First Responder certification. We work with each teacher to individually craft a Indians.T The Whetstone Mountain Trail, which climbs the canyon, is believed to have been a program that ties in with work the students have been doing in the classroom. frequent trade route for area tribes. Please contact our office at 503-892-2782 or email [email protected] to discuss In 1859, miners arrived in the valley and discovered gold, but little was ever found. The Jawbone opportunities for your class. Flats mining camp was built beginning in 1930 by “Grandpa” James P. Hewitt, whose daughter Dolores married a member of the Atiyeh family, forever changing the fate of Opal Creek for the The hands-on adventures and activities were perfect. better. “ ” — Ashbrook Independent School Parent In 1992, mining ceased and Shiny Rock Mining Company donated its land to the fledgling non- profit Friends of Opal Creek. The organization was established in 1989 by George Atiyeh to lead the effort to secure permanent protection of the Opal Creek ecosystem. This effort culminated in November 1996, with the establishment, through federal legislation, of the Opal Creek Wilderness and Scenic Recreation Area. Today the Opal Creek forest has received international attention and is enjoyed by over 50,000 visitors each year. In 2005, Friends of Opal Creek changed its name to Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center to represent the distinct education mission of the organization. Our work today is based upon our mission of promoting ancient forest stewardship, and we invite you to join us in being inspired by the beauty and importance of the ancient forest preserved at Opal Creek. 6 Workshops Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog workshops 7

Mosses, Lichens and Liverworts Family Workshop Family Workshop Yoga in the Ancient Forest of the Ancient Forest Exploring Opal Creek: An intro- Bugs & Blooms: Insects, July 14-17, 2011 duction to the Ancient Forest Wildflowers and Butterflies April 23-24, 2011 Cost: $350, includes meals & lodging Cost: $140, includes meals & lodging May 20-22, 2011 July 8-10, 2011 Come join some of the Northwest’s most Cost: $200 per adult, $100 per Cost: $200 per adult, $100 per Which forest dweller can turn rock into food? enthusiastic, nature-inspired yoga teachers for child 4-13: Free for kids ages 0-3. child 4-13: Free for kids ages 0-3. What plants store water for dry periods and this wellness-focused workshop set amidst the can create soil in the upper canopy of ancient includes meals & lodging includes meals & lodging natural beauty of Opal Creek! This weekend forests? Non-vascular plants such as mosses, will be a chance for participants to explore the The first in our series of three Family Bring the whole family out for a weekend joys of yoga practice while surrounded by a lichens, and liverworts are drawing increasing Workshops, this introductory course to the exploring the world of insects, wildflowers and attention for their importance as indicators of thriving old-growth forest. What better way to ancient forest of Opal Creek is sure to be a butterflies. We will search high and low for relax in the beauty and serenity of wilderness forest health, air quality and environmental fun-filled, exploratory and educational weekend insects and butterflies all the while learning integrity. From air quality indicators and natural than by strengthening our bodies and quieting for the whole family. Children and adults will about the beautiful and abundant wildflowers our minds through the practice of asana? We water filters to nesting material for birds and gain an understanding of the ecology of an old surrounding us. We will explore under rocks mammals, mosses, lichens, and liverworts will explore Vinyasa, Restorative, and Hatha growth forest, search for many of the critters and in the water for the many different species schools of yoga. All levels welcome. This are invaluable to Pacific Northwest forest in abundance at Opal Creek, and learn to of insects that live at Opal Creek. Learn about ecosystems. Past Opal Creek Ancient Forest workshop is very popular, and fills quickly, so identify common plants, trees and animals. The their unique life cycles and what they can tell reserve your space now. Center instructor and forest ecologist John forest becomes our laboratory for exploration us about our environment. We will follow the Villella returns for his favorite workshop of the and understanding the intricate relationships trails of butterflies to their favorite wildflowers, Instructors for the workshop are co-founders . Ali Jackiw and Ariel Singer, joined by co-creators . year, and will lead us on a journey through the between organisms and species in this old learn about wildflower diversity, and identify little known non-vascular plant kingdoms of the Tasha Danner and Monicka Koneski of The Bhaktishop . growth environment. We will also focus on the butterflies such as Swallowtails, Angelwings, www.thebhaktishop.com, one of Portland's best-loved Opal Creek wilderness. Opal Creek is home to unique cultural and conservation history of the Painted Ladies and others that pollinate yoga studios. hundreds of species, many of which are only Opal Creek Wilderness. All family workshops the flowers. This is the second in our series found in the ancient forests of the northwest. are kid focused and feature hands-on activities. of three family workshops. Join us for a kid This course is especially helpful for agency Bring the whole family out and enjoy a weekend friendly, hands-on weekend while relaxing at personnel who are conducting forest health at Opal Creek! Opal Creek. surveys throughout the state. *Sign up for all three of our family workshops and *Sign up for all three of our family workshops and receive a discounted price. $500 per adult, $200 per receive a discounted price. $500 per adult, $200 per child 4-13 years old. child 4-13 years old.

Please call 503.892.2782 or visit our website, www.opalcreek.org, to register online for workshops and summer expeditions. 8 Workshops Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog workshops 9 ornwell C ark M

: photo Adult Fly Fishing Workshop Ancient Grains in the Ancient Fall Family Amphibians Ancient Forest Mushroom August 26-28, 2011 Forest Workshop September 16-18, 2011 Workshops Cost: $225, includes meals & lodging September 9-11, 2011 Cost: $200 per adult, $100 per October 15-16, 2011. October 22-23, 2011 Cost: $200, includes meals & lodging child 4-13: Free for kids ages 0-3. Learn the basics of fly fishing in a three-day includes meals & lodging $160 per adult, includes meals intensive seminar in the ancient forest of Cost: Do you look forward to the food at Opal Creek & lodging Opal Creek. Guided by Jeffry Gottfried, of as much as the trees? Come experience the Opal Creek’s intact ancient forest and Educational Recreational Adventures, an wonderful world of the Jawbone kitchen and cool clean waters host the full diversity of The forest surrounding Opal Creek produces experienced fly fishing instructor, licensed relax in the Opal Creek wilderness. We will Northwest amphibians. From the Pacific a large diversity of mushrooms every fall. guide and naturalist, you will learn to flycast, explore ancient grains and seeds in the kitchen Giant Salamander, the largest terrestrial Join past Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center tie the basic knots, identify aquatic insects at Jawbone Flats while taking in the ancient amphibian in North America, to the genetically instructor and forest ecologist, John Villella, for and their life cycles, and select and tie the forest. You will come away with the skills to unique ancient tailed frog, this workshop will a weekend as we hike through the tall trees, proper fly. Put your new skills to immediate prepare and use quinoa, amaranth, spelt, examine the dozen amphibians that reside learning about the amazing world of mycology use as you fish for wild native rainbow trout in millet, salvia (chia), flax, and buckwheat (which in Opal Creek’s exceptional habitat. Join our that holds it all together. Look high and low the beautiful Little North Fork of the Santiam, is not a wheat but of the rhubarb family!) as instructors as we look deep into the clear pools amongst the trees of Opal Creek for the curious Battle Axe Creek, Opal Creek and Opal Lake. well as an understanding of the benefits these and under the downed logs for these elusive organisms that come in so many shapes and ERA supplies all the fly fishing gear necessary ancient natural foods offer. We will also learn critters. Tuition includes a copy of Opal Creek’s sizes and help the forest grow and decompose. for the seminar. In addition to standard western the basics of cultivating and using a sourdough self-published Field Guide to the Amphibians You will enjoy looking for mushrooms, learning fly fishing, participants will also gain skills and bread start and recipes to use this living of Opal Creek for use during the weekend and to identify common species, and discovering experience in tenkara, traditional Japanese fly organism. Participants will also receive the for all future amphibian investigation. All family their role in the environment. Throughout the fishing. If you want to make a quantum leap . often requested and long-awaited Opal Creek workshops are kid focused, feature hands-on day we will learn which species are edible and in your fly fishing skills, this is the program . Cookbook. Come have fun in the kitchen and activities, and are a great way to enjoy the collect what we find, tasting them later that for you. the wilderness! Opal Creek area as a family. Join us for our evening. We will also learn the best mushrooms final family workshop of the season! to beautifully dye cloth. Please bring a piece of *Sign up for all three of our family workshops and clothing or cloth to dye. receive a discounted price. $500 per adult, $200 per child 4-13 years old.

Please call 503.892.2782 or visit our website, www.opalcreek.org, to register online for workshops and summer expeditions. 10 Workshops Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog wilderness medicine institute courses 11

WILDERNESS MEDICINE INSTITUTE COURSES Opal Creek and WMI have teamed up to bring you three of the most highly regarded wilderness medicine courses in the industry — all taught in the heart of the ancient forest. Seasoned WMI instructors often refer to Opal Creek as one of the premiere places to teach and practice wilderness medicine. Opal Creek’s location offers a real backcountry setting for WMI’s courses. Our location gives participants a chance to learn new skills and brush-up on old ones in an environment similar to where Turning Over Stones: A Creative these skills are practiced. Writing Workshop with Amy Minato Get certified in the backcountry of the Opal Creek Wilderness and still have all the comforts October 29-30, 2011 of home. Our fully equipped cabins and lodge Cost: $150, includes meals & lodging are an ideal backdrop to this course, offering a warm and comfortable environment to sleep Just as we discover those zen-like salamanders and study. Our highly praised kitchen provides Opal Creek is the best the West Coast has to offer in an immersive hidden under logs and crawdads under rocks, all meals. “ looking below the surface of daily life reveals *Lodging and meals begin the evening before courses educational experience. The setting in the ancient forest is meaning. Come be inspired by what you find begin. unparalleled for scenario-based education. I request this course for as we turn over the stones of our lives beneath the joy of teaching there, knowing the great outcomes and interactions elder trees and beside effervescent Opal Creek. Visit WMI’s website for complete class descriptions at www.nols.edu/wmi that will naturally flow. — Mark Cornwell, Senior WMI Instructor Then practice ways to shape your findings . ” into effective writing. This workshop develops . organically with participant interest. Themes we may consider include loss, hope, change, love and spiritual quest. We will weave being Wilderness First Responder Wilderness Upgrade for Wilderness First Responder outdoors with readings, discussions and writing Recertification Medical Professionals November 4-13, 2011 in a fun, relaxed, supportive atmosphere. All April 29-May 1, 2011. writing levels welcome! June 22-26, 2011 Cost: $950, includes meals & lodging October 7-9, 2011 Amy Minato is author of Siesta Lane, a creative Cost: $850, includes meals & lodging This course is fast-paced and engaging. You'll nonfiction book by Skyhorse Press and The Wider Lens, Cost: $360, includes meals & lodging a poetry collection published in 2004 by Ice River This intense, hands-on course utilizes daily role spend half your time outside the classroom Press. Her poetry has been published in national and This three day scenario-based course is plays, case studies and practical scenarios. practicing hands-on skills in realistic scenarios. regional magazines and has been recognized with a designed as review and practice of evacuation Expect to spend plenty of time applying your The intensive 80-hour curriculum is nationally 2004 Oregon Literary Arts Fellowship and her prose recognized and supported by the Wilderness with a Walden Fellowship. She currently teaches writing and decision making guidelines. It also knowledge. This five-day course is ideal for workshops through Literary Arts, Community of Writers provides wilderness medicine practitioners with EMT's, nurses, physicians, certified athletic Medicine Institute's Medical Advisory Panel, and at conference centers. She and her family migrate current updates in the wilderness medicine trainers and other medical professionals. and is quickly becoming an industry standard between Portland and the Wallowa Mountains. www. field. for all outdoor professionals. amyminato.com

Please call 503.892.2782 or visit our website, www.opalcreek.org, to register online for workshops and summer expeditions. 12 expeditions Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog expeditions 13

Opal Creek Beginning Backpack Berries, Burns and Backpacking: Peaks of Opal Creek Treetops and Ridgelines of July 10-15, 2011 Fire Ecology of the Pacific July 24-29, 2011 the Watershed Ages: 10-12 Northwest Ages 12-16 July 31-August 5, 2011 July 17-22, 2011 Cost: $435, includes meals & lodging Cost: $435, includes meals & lodging Ages 12-16 Ages 12-16 Cost: $435, includes meals & lodging Our backcountry-experienced and WFR- Throw on your pack and head off on foot Cost: $435, includes meals & lodging certified staff will be the guides on this first in search of the best vistas west of the Circumnavigate the Opal Creek Wilderness for time backpacking adventure. Learn the basics Cascades. Watch the landscape change as we As the huckleberries ripen and the sun warms a unique perspective of this entirely protected to backcountry camping and backpacking while travel through deep canyons and over steep the lakes and creeks we will spend the week watershed. We will start at Opal Lake and hike hiking among the tall trees and rambling creeks ridges. Learn about the geologic processes hiking in the scenic and remote Bull of the along French Creek Ridge to Beachie Saddle. of an ancient forest. Learn safe wilderness that formed this chain of mountains, and Woods Wilderness. Along the way we will Spend the night blanketed under the starry travel skills, backcountry cooking, packing observe how time and the elements have explore some of the many sub-alpine lakes in sky, learning constellations and their stories. techniques, map and compass skills, and caused them to evolve. Develop backpacking the heart of the wilderness, learn about fire As we make our way around the watershed, practice wilderness medicine. We will have and outdoor skills as you hike under the ecology and the effects of fires on forests we will explore the ecosystem, investigating plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling canopy created by centuries-old trees. Swim through the hands-on exploration of a recent connections between the lush forest and the in the crystal clear waters of Opal Creek. The in a sub-alpine lake and search for newts on burn area. Then compare what we find with an pristine mountain streams. You will get to first two nights will be spent in Jawbone Flats, the lake's edge. Rest on each mountaintop unburned forest as well as 100-year-old burn, know the local flora and fauna as well as the preparing and learning basic skills around as you take in the spectacular view. You all within hiking distance of Jawbone Flats. rich conservation history as we dip into lakes camp. We will then head off to explore the can’t get to these stunning parts of the Opal We will also refine our backcountry cooking, and traverse steep ridges. We will learn safe Opal Creek watershed. Opal Creek will provide Creek ecosystem unless you carry your home map and compass and wilderness medicine wilderness travel skills, backcountry cooking, all food, and participants are responsible on your back. We will learn safe wilderness skills. Opal Creek will provide all food, and packing techniques, map and compass and for their own gear. A full gear list will be sent travel skills, backcountry cooking, packing participants are responsible for their own gear. wilderness medicine skills. Opal Creek Ancient upon registration. Join us on this fantastic techniques, map and compass and wilderness A full gear list will be sent upon registration. Forest Center will provide all of the food, and introduction to backpacking in one of the most medicine skills. Opal Creek Ancient Forest participants are responsible for their own gear. beautiful and pristine old growth forests in *This camp is geared towards students with previous Center will provide all of the food, and *This camp is geared towards students who have only Oregon! backpacking experience, though all levels are welcome. We will hike an average of 5-8 miles per day. participants are responsible for their own gear. a little backpacking experience, though all levels are *This camp is geared towards beginning backpackers *This camp is geared towards students who have only welcome. We will hike an average of 4-6 miles per day. and will hike an average of 4-5 miles on days not spent a little backpacking experience, though all levels are in Jawbone Flats. welcome. We will hike an average of 4-6 miles per day.

Please call 503.892.2782 or visit our website, www.opalcreek.org, to register online for workshops and summer expeditions. 14 expeditions Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog expeditions 15 ottfried G eff J

: photo Sub-Alpine Lakes Backpack: Fly Fishing and Cooking & Camping: Adult Backpack in the Exploring Bull of the Woods Freshwater Ecology Backpacking Basics Opal Creek Wilderness Wilderness August 14-19, 2011 August 21-26, 2011 September 2-5, 2011 August 7-12, 2011 Ages 10-15 Ages 12-16 Cost: $220, includes meals & lodging Ages 12-16 Cost: $485, includes meals & lodging Cost: $435, includes meals & lodging Have you wanted to explore the ancient Cost: $435, includes meals & lodging forests of Oregon more intimately, but don’t Educational Recreational Adventures (ERA) and If you enjoy hiking and camping and want to feel comfortable backpacking on your own? Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center have joined improve your backpacking skills this camp is Nestled in the valleys of Opal Creek and Bull Come alone or bring a friend and join our WFR forces to offer a week of quality fly fishing for you. Explore the Opal Creek Wilderness of the Woods Wilderness are many serene, certified staff to spend the last weekend of instruction and fishing for native rainbow trout as you practice and build confidence in your untouched sub-alpine lakes. Travel along summer away from the crowds, hiking in the in spectacular waters within an ancient forest. backpacking skills. Hike along creeks deep steep ridgelines for astonishing views of the remote reaches of the Opal Creek Wilderness. Join Jeff Gottfried and other ERA staff to learn in the valley, climb ridges with the reward of Cascades extending from Mt Hood to the Three We will camp along side crystal clear creeks, to rig a fly rod, tie knots, choose the right fly spectacular views of the Cascades mountains, Sisters as we make our way into the deep hike to a secluded sub-alpine lake, walk for the right conditions, identify aquatic insects and relax along side pristine sub-alpine valleys of the lakes. Learn about the forces that along ridge tops with spectacular views of and tie flies that represent them, read water lakes. We will learn about the local flora and shaped the lakes we will visit as we compare the Cascades and star-gaze without the glow and other fly fishing skills. Hike along and fauna — snacking on huckleberries along the each lake we dip into. We will swim in the of city lights. The amazing ecology of Pacific wade in the Little North Fork of the Santiam, way — while strengthening our backpacking lakes, testing water depth and temperature. Northwest forests and the conservation history Opal Creek, Battle Axe Creek and Opal Lake skills. Emphasis will be put on safe and From shore, test the sediment with your toes of the Opal Creek Wilderness will be a focus as we pursue, catch, photograph and release successful backpacking techniques, including: and observe the numerous species of insect, throughout the weekend. Much of Opal Creek wild trout. No fly fishing experience necessary. packing a backpack for an extended trip, amphibian, fish, bird, and plants that inhabit remains untouched, and the only way to see This program will be geared toward first time essential gear, how to prepare and plan these wetland refuges. We will learn safe it is by foot. Join us for a wonderful weekend fly fishers. If you want to learn to fly fish, this good-tasting and good-for-you meals all on a wilderness travel skills, backcountry cooking, getaway! packing techniques, map and compass and is the place for you. In addition to all the fly camp stove and safe food storage techniques. wilderness medicine skills. Opal Creek Ancient fishing and tying gear, Jeff will also be bringing We will also practice map and compass skills Participants will hit the trail Friday afternoon Forest Center will provide all of the food, and bows, arrows, atlatls and targets just for and wilderness medicine. Opal Creek Ancient after backpacking preparation in Jawbone participants are responsible for their own gear. variety. Forest Center will provide all of the food, and is complete. OCAFC will provide all food participants are responsible for their own gear. and participants will need to provide all *This camp is geared towards students with previous backpacking experience, though all levels are *This camp is geared towards beginning backpackers backpacking gear. A detailed list will be sent welcome. We will hike an average of 5-8 miles per day. and will hike an average of 4-5 miles per day. upon registration.

Please call 503.892.2782 or visit our website, www.opalcreek.org, to register online for workshops and summer expeditions. 16 membership Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog volunteer 17

Become a Member Volunteer Weekends at Jawbone Flats Join us in ancient forest stewardship... May 14-15, 2011 November 5-6, 2011 Our Mission: Promoting ancient forest stewardship through educational experiences inspired by Opal Creek’s natural and cultural history. Join us at Opal Creek for a weekend of clearing trails and working on basic maintenance projects around our Jawbone Flats education center. Volunteer weekends require the ability to Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center’s mission is do hard, manual labor. Come prepared with appropriate clothes and gear. We will be working essential for the long-term health of the ancient outdoors rain or shine! Please call in advance to reserve your space for just $35.00 per person. forest and the preservation of its cultural This cost covers food and lodging for the weekend. resources. Join us in continuing this important work by becoming a member. In addition, we are sometimes looking for help in our Portland office with various projects. If you are interested in helping in this capacity, please contact our Portland office at 503-892-2782. Member Benefits Include: Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center is a small non-profit organization that relies on volunteers. We P 10% off select workshops and summer programs appreciate all the time our volunteers have donated over the many years, and realize we can’t do what we do without them! If you are interested in volunteering for Opal Creek, or have a skill you P First choice at cabin rental dates think would be helpful to our programs, please email us at [email protected]. P Mid-week rental discounts P A subscription to our newsletter To make a tax-deductible contribution, please see our website, http://www.opalcreek.org/. who-we-are/donate.aspx or call our Portland office at 503-892-2782. P $35 Individual membership: Support Opal Creek’s mission and enjoy the benefits of membership. P $50 Family membership: Entitles the whole family to member benefits. This can cover the cost of one student attending an overnight program at Jawbone Flats. P $100 Forest Steward: Could fund a day of professional instruction by our expert staff trained in experiential education. P $250 Forest Supporter: Can buy scientific equipment to let students study the ecosystem with tools and techniques used by professional researchers. P $500 Forest Benefactor: Can pay for meals and lodging for 20 volunteers involved in forest stewardship activities. P $1,000 Forest Patron: Could help a class of 20 students attend an overnight program at Jawbone Flats. A contribution at this level helps ensure our programs continue for years to come. P $5,000 Opal Pool Group: Your investment allows us to reach more students with life changing educational experiences. Your generosity sets the standard for commitment to Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center’s mission and programs.

“Definitely fueled my passion even more!” — Workshop Participant ’10 18 facilities Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog food 19

Facilities & Food

Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center bases it programs out of Jawbone Flats, our 1930’s historic mining town. Our center sits in the heart of the Cascades, at the confluence of two mountain streams, surrounded by 35,000 acres of wilderness. We have accommodations for groups from 2-50, in a variety of cabin styles: P Cabins 4 and 5: These are our newest cabins, beautifully rebuilt in 1998, and spectacular in their spaciousness and comfort. You'll find a back deck overlooking the Little North Santiam River, four large bedrooms, full kitchen, and two full baths with showers. These cabins sleep 16 people each. P Cabin 1: Our smallest and most charming cabin, built in 1928, is a rustic, one Pricing for Cabin Rentals bedroom cabin situated on Creek, with full view of Battle Ax Falls. This cabin These prices are for 2 people. Children 3 and under are free of charge, children 4-13 are sleeps two comfortably in a king size bed, with a futon in the living area to provide for $12.50 per night and each additional adult is $25 per night. There is a two-night minimum for extra sleeping room, and is equipped with a full bathroom, full kitchen and a deck with all cabins on weekends throughout the summer season. spectacular views. Season Month Cabin 1 Cabins 4, 5 & 7 P Cabin 7: A mid-size, rustic two-bedroom cabin with loft sleeps up to ten in a combination of shared and private bedrooms. This cabin was remodeled in 2006 Spring April - May $150 $175 adding many beautiful improvements. It has a living area, full kitchen and a full Summer June - September $175 $200 bathroom. Fall October - November $150 $175 Our cabins can be rented individually, without taking part in an education program. Meals Opal Creek strives to provide organic and local foods whenever possible. All meals are vegetarian and always hearty and healthy in nature. Due to the remote nature of Jawbone Flats, all meals must be arranged 2 weeks in advance. Breakfast: $12 per person Packed Lunch: $10 per person Sit Down Lunch: $15 per person Dinner: $18 per person Meals are free for kids 0-3, and half price for kids 4-13 year olds. Gear shuttle: Jawbone Flats is located 3.1 miles from where you leave your car. When you take part in our programs or rent a cabin, we provide a shuttle for your gear and for those in your party needing assistance. This allows you to enjoy the spectacular hike through the old growth with only a daypack. If a member in your party is unable to walk in please arrange to ride the shuttle in advance with our Portland office. Shuttles leave at 10am and 5pm. Once you have made your reservation with us, you will need to work with our Portland office to schedule a shuttle at one of these times. We encourage Great place, groups to send all of their gear in on the complementary shuttle. There is a $50 fee for each “great food, additional shuttle that is required. great staff.” Please call our Portland office at 503-892-2782 for more details. — Workshop Participant ’10 Thank you Holland Studios for the photographic contributions to this catalog. www.hollandstudios.com 20 staff & board Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog trails 21

Staff East Gold Creek Whetstone Whetstone Mtn. Trail Mtn.

Forest Gold Creek Silver King Mtn. Trail Executive Director Katie Ryan joined Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center in March Service Gate of 2005. She brings twelve years of experience organizing and leading field & Parking education programs throughout Oregon, Washington, California, the Yellowstone Little North Santiam River Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center region, and Canada. Before coming to Opal Creek, she was directing programs (Jawbone Flats Historic at OMSI’s Cascade Science School in Bend, OR. At home in the mountains, she Mining Camp) Battle Axe CreekBattle Axe Creek brings years of experience sharing wild places with students of all ages through- Trail out the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountains. Having spent three years living Battle Axe Creek full time at Jawbone Flats, Opal Creek has become one of her absolute favorite places to share. Opal Pool Opal Creek/ Katie worked as our Program Director building our ever growing programs from 2005-2009 and Kopetski Trail took over as Executive Director in October of 2009. She now lives in Bend, OR with her husband Joe and puppy Murphy. When not working for Opal Creek, she enjoys skiing and hiking. LEGEND Program Director Serena Becker returns for her second season with Opal Cedar Flats gravel road (foot access only) Beachie Creek Creek Ancient Forest Center. She brings with her years of experience as an rivers, creeks, pools Battle Axe Mtn. environmental educator and extensive backcountry backpacking experience, trails Opal Creek including the completion of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trial in 2008. She bridges previously worked with the Audubon Society of Portland and Santiam Crossing — Elk Lake MILEAGE Beachie Saddle a wilderness therapy program. She enjoys teaching youth and sharing with them Gate to Opal Creek Trail, 2 miles the wonders of Opal Creek. Serena holds a Bachelor of Arts from The Evergreen Gate to Jawbone Flats, 3.1 miles State College and is a certified Wilderness First Responder. Gate to Opal Pool, 3.5 miles Gate to Cedar Flats, 5 miles Opal Creek Mt Beechie Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center field instructors all have college degrees in natural sciences or More detailed maps are available in education. They are Wilderness First Responder certified and undergo extensive training in both the company store at Jawbone Flats. Opal Falls outdoor teaching methods and safety procedures. Opal Lake For a complete list of staff please visit our website at www.opalcreek.org Opal Creek Trails Board of Directors The gate to Jawbone Flats is an easy 6.25 mile round trip hike or bike ride along an old mining Nancy Bales Keith Hatch. road. The elevation gain is a minimal 300 feet but there is a lot to see! You will cross the Ecotrust Bureau of Indian Affairs emerald waters of Gold Creek on a 60 foot tall bridge originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930’s. Continuing up the Little North Santiam River Valley, you will pass 700 year Ted Helprin Thor Hinckley. old trees, Swiss designed half-bridges, and abandoned mines. Half way to Jawbone, you will find Ziba PGE Renewable Power Program yourself in the dense canopy of the Bertha E. Hewitt Memorial Grove. Two miles along the trail Heidi Hu Adam Lane. you will reach the Merten Mill, a steam-powered sawmill built in 1943. The operation closed in Private Investor Ecotrust 1945 after two company trucks fell off a steep area of the road and proved logging in the area too risky and unprofitable. No other commercial logging occurred within the Scenic Recreation Greg Meenahan Lizanne Saunders. Volunteers of America Retired Attorney Area. A short side trail from here leads to Cascada de los Ninos, a 30-foot falls that marks the end of the native winter steelhead run. At the bridge 2.2 miles in, you can either continue 1.1 Rick Schaeffer Liam Sherlock. miles up the road directly to Jawbone or you can follow the ups and downs of the Opal Creek Timber Resources Hutchinson, Cox, Coons, DuPriest, Orr & Sherlock, P.C. Trail to Opal Pool. Turn left across the creek and to Jawbone or continue another 1.8 miles to Sean Sullivan Dave Taylor. Cedar Flats. David Evans and Associates, Inc. David J. Taylor, CPA 22 maps Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center 2011 Catalog directions 23

PORTLAND How do I get to Opal Creek?

From I-5 North or South: Alternate Directions during P From I-5 take Exit 253 to Hwy 22 Summer Months Only: (Stayton/Detroit) P From Hwy 97 or 20 make your way to Hwy 22. P Continue on Hwy 22 for 22 miles (25 minutes) P Continue on Hwy 22 to Gate, OR (approx. 96 miles from Sisters, OR) P Turn Left (North) on to N. Fork Rd. Swiss P Turn Right (North) onto Gates Hill road, Village Restaurant will be on your right. across from the Gates General Store. SALEM P Follow N. Fork Rd. 14 miles to where the P Continue on Gates Hill road to N. Fork Rd pavement turns to gravel. You are now on (approx. 3 miles) SEE MAP BELOW Forest Service road 2209. P Turn Right onto N. Fork Rd. P After 1.5 miles you will come to a fork P Follow N. Fork Rd. to where the in the road. Stay Left on Forest Service pavement turns to gravel. You are now on road 2209. Forest Service road 2209. P Drive 4 more miles and you are at the P After 1.5 miles you will come to a fork Opal Creek trailhead! in the road. Stay Left on Forest Service road 2209. P Drive 4 more miles and you are at the From Bend, Hwy 97 or 20: Opal Creek trailhead! P From Hwy 97 or 20 make your way to Hwy 22. Please note: This alternate route saves roughly 30 minutes driving time from the P Continue on Hwy 22 to Gate, OR (approx. Bend area. However, Gates Hill Road is 96 miles from Sisters, OR) 16% grade both up and down, and is not P Continue 11 miles past Gates to N. Fork maintained in the winter. Please drive with EUGENE BEND Rd. extra caution when using this road. P Turn Right (North) on N. Fork Rd. Swiss Village Restaurant will be on your left. From the Parking Area/Trailhead: P Follow N. Fork Rd. 14 miles to where the P The Center is located 3.1 miles past the pavement turns to gravel. You are now on gate. It is a gentle hike on an old gravel Forest Service road 2209. road. P After 1.5 miles you will come to a fork P If you are staying with us you will need in the road. Stay Left on Forest Service to schedule a gear shuttle in advance. road 2209. Please call our office to arrange a Swiss Village P shuttle. Shuttles are available to pick up Restaurant Drive 4 more miles and you are at the Opal Creek trailhead! your gear at 10am and 5pm.

aps P All able-bodied people are asked to M make the short hike into Jawbone Flats.

oogle Shuttles are available for those guests

22 G 22 who are unable to hike in and must be

rtesy arranged with our office ahead of time. u o C Non Profit US Postage PAID Mailed from 98642 Permit No. 94 1220 SW Morrison Street, Suite 527 Portland, OR 97205

Phone: 503-892-2782 Fax: 503-227-2596 E-mail: [email protected] www.opalcreek.org

C Printed on recycled paper