Rogue River Preserve- Open Lands Day

Bundle up and start the new year with a peaceful visit to the beautiful Rogue River Preserve!

The preserve includes two miles of riverfront along the Rogue River, a large floodplain forest, and oak woodlands with meadows. It is only open to the public during special events, work parties, and youth education programs. So, come and take advantage of this special opportunity and explore the trails at your own pace, attend a guided hike, bring a picnic lunch or thermos of tea to enjoy by the river, or all three.

Waterproof shoes and warm layers are highly recommended.

To limit crowding on the trails, registration is free and required for hikes or self-guided exploration for the day. Guided hike participants are welcome to explore the property before or after their hike slot.

Self-Guided Explorations

Check out field guides, binoculars, and other gear from our lending library and chat with docents along the trail to learn as you explore. Alternatively, you can walk the trails at your own pace, take photos, go birding, draw, or relax on a bench. This is a wonderful opportunity for families.

 

10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - “Hey Bud”, Winter Plant Walk with Kristi Mergenthaler

Learn how to identify plants during the winter using clues like buds, twigs, fruits, and stalks. We will explore the native plants of the floodplain forest while walking slowly. Bring a hand lens or borrow one from us and make sure to bundle up with extra warm layers.
 

1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. - Observational Drawing for Nature Journaling with Tara Laidlaw

Learn how to translate what you see in nature onto your page with a series of simple creative steps. We will take a short walk to draw inspiration and then sit for most of the time, so bundle up with extra warm layers and bring a camp chair, notebook, and pencil, or borrow materials from us. No drawing experience is required!