Education Programs and Tour Groups

Guided Tours for Schools and Large Groups
Museum educators, volunteers, student interns, and USDA Forest Service Interpreters are available with an advanced reservation to lead one of seven activities using exhibits to encourage student participation and critical thinking. Plan up to an hour to fully participate in the activities.

for more information, see Planning Your Visit for a Large Group

The Life and Times of Columbia River Salmon

Tour Details: Grades 4 - 6  45 minutes    Grades 7 - 12 60 minutes

Students will be introduced to the lifecycle of the Columbia River salmon and the types of salmon found in the Columbia River. Students will then be put into "schools" of salmon and sent down the river and back. As the "schools" brave the river, they will encounter many roadblocks and hazards. Not all of them will make it back to their spawning grounds. Students will learn what efforts are being taken to save the Columbia River salmon.

Animal Habitats in the Gorge

Tour Details: Grades K-4  45 minutes

Students will learn about the diversity of animals and plants of the Gorge.  Students will discover how each supports and contributes to the survival of the other.  Presentation will include "hands on" activities.

Skills of the Lewis and Clark Expedition

Tour Details: Grades 4 - 12  60 minutes

The Corps of Discovery succeeded in their mission because of their problem solving skills, individual strengths, and teamwork.  Students will train to become a member of the expedition by going through a series of skills stations.  As they master a skill, students will be certified.  The skills include map reading, fire starting, navigation, hunting, drawing and communicating with Native Americans.

Columbia Gorge: Forces of Nature

Tour Details: Grades 4 - 12  60 minutes

This program examines the intertwining of the geology, animals, weather, and plants of the Columbia Gorge. 

The Oregon Trail: Decision at The Dalles

Tour Details: Grades 4 - 12  60 minutes

Students role play an Oregon Trail wagon train and examine the "Decision at The Dalles" to gain an appreciation for how pioneers relied heavily upon planning, teamwork, and critical thinking skills during the Great Migration.

Early Inhabitants of the Columbia Gorge

Tour Details: Grades 4 - 12  60 minutes

Students will hunt for and gather knowledge about the lifeways of indigenous Columbia Gorge people.  Their hunt will take them to key areas in the museum exhibits and will require a variety of skills to gather all the information.

Raptor Discovery

Tour Details: Grades 4 - 12  60 minutes

Students will learn about the birds of prey that live in the Columbia Gorge. Live raptors are presented and students learn about the birds' characteristics and habitat. Offered in partnership with Rowena Wildlife Clinic. Also available via video conference and outreach.

Adopt-An-Acre

This is a fun outdoor experience that teaches habitat protection and restoration.  Students participate in identifying and eradicating invasive plant species and restoring native vegetation that promotes water and soil conservation on the Discovery Center grounds.  All tools and materials are provided.  Groups are trained and supervised by Discovery Center staff.  Activities include:
- Taking a census of invasive and native plants
- Removing self-reseeding invasive species to reduce fire fuel
- Establishment of native plants
- Watering of vulnerable seedlings