EVENING PROGRAMS

Astronomy - Participants develop a knowledge and an appreciation for the universe by observing the night sky through six, eight, and ten inch telescopes, while learning scientific concepts about light years, star cycles, cluster and nebulae types, and the formation of the galaxy and universe. Guest speakers from NASA & JPL often guide us through a scientific tour of the night sky. You may have an opportunity to analyze the spectroscopy of different chemicals to learn more about the science of astronomy.

Sensory Awareness Night Hike - Participants examine and tune into their senses that are often taken for granted. Vision, listening skills, and concentration are improved as we learn how to exercise and improve our nocturnal senses.  Naturalists will teach about the chemical processes that stimulate night vision in the retina.  Simple exersises will teach participants about directional hearing, scent perception, touch, and how to utilize their abilities to travel and stay safe at night.  

Solo Night Hikes - We often end the night hikes with short solos; participants travel down a trail,  using their nocturnal senses and knowledge as their guide.  One at a time, without a flashlight, they journey down a predetermined trail to reach a waiting staff member at the other end.  Later in the week we may offer extended solos for those interested.  These longer versions build confidence in participants as they use their senses and knowledge to navigate the darkness down longer and more challeging trails.  We highly recommend Solos for most clients.  

Nocturnal Wildlife Hike and Owl Calling - During this hike we learn about the nocturnal ecosystem. Participants have a chance to test and sharpen their own senses as we learn about the advantages and disadvantages of being active at night. Owls will be the focus, as we discuss hunting techniques, the food web, and nocturnal adaptations. The session ends with an attempt to call in a wild owl.

Talent Night Campfire - Here participants, staff, and faculty have a chance to show their stuff. WOLF provides a skit book of ideas for the novice. A variety of musical instruments may be on hand for student to join in the fun. Sing-a-longs, skits, legends and stories are presented at our outdoor amphitheater or inside the main lodge.

Free Choice Night - A variety of educational and adventure activities are available for participants to explore.  This program gives everyone a chance to discover more about their particular interest.  Drum Stalks, mondo night hike, super solo hikes, guide visualization, beach and stream sits, campfire music, and wind hikes are some of the all time favorites.

Drum Stalks - This unique activity has several levels that stimulate and challenge participants sensory awareness abilities.  Everyone may be blindfolded in a large field and follow the sound of the drum until they reach the drummer using their senses to guide them.  A more advanced version involves spreading participants around the camp or State park to spend some journal time. Then to the soft sound of a distant drum, they follow their senses through a magical discovery of the night.