Session 1: July 20-26, 2025
Session II: August 10-16, 2025
Develop skills to read and interpret the landscapes of the Beartooths and northern Bighorn Basin, both past and present, in this week-long, intensive course. We will use biogeography, forest succession, and habitat to frame our knowledge of modern landscapes, and geology and deep time to interpret ancient ones. A unique feature of this Master Naturalist program is that we will visit active dinosaur excavations led by paleontologists and geologists of Elevation Science Institute. Through a combination of hiking, outdoor exploration, classroom instruction, and discussion, you will not only become a certified Montana Master Naturalist, but you will cultivate your curiosity in the wildlife and landscapes all around you and become a lifelong steward of Earth’s natural treasures.
What to Expect
Each day you will have a variety of instruction, typically kicking off with indoor instruction for a short period to familiarize everyone with the basics of the day before heading outdoors for hands-on lessons and excursions. After all, we’ll be in the most beautiful outdoor classroom the country has to offer! We’re going to take advantage of that! Expect to be outdoors for 6-8 hours per day.
Day 1: ARRIVAL, WELCOME, ORIENTATION, & INTRODUCTIONS
Day 2: CONIFERS, BIOGEOGRAPHY, FIRE ECOLOGY
Day 3: PLANTS & FLOWERS
Day 4: GEOLOGY & PALEONTOLOGY
Day 5: BIRDS
Day 6: INSECTS, MAMMALS, WRAP UP, & FINAL EXAM
Day 7: DEPARTURES
Equipment
Start here: Packing List
In addition, bring a magnifying glass or small field lens. Binoculars are recommended for spotting wildlife, as well as wildflower field guides, plant keys, and birding guides. A field notebook will be required for taking notes in the field.
Physical Requirements
Easy-Moderate. Hiking distance covers less than 3 miles per day, with less than 500 feet of elevation change.
Recommended Reading
Plants of the Rocky Mountains, by Linda Kershaw, Andy MacKinnon, and Jim Pojar
Rocky Mountain Natural History, by Daniel Mathews
The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Western America, by David Sibley
You can get these books anywhere, but Beartooth Books in Red Lodge can special order them for you and we can have them waiting when you arrive in camp!
Montana Teacher Professional Development Credits
Montana Teachers can earn OPI credits for becoming a Master Naturalist!
