This situation provides many areas of ecotonal edge where these ecosystems merge, creating rich zones of diverse habitats and relationships. Streams, lakes, and marshes become laboratories for studying riparian and aquatic ecology. High points with good views provide opportunities to recognize the geologic patterns of landforms, and vantage points for observations and compass readings necessary for creating our topographic maps. Old camps, homestead sites, mines, and aboriginal sites are where we discuss the area's history. Students organize camping gear, clothing, etc. to bring on trek.
Students begin learning about each other and the llamas they lead along the trail.
Students' maps grow in detail and area covered. Choosing and breaking camps are lessons in no-trace camping techniques. Weather and climate observations become an integral part of the wilderness travel. Base camps provide opportunities for lessons in cross-country travel using a compass. With more miles trekked, a familiarity with the area develops which enables more subtle ecological relationships to come into focus.