Nature Walk
10:00 am

Join a naturalist for a short walk on Museum grounds to learn about the diverse habitats that support an abundance of plants and animals in the High Desert region. Find out how humans can learn to coexist with wildlife habitats.

High Desert Ranger Station
10:00 am – 2:00 pm 

Explore a historic ranger station building while learning about the ecological role of wildfire in the forest and the history of the U.S. Forest Service. Weekends beginning May 24; daily beginning July 1

High Desert Fish Tales
10:30 am

Healthy populations of fish have sustained economies and ecosystems in the High Desert for thousands of years. Learn about the surprising diversity of native fish, their importance to our communities, and why we must work together to conserve and restore them to the landscape. At Cheney Pond gathering area, weather permitting.

Raptors of the Desert Sky
11:30 am 

Be awed by the beauty and power of free-flying raptors during our outdoor program. Learn all about birds of prey as they soar overhead. It’s a 15-minute walk from the Admissions desk. Weather permitting. Tickets must be purchased from Admissions by 11:00 am. Learn more.

Otter Encounter
12:30 pm

Explore the role these charismatic animals play in riparian ecosystems of the High Desert and how changes in water use effects their habitats. Where are otters found? What do they eat? How are they an indicator of a healthy river community? At the Autzen Otter Exhibit

Wolves in the West
1:30 pm

At one time the entire High Desert was habitat for the gray wolf. Exterminated in the 1900s, the apex predator is now staging a comeback. Learn about the biology of wolves, their role in natural ecosystems and the challenges our communities are working to overcome as they return home.

Horses on the Range
2:00 pm

There are an estimated 65,000 free-roaming horses throughout the West. Where did they come from, how are they managed and what impact do they have on High Desert ecosystems?

Desert Dwellers
3:00 pm

We share the High Desert with an amazing diversity of Wildlife. Explore the adaptations that enable animals to thrive here and meet some of our wildlife neighbors up close!

High Desert Ranch
10:00 am – 3:00 pm 

Get hands-on with the past and experience interactive history. Explore how people lived and supported themselves in the High Desert. Jump in to lend a hand or ask about the many buildings and objects from various times.

Bird of Prey Encounter
4:00 pm 

Meet a nonreleasable raptor in the Museum’s care. Learn about the unique adaptations of different raptors, their role in the environment and what you can do to ensure their future on the landscape.