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Ecology & Nature Programs

You are invited to return to the forest and gardens of the Whidbey Institute to relax and restore.  After a year of the pandemic quarantine, we can turn to nature, draw in a deep breath, and take in the sights, sounds and smells of home. 

Let’s get outside together to restore, explore, and learn. Come by yourself, or bring a friend or your family. Are you looking for a meditative walk, a fun family hike, or a chance to learn about forest stewardship? We are creating hikes for you. 

Come sit in our gardens and get to know a variety of native and medicinal plants. Meet our garden stewards as they share what is growing. Reflect on this year past and what is emerging for you now. 

Want to help us care for 106 acres of forest and gardens? Bring your gloves and join us for volunteer events in the gardens or on the trails!

RSVP for one or more events below.


 

Frequently Asked Questions

Pets: Sorry no pets allowed on trails or in gardens.

Health Precautions: While we will be outdoors, we ask that people from different households stay 6 feet socially distanced and wear a mask.

Weather: Hikes and volunteer events will be held rain or shine! Dress for the weather. Non-volunteer, garden-based events will be rescheduled in the event of rain.

Terrain: The Legacy Forest trails are steeper at the beginning with most of the trails rolling to flat. The trails are not ADA accessible at this time.

What to bring: 

Hikes: Sturdy shoes, especially if the trails are wet. Sweater or jacket, as the forest temperatures are cooler. A water bottle is recommended.

Garden: You might consider a journal and pen to capture your reflections.

Volunteer: Sturdy shoes, especially if the trails are wet. Sweater or jacket, as the forest temperatures are cooler. A water bottle is recommended. Garden gloves will be provided and you are welcome to bring your own. All tools will be provided.

Parking: Park in lower parking lot (see on map) for all land-based programming unless otherwise instructed in the event description.