They interpret for others the interactions of the natural elements that give each place its unique character. By leading public hikes at over 60 locations around San Diego County's canyons, mountains, lagoons, regional parks, and deserts, Canyoneers help the community to appreciate the region's natural elements. Hikes are conducted on Fridays for school groups and on weekends for the public. Docents also receive training from Museum staff and other local experts on the flora, fauna, and geology of San Diego County. However, these volunteers use this information to conduct educational outreach programs and special presentations throughout the week to schools, seniors, scouts, and community groups with the aid of mounted and live specimens and audio-visuals.
Docents also guide in-museum tours.
Training for both the Canyoneer and Docent programs begins in mid-September. Training is free with the exception of a small fee for class materials and a membership requirement to the San Diego Natural History Museum. Applicants must be willing to make the time commitment necessary to complete the training. In return, successful candidates are expected to lead a minimum of 20 nature walks over a two-year period. Docent training classes are held every Wednesday, concluding in early March, 2001.