Wenatchee Outdoors

Plain Valley Ski Trails-Clinic for Skate Technique
2025-02-16 10:00 - 15:45 (America/Los_Angeles)
PVST Clinic for Skate Technique
Sunday, February 16th, 2025
Catered lunch at Mountain Springs Lodge
Cost: $180
This day clinic includes:

Catered lunch at Mountain Springs Lodge.
4 hours of group ski instruction for beginners to intermediates from 10am-noon, lunch 12-1pm, 1-3pm
Ski Waxing Clinic after the instruction.

What is NOT INCLUDED

Trail Pass- available at the trailhead with QR code, or 20% off Season Pass. You will get a code with your confirmation to receive your discount.
Ski Rentals. Both classic and skate ski packages are available at Plain Hardware, across the street from the ski trails in Plain. https://www.plainhardware.com/ski-rentals-trail-passes
If renting gear, please arrive at least 1 hour early to provide adequate time for appropriate sizing.
Ski Instructor gratuity.

Important Clinic Information

We will meet at 10am at the Meadow Loop Trailhead at the Welcome Kiosk on the Plain Valley Ski Trails https://www.skiplain.com/maps. Parking is free.
Schedule for the day may vary depending on skiers level and personal goals. Here is an example of what to expect:

Beginners:
10-10:30- Introductions, basic information regarding equipment, how to get up when you fall, and how to stop.
10:30-noon- Beginner progressions for classic or skate techniques.
12-1pm- LUNCH Mountain Springs Lodge
1-2pm- Learn techniques to climb and go down gradual hills.
2-3pm- Putting it all together and ski!
3:15-3:45- Wax Clinic
Intermediate:
10-10:15- Introductions, go over personal goals for the day.
10:15-Noon- Learn new drills to improve technique
12-1pm- LUNCH at Mountain Springs Lodge.
1-2pm- Climbing and descending hills, cornering, or focus on individual needs.
2-3pm- Free ski with instructors.
3:15-3:45- Wax Clinic

Please dress for the weather. Wear layers, a waterproof coat if it is snowing, or raining. WE HOLD CLINIC RAIN OR SNOW!
Yoga will be available on Sunday morning from 8:30-9:30. We need at least 3 people to register for this class. The cost will be $20 paid directly to the yoga instructor.

Lodging and Food Options
Mountain Springs (ski in/out lodging and lunch) https://www.mtsprings.com/
Thousand Trails (ski in/out lodging) https://thousandtrails.com/washington/leavenworth-rv-campground
Beaver Valley Lodge (across the street from ski trails) https://beavervalleylodge.com/
Squirrel Tree (Coles Corner-lodging and meals) https://www.thesquirreltree.com/
59er Diner (Coles Corner-lodging and meals) https://www.59erdiner.com/index.html
Old Mill Cafe (Plain, meals) https://www.oldmillcafeplain.com/
Headwaters Pub (lunch, dinner) headwaters-bar.edan.io
Wildflour (Kahler Glen, dinner) https://www.wildflourleavenworth.com/
Questions?
If you have any questions regarding the clinic please contact PVST Clinic Coordinator Terri Weiss, PVAW@SkiPlain.com or 206-795-1888.
Plain Valley Ski Trails Mission: Create and sustain a high-quality ski trail system that serves the community and funds barrier-free ski educational programs that motivate individual and team achievement.
Plain Valley Ski Trails is a community supported 501 (c)(3) non-profit public charity.
For more info about our programs, go to SkiPlain.com.

Restoring the Salish Sea: What's working? What's not? What you can do to help!-Online
2025-02-19 18:00 - 19:00
North Cascades Institute
When: Feb 19, 2025 from 6:00pm- 7:00pm
Where: Online
Instructor: Joe Gaydos
Class Tuition: $10.00

The Salish Sea is one of the world’s most magnificent inland seas. Shared by Washington State, British Columbia and dozens of independent Tribes and First Nations, this 17,000 square kilometer ecosystem holds wonders beyond imagination.
Some of the world’s greatest animals call this place home: the world’s largest oceanic predator, largest burying clam, largest octopus, largest chiton, tallest anemone, and so much more.
It shapes our local climate, puts food on our table, and is a billion-dollar driver of our regional economy.
Unfortunately, humans have been systematically altering this place for hundreds of years. Getting people to know and connect to the Salish Sea are critical first steps towards protecting it.
Come learn the secrets of this magical place. Be inspired and feel hopeful by hearing about local restoration success stories. And maybe most important, learn what you can do to be a part of taking care of one of the greatest places on earth!
For more information and registration Click Here

Plain Valley Ski Trails-Beginner Clinics
2025-02-22 10:00 - 12:00
Click Here for Winter Schedule Poster
PVST Weekend Cross Country Ski Clinic for either Classic or Skate Technique
Plain Valley Ski Trails Clinic Overview
The clinic is designed for beginners and will focus on either skate or classic. Skiers will work through progressive techniques, with the goal of independently skiing gentle terrain by the end of the clinic.
Clinic Includes

2 hours of ski instruction on Saturday (10 AM – 12 PM)

Clinic Prices

$90.00 Adult
$50.00 Child

Not Included

Trail Pass- $28/day or 20% off a 2024/25 PVST Seasons Pass. There will be a link in your confirmation email to purchase passes.
Ski Rentals: Both classic and skate ski packages are available at Plain Hardware, conveniently located across from the ski trails in Plain. Please Note: If you are renting gear, plan to arrive at least one hour early to allow time for proper sizing.

Important Clinic Information

Location: We will meet at 10:00 AM at the Meadow Loop Trailhead by the Welcome Hut on the Plain Valley Ski Trails. Parking is free.

Lodging and Food Options
Mountain Springs (ski in/out lodging and lunch) https://www.mtsprings.com/
Thousand Trails (ski in/out lodging) https://thousandtrails.com/washington/leavenworth-rv-campground
Beaver Valley Lodge (across the street from ski trails) https://beavervalleylodge.com/
Squirrel Tree (Coles Corner-lodging and meals) https://www.thesquirreltree.com/
59er Diner (Coles Corner-lodging and meals) https://www.59erdiner.com/index.html
Old Mill Cafe (Plain, meals) https://www.oldmillcafeplain.com/
Headwaters Pub (lunch, dinner) headwaters-bar.edan.io
Wildflour (Kahler Glen, dinner) https://www.wildflourleavenworth.com/
Plain Valley Ski Trails Mission: Create and sustain a high-quality ski trail system that serves the community and funds barrier-free ski educational programs that motivate individual and team achievement.
Plain Valley Ski Trails is a community supported 501 (c)(3) non-profit public charity.
For more info about our programs, go to SkiPlain.com.

Red Barn Event-Cottonwoods: Unlocking our Rivers' Histories
2025-02-24 19:00 - 20:00
Streaming link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAYduajgr7M
This is a partnered event with the Wenatchee Valley chapter of the Native Plant Society and the Pacific Northwest chapter of the Society of Wetland Scientists.
Doors open at 6:30pm for a community social with beer and wine available for purchase. The presentation will start at 7:00pm.
Join us for a presentation on Cottonwood (Populus species) which are common across North American floodplains and riparian ecosystems, including those of the Columbia River Basin and the watersheds of the North Central Cascades. Across the West, there are several species of cottonwood, all of which are riparian specialists that rely on the flowing water that rivers and streams provide to disperse their seeds, facilitate growth, and complete their life cycle. Cottonwood are often a dominant tree species in arid and semi-arid floodplains and build wildlife habitat through forest stands and shape fish habitat through their large wood that influences rivers and their floodplains. Here we’ll discuss how cottonwood evolved to be true river specialists, and what their presence, absence, and regeneration can tell us about a river’s history and diversity: its flow regime and the evolution of its channels across the watershed. Join us for a virtual fieldtrip through the rivers of North Central Washington as we unlock the natural history of rivers, as told by their floodplain cottonwood forests.
Nate Hough-Snee is a Leavenworth, Washington-based wetland and riparian ecologist who researches and restores aquatic ecosystems across the Pacific Northwest. He has a Ph.D. in Ecology from Utah State University’s Watershed Sciences Department. An environmental storyteller at heart, Nate currently spins environmental narratives of the Wenatchee and Entiat watersheds, Lake Chelan, and Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. Nate currently works with the Lake Chelan Research Institute as a senior scientist and conducts environmental research and policy work through his firm, Meadow Run Environmental. Recently Nate has focused his attention on environmental flows for rivers and streams, and how they affect various forest habitats. As a past president of the Society of Wetland Scientists’ Pacific Northwest Chapter, most of Nate’s ecosystem stories are told about rivers, plants, and people and with enough humor to have a good time.

Click here for more information.

CONTACT INFO
Joshua Schaub
jschaub@wenatcheeriverinstitute.org
509-548-0181, ext. 5

Astronomy Along the River
2025-02-26 20:30 - 22:00
Wenatchee River Institute presents
Join the Wenatchee Valley Astronomy Club on a family friendly journey through space. Using a variety of telescopes, we’ll gaze up into the Milky Way and learn about some of the best night sky objects to view. From the stunning rings of Saturn and planetary nebulas to large cataclysmic supernova remnants we’ll journey through our own galaxy and even take a look at neighboring ones.
During this program we’ll also explore the basics of telescope use, the different types of telescopes, and some helpful tricks to enhance your experience in star gazing.
Please dress for the cool evening weather as we will be outside the entire time. Be sure to leave the bright white lights at home. If flashlights are needed, please only use red lights. As there is no seating, please bring a blanket or chair.
Age Limit: 8+ years old
Ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration for this event is required. Limit 25 participants.
Cost is Pay What You Can
We offer the Pay What You Can model in recognition that paying for education programs looks different for different people. The options here are provided as suggestions, based on the costs to WRI to put on this program. If you want to attend this program, we want you to be there. Use the options below as a guideline upon registration. Please choose an amount that fits within your budget to attend this event, even if that is $0. We want anyone who is interested to be able to attend!
$10/person
This option may be for you if your budget is tight, but still really want to attend this program and support WRI.
$15/person
This option may be for you if you are excited to support WRI, and attending this program doesn’t put a strain on your weekly budget.
$20/person
This option may be for you if you are excited to attend this program and are able to pay a little extra so a neighbor can attend at a lower cost.

Click here for more information and to register.
CONTACT INFO
Joshua Schaub
jschaub@wenatcheeriverinstitute.org
509-548-0181, ext. 5

CDLT White River Snowshoe Tour
2025-03-01 08:00 - 15:30
❄️Join Chelan-Douglas Land Trust for a Snowshoe tour of the White River led by Elisa Lopez and Ayla Medina Ulloa. The trip leader will discuss the importance of this special area to forests, birds, mammals, salmon, and water resources. Stops on the tour will highlight conifer diversity, animal tracks, conservation projects, and the historical use of the land. We’ll have a chance to warm up at Tall Timber Ranch Lodge halfway through the day.
⛄Snowshoers should be able to walk over difficult terrain on snowshoes for 3 hours in winter weather. Snowshoes will be provided, although we encourage you to bring your own if you have some. Please specify when you register if you will need snowshoes.
Carpooling will be available. Please let us know in the comments below if you are interested.
Trip is limited to 16 people. This event is FREE and open to the public. Registration is required.
Please register HERE.
✨Questions? Contact Ayla, Community Inclusion Coordinator, at 509-667-9708 or ayla@cdlandtrust.org if you have questions.

Hands-On Rose Pruning Workshop!
2025-03-05 08:00 - 17:00
WSU Chelan-Douglas Master Gardeners
Learn the secrets to healthy, beautiful roses in this interactive pruning demonstration and workshop at the Community Education Garden (CEG)! Discover the proper techniques for pruning each type of rose, then put your knowledge into action by joining small group sessions to prune the roses yourself.
Date: March 29
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: 1100 Western Avenue, Wenatchee, WA
What to Bring: Attendees are encouraged to bring their own bypass hand pruners.
Spaces are limited to 25 participants, so reserve your spot today and take your rose care skills to the next level! ✂️
Don’t miss this opportunity to prune like a pro!

Link to register
WSU Chelan & Douglas homepage

Driving the Geologic Mysteries of the North Cascades-Online
2025-03-05 18:00 - 19:15
North Cascades Institute Presents
When: Mar 5, 2025 from 6:00pm- 7:15pm
Where: Online
Instructor: Gina Roberti
Class Tuition: $10.00
What makes driving State Route 20 through the North Cascades so spectacular? Why are the river canyons cut so deeply and the spires of mountains so jagged and sharp? What makes the rocks of the North Cascades so unique?
Join Gina Roberti on a virtual tour of the diverse geology to engage with stories of the landscape that transcend the human lifetime. Develop a new lens for interpreting the roadside geology and a deeper appreciation for the complex geologic stories written in the rocks.
This class will focus on the geology visible from several roadside pullouts along WA State Route 20 in North Cascades National Park.

For more information and registration Click Here

CDLT Art on the Trails
2025-03-06 16:00 - 17:00
Chelan-Douglas Land Trust Presents
The “Art in the Park” series is coming to our trails!
Join the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust and NCW Libraries for an opportunity to show your creative side outdoors.
Come learn about nature and our local trailheads to spark your creativity. Then, participate in creating a watercolor postcard at the Saddle Rock shelter. All materials will be provided; all you need to bring is yourself and your creativity.
This event is FREE and open to the public. All ages are welcome.
Did you know that you can take the bus to Saddle Rock? Use Link Transit Route 3 to get there! Service to Saddle Rock is “on call” for all trips. You need to call 509-664-7639 for the bus to pick you up.
Accessibility: The Land Trust is working to make all of our events as accessible as possible. Please let us know at least one week in advance if there is something we can do or provide to support you in participating in this outing to the fullest, and we will accommodate as possible.
Questions? Please contact Ayla, Community Inclusion Coordinator, at ayla@cdlandtrust.org or (509) 667-9708.
Registration is optional, but gives us a sense of how many people to expect (plus you get reminder emails).
For more information and to register please Click Here.

Ask a Master Gardener-Plant & Insect Clinic
2025-03-10 13:00 - 16:00
WSU Chelan-Douglas Master Gardener Presents Plant and Insect Clinic
The Ask a Master Gardener Plant Diagnosis Clinic is in full bloom this month! The 2025 season kicked off with the in-person clinic on February 24, and now the action continues with weekly sessionsevery Monday from 1 to 4 p.m. Join us in the Sagebrush Meeting Room at the Wenatchee Public Library to get expert advice and answers to your plant-related puzzles.

To contact the Plant Clinic click here

Tuesday Tune Up Series-Wheel and Tire Maintenance
2025-03-11 18:30 - 20:00 | Foothills Middle School, 1410 Maple St, Wenatchee, 98801, United States
Are you a current EMBA or Wenatchee Outdoors member? If so, you are eligible for our FREE Tuesday Tune-up Series. Over the course of four sessions, you’ll learn from an EMBA board member and ride instructor how to keep your bike in good riding shape. You’ll be guided through essential bike maintenance tips and tricks to ensure your ride is smooth and safe for the upcoming riding season. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, this series is designed to help you feel confident in maintaining your bike on and off the trail.
In these hands-on workshops, you’ll learn about how to fix and maintain your drivetrain, brakes, suspension, and wheels and tires. You’ll gain confidence and independence, so you can hit the trails with peace of mind, knowing you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Don’t miss out—you and your bike deserve it! Space is very limited but there will be a waitlist for the entire series or individual sessions.
* If you are not a current EMBA or Wenatchee Outdoors member donor but would like to participate, you can sign up for the series with the agreement that you become a member or renew your membership before participating.
* Since space is very limited, we ask that you not sign up if you do not plan on attending all four sessions.
Register Here
Questions? Email raybirks@evergreenmtb.org
Series Details

Drivetrain Maintenance – December 17th, 6:30-8:00pm, Foothills Middle School

Cassette and chainring cleaning, and replacemen
Chain cleaning, lubrication, and replacement
Derailleur/shifting adjustment and tuning

Brake Maintenance – January 14th, 6:30-8:00pm, Foothills Middle School

Brake pad inspection and replacement
Rotor cleaning and truing
Brake lever and cable adjustment
Hydraulic brake fluid lever bleed

Suspension Maintenance – February 11th, 6:30-8:00pm, Foothills Middle School

Fork and shock cleaning and lubrication
Air pressure adjustment
Rebound and compression damping adjustment
Suspension sag setup

Wheel and Tire Maintenance – March 11th, 6:30-8:00pm, Foothills Middle School

Tire pressure check and adjustment
Tubeless setup and maintenance
Rim and spoke inspection
Wheel truing
Tire tread inspection and replacement
Tube or tubeless tire repair
Trailside repairs

CDLT March Hike for Health
2025-03-15 09:00 - 11:00
Chelan-Douglas Land Trust Presents
Connecting with nature aids our physical, mental, and emotional health. Join Chelan Douglas Land Trust and Columbia Valley Community Health on a Hike for Health on Saturday, March 15th from 9:00am-11:00am at the Apple Capital Loop-Coyote Dunes
Arrive anytime between 9:00 am-11:00 am to walk the trails and receive a raffle ticket entry to win amazing health-focused prizes.
The guided walk will begin at 9:15 am and end at 11:00 am. During the guided walk, you will learn about the area’s plants, wildlife, and history. The event is open to all ages and will be in English and Spanish. You do not have to participate in the guided walk to receive a raffle ticket entry.
In March, we will explore part of the Apple Capital Loop area called Coyote Dunes. This walk will be about 2 miles total on a flat concrete path. Registration is not necessary to participate, but it is appreciated. Once you register, you will receive a confirmation email.
✨If you have any questions please contact Ayla Medina Ulloa, Community Inclusion Coordinator, at ayla@cdlandtrust.org or 509-667-9608
For more information Click Here

Grow Your Own Mushrooms Workshop
2025-03-15 12:00 - 14:00
Wenatchee River Institute Presents-Learn how to grow your own mushrooms on logs, in containers, and in garden beds at this interactive workshop.
Our instructor, Seth Beu, has years of experience growing mushrooms for restaurants with his business Primordia Farms. He’s spent countless hours hanging out with various fungi in the forests and instructing workshops just like this one. Seth will bring this knowledge, and knowledge gained form Dr. Elaine Ingham’s intensive Soil Food Web & Microscope course, to instructing you on growing your own edible mushrooms.
This course will cover several topics such as:
– 3 different ways to grow mushrooms from start to finish
– Integrating mushrooms into the garden space
– Different growing substrates and field capacity
– How to clone fungi you find in the forest
– How to pasteurize, sterilize, and avoid contamination
– How to make a blue oyster mushroom and/or winecap mushroom kit to take home
– What to do with your grow kit afterwards
All supplies will be provided. If you prefer, you can bring your own reusable container like a large, sterilized mason jar or lidded plastic container for your grow kit(s).
This event will take place inside the Red Barn, a heated building. There is a wheelchair accessible path and bathrooms onsite.

CONTACT INFO
Tiffa Theden
ttheden@wenatcheeriverinstitute.org
5095480181

Click here for more information and to register.

Red Barn Event- Exploring the Intricate Relationships of Plants and Pollinators
2025-03-18 19:00 - 20:00
Streaming link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxzU5Je-X3M&list=PLjATQxBXvvgXSiC_qr24e5jmPS-LyJ5T9&index=2
This is a partnered event with the Wenatchee Valley chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society.
Doors open at 6:30pm for a community social with beer and wine available for purchase. The presentation will start at 7:00pm.
Pollinator networks involve 88% of all flowering plants, at least a million insect species, about a thousand birds, hundreds of lizards and more than a hundred mammals. There are many ways that plants have evolved to attract specific pollinators to collect and carry pollen to another flower from the same species. Pollinators benefit by finding nectar and pollen more easily and, of all pollinators, bees are the most efficient. Lisa’s discussion will mention a few of the more extreme examples of pollinator-plant interactions and focus on connections between our Eastern Washington plants and pollinators.
About the Presenter:
Lisa Robinson is a Wenatchee Naturalist and native bee enthusiast. She began studying native bees with Dr. Don Rolfs then joined PNW groups such as Xerces’ Bumble Bee Atlas and the Oregon Bee Atlas. She is one of the founders and a board member of the Washington Native Bee Society and participates in the Washington Bee Atlas.
Click here for more information

CONTACT INFO
Joshua Schaub
jschaub@wenatcheeriverinstitute.org
509-548-0181, ext. 5

Finding their Way: How Birds Migrate- Online
2025-03-19 18:00 - 19:15
When: Mar 19, 2025 from 6:00pm- 7:15pm
Where: Online
Instructor: Gina Roberti
Class Tuition: $10.00
Bird migrations have fascinated humans since the beginning of time but what do we really know about the epic journeys of migrating birds? How do birds find their way? How do they navigate the many obstacles and challenges of migration? How do their tiny bodies endure and sustain these exhausting flights?
Perhaps most perplexing of all, how do baby birds migrate thousands of miles to the exact spot where they need to be with no prior experience?
We have come a long way in resolving many of these questions, and the answers will amaze you, not to mention deepen your understanding of where birds come from and go each spring and fall.
For more information and registration Click Here

Science on Tap with Johnna Eilers
2025-03-20 19:00 - 20:00
Wenatchee River Institute Presents-
This event is hosted at Ground Control in Wenatchee.
Come join Wenatchee River Institute for Science On Tap! This casual, free event is a great opportunity to gather, socialize, and learn about an exciting science topic from a member of our community. No prior science knowledge necessary! Speakers will give a talk on their latest research or a science topic they are passionate about, with some time afterwards for discussion or Q&A. Presentations start at 7pm – arrive early to grab a drink and get a seat!
Presentation: Wild Neighbors: Exploring the Wildlife of Chelan and Douglas Counties with a Local Wildlife Biologist
Description: Discover the incredible wildlife of Chelan and Douglas Counties with a local WDFW wildlife biologist, Johnna Eilers, as she presents on the deer, bighorn sheep, birds, and bats that call this area home. Learn about monitoring methods and field projects, including helicopter surveys, GPS tracking, bird nest peeper cameras, and bat acoustic monitoring. Johnna will also share the results from recent projects, wildlife habitat uses, and the conservation challenges these species face. This presentation provides a unique opportunity to understand how science is guiding efforts to conserve and manage our local wildlife.
Presenter: Johnna is the Assistant District Wildlife Biologist for Chelan and Douglas counties with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. In this role, she plays a key part in monitoring and managing local wildlife populations, ranging from mule deer and bighorn sheep, to birds, bats, small mammals, and even bumblebees. She moved to Wenatchee about 2.5 years ago and is loving the outdoor playground that surrounds us.
If you want to see more Science on Tap events, please consider donating at the link below. There will also be a donation basket at this event.

CONTACT INFO
Joshua Schaub
jschaub@wenatcheeriverinstitute.org
509-548-0181 ext. 5

Click here for more information.

CDLT Where it all Began
2025-03-22 10:00 - 12:00
Join the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust on this educational hike to learn about one of the first properties the CDLT helped protect: Peshastin Pinnacles. Special guest Mark Shipman and Eliot Scull, who played key roles in its protection, will share their personal stories and experiences along the way.
Thanks in part to the efforts of the CDLT, the Trust for Public Land, and our community, thousands of climbers and hikers are now able to enjoy recreation and scenic views of the Wenatchee River valley in this unique state park.
This is a challenging, 1.5-mile hike of steep and narrow trails with 500 feet of elevation gain. There are facilities at the trailhead (vault toilet, picnic tables).
Registration is encouraged but not required. When you register, you will receive a confirmation email with more details on what to bring. Carpool options are available. Please email me for more details.
✨If you have any questions, please contact Ayla Medina Ulloa, Community Inclusion Coordinator, at ayla@cdlandtrust.org or 509-667-9608.
For more information and to register Click Here.

Becoming A Better Photographer 4-Part Series
2025-03-25 18:30 - 20:00, 2025-04-22 18:30 - 20:00, 2025-05-20 18:30 - 20:00 | Foothills Middle School, 1410 Maple St, Wenatchee, 98801, United States
This is a WenOut MEMBER ONLY 4-part Educational Series. Become a member now.
Looking to level up your photography game?? We have an opportunity waiting for you to join a professional photographer and WenOut board member Thom Schroeder for a fun, hands-on series all about capturing the beauty of the outdoors.
Location: Foothills Middle School
Details: Photography is a lifelong journey, and the great news is that anyone can improve their craft. In this four-part series, we’ll explore the development of three essential skills while incorporating assignments to help you apply them in your own work. This might seem daunting, but it’s meant to be accessible. We’ll steer clear of overly technical discussions about cameras and software, as there are plenty of resources available for that. All you need for this series is a camera (even your phone works) and a willingness to improve. While bringing a laptop to share your work would be beneficial, it’s not a requirement.
Session One: Tuesday March 25 6:30-8:00

Observation (90 minutes, includes a take-home assignment) We’ll dive into the first skill of becoming a better photographer: the art of observation. This involves being aware of your surroundings and learning to anticipate light, timing, and movement to create captivating images.

Session Two: Tuesday April 22 6:30-8:00

Visualization (90 minutes, includes a take-home assignment) In this session, we’ll focus on visualization—imagining your final photograph before capturing it. This includes aspects of composition and post-processing, considering what to include or exclude from the frame, and how to edit to achieve your envisioned result.

Session Three: Tuesday May 20 6:30-8:00

Manipulation (90 minutes, includes a take-home assignment) Often referred to as post-processing, this session will explore editing techniques while revisiting the first two skills to understand how they all integrate.

Session Four: June 17 6:30-8:00

Critique (90 minutes) Feedback is invaluable in the learning process. In our final session, we’ll review the photographs we’ve created and discuss ways to continue refining these three skills as we strive to become better photographers.

About Thom Schroeder:
Thom is a professional photographer with experience shooting across the country and in our local area. He runs a media and creative agency, Woolley Creative, collaborating with clients both locally and nationally. Thom and his family relocated to Wenatchee in 2018.
Spaces is limited, please reserve your spots below. Come to as many as you would like, you will select the ones you can attend when you register. If spots fill up, we will have a waitlist.
Become a member
REGISTER HERE

Astronomy along the River
2025-03-26 20:30 - 22:00
Wenatchee River Institute Presents
Join the Wenatchee Valley Astronomy Club on a family friendly journey through space. Using a variety of telescopes, we’ll gaze up into the Milky Way and learn about some of the best night sky objects to view. From the stunning rings of Saturn and planetary nebulas to large cataclysmic supernova remnants we’ll journey through our own galaxy and even take a look at neighboring ones.
During this program we’ll also explore the basics of telescope use, the different types of telescopes, and some helpful tricks to enhance your experience in star gazing.
Please dress for the cool evening weather as we will be outside the entire time. Be sure to leave the bright white lights at home. If flashlights are needed, please only use red lights. As there is no seating, please bring a blanket or chair.
Age Limit: 8+ years old
Ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration for this event is required. Limit 25 participants.
Cost is Pay What You Can
We offer the Pay What You Can model in recognition that paying for education programs looks different for different people. The options here are provided as suggestions, based on the costs to WRI to put on this program. If you want to attend this program, we want you to be there. Use the options below as a guideline upon registration. Please choose an amount that fits within your budget to attend this event, even if that is $0. We want anyone who is interested to be able to attend!
$10/person
This option may be for you if your budget is tight, but still really want to attend this program and support WRI.
$15/person
This option may be for you if you are excited to support WRI, and attending this program doesn’t put a strain on your weekly budget.
$20/person
This option may be for you if you are excited to attend this program and are able to pay a little extra so a neighbor can attend at a lower cost.

Click Here for more information and to register

WRI Astro on the River
2025-03-27 20:30 - 22:00 | Wenatchee River Institute, 347 Division St, Leavenworth, WA, United States
About
Join WVAC members at Wenatchee Rover Institute near the Red Barn in Leavenworth. The WVAC team will talk about the different types of telescopes and how they work. We will have multiple telescopes out showing some of the seasons’ best and brightest celestial objects, connecting you to your natural heritage, the night sky. Bring your deepest cosmological questions!
This program is almost entirely telescope based.
This program may be held in the red barn if weather is inclement. Should this occur, we will show off the different types of telescopes and how beginners can get started in astronomy.
Program Rules

During the program, please avoid the use of white light, red lensed lights are allowed.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and possible wind; insect repellant may be necessary.

Location
We will all meet at the covered picnic shelter at WRI where introductions and general outline of the program. From there we will walk down to near Barn Beach for the event.
How to Sign Up
Space is limited to 35 people, so please register ahead of time to reserve your spot in the free program. Registration is required on the WRI website under events.
Cost
While the event is free, donations are gladly accepted. All donations go towards WRI and help continued community-based programming.

International Dark Sky Week
2025-04-21
This week is International Dark Sky Week. While this is not an event be sure to observe the week by enjoying the night sky. Remember to look up!
You can learn more at: https://idsw.darksky.org/

Hatchery Star Party
2025-04-27 21:30 - 22:30 | Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery(12790 Fish Hatchery Rd)
This is WVAC’s flagship event. This event is for the whole community; members and non-members; those just curious and advanced amateurs. No registration is required, come on out and show up.

Have a telescope but don’t know how to use it? or want some pointers? this is an opportunity to get to know your telescope.

No telescope? No problem! Astronomy is for sharing. Members will have red lanterns below their telescope. Come on up and see what we are looking at. Every member will have a different telescope and looking at something else. The secret password is “Whatchya Looking at?” This is a place for exploration of the curious and answering any questions you have from deep cosmic questions to what type of telescope you should get.

Have a telescope and know what your doing? Great! Come on out and meet our members. This is an event for astronomers of the community. This event allows all of us to connect to one another and to our cosmos.

Every person will be greeted by a WVAC member so new-comers know where to start and how the event works. Come on out and we can all enjoy the stars together in a comfortable environment.
Bathrooms will be made available on nights that USFWS staff is available in the main building.
Program Rules

During the program, please avoid the use of white light, red lensed lights are allowed. White lights are allowed for emergency use.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and possible wind; insect repellant may be necessary.

Location
We all will park at the USFWS Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery Parking Lot just outside of the gate. The gate will be half closed, but please do not drive beyond the gate.
The Telescope Area is just beyond the main building, about 50 yards from the parking lot. Walk beyond the gates and follow that main roadway straight until you see our red illuminated light sign board.
How to Sign Up
No registration is required. No need to sign up, just come on out and show up. Stay as long as you would like. But please arrive on time, so we can start introductions and explain how the event works.
Cost
While the event is free, donations are gladly accepted. All donations go to Friends of the Hatchery non-profit organization where they will use the proceeds to install a Sky Quality Meter to quantify light pollution growth.
Google Map Location Hyperlinks:
Parking Lot
Telescope Area

Exploring Hidden Worlds- Online Course
2025-04-30 18:00 - 19:15, 2025-05-07 18:00 - 19:15
North Cascade Institute presents Exploring Hidden Worlds: Frogs and Salamanders of the Puget Trough- Online
When: April 30 and May 7 from 6:00pm-7:15pm
Where: Online, anywhere you wish
Instructor: Stephen Nyman
Class Tuition: $18

The lowlands of the Puget Trough are home to more than two-thirds of all Washingtonians and an incredible diversity of amphibians, including 11 native species of frogs and salamanders, as well as a growing number of introduced species.
Among our native amphibians are cherished harbingers of spring, culturally significant yet often inconspicuous species, and members of ancient lineages that remain vital to the modern world.
Join Whatcom County Amphibian Monitoring Program biologist Stephen Nyman for a day of discovery as we explore the hidden world of amphibians in the region’s wetlands, ponds, streams, and forests.In the first session of this two-part virtual class, you’ll gain the knowledge and tools to identify all local amphibian species by their life stages, understand their habitats and lifestyles, and learn about the adaptations that support their success—and their vulnerabilities. The second session will dive deeper into fascinating topics, such as larval development, the remarkable process of metamorphosis, and the behaviors associated with feeding, predator avoidance, courtship, and competition. Through photos and videos, we’ll uncover the often-overlooked lives of these remarkable creatures.

Note: This is a 2-part online course. The first class is April 30 and the second class is May 7. Both are from 6 – 7:30 pm. When you register using this page you will be enrolled in both sessions. If you can’t make one or both in person we will send you a link to view on your own time!
For more information and to register click here

H2O & Grow: Kids Gardening Extravaganza
2025-05-05 10:00 - 12:00
WSU Chelan Douglas Master Gardeners presents; It’s all about kids and gardening!
Event Link

Spring Saunter
2025-05-10 10:00 - 12:00
Join the Wenatchee River Institute for a two-hour Spring Saunter with one of our knowledgeable naturalists. Walk with us through Waterfront Park as summer returns to the valley. You will learn about the natural and cultural history of Leavenworth with many scenic views along the way! What are plants and animals doing as everything wakes back up after winter?
Limit: 14 participants – Registration required
Difficulty: Beginner, up to two miles roundtrip. One short decline, then flat. Trails are packed dirt and gravel.
Accessibility: Not fully ADA accessible due to gravel trails
Cost – Pay What You Can:
We offer the Pay What You Can model in recognition that paying for education programs looks different for different people.
These price suggestions are based on the costs to WRI to put on this program. If you want to attend this program, we want you to be there.
$10/person
This option may be for you if you are excited to support WRI, and attending this program doesn’t put a strain on your weekly budget.
$5/person
This option may be for you if your budget is tight, but still really want to attend this program and support WRI.
$15/person
Additional donation option to add a little extra so others can attend at a lower cost.
Event Link

CONTACT INFO
Virginia Shoup
vshoup@wenatcheeriverinstitute.org
509-548-0181 ext 5

Hatchery Star party
2025-05-18 21:30 - 22:30 | Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery(12790 Fish Hatchery Rd)
This is WVAC’s flagship event. This event is for the whole community; members and non-members; those just curious and advanced amateurs. No registration is required, come on out and show up.

Have a telescope but don’t know how to use it? or want some pointers? this is an opportunity to get to know your telescope.

No telescope? No problem! Astronomy is for sharing. Members will have red lanterns below their telescope. Come on up and see what we are looking at. Every member will have a different telescope and looking at something else. The secret password is “Whatchya Looking at?” This is a place for exploration of the curious and answering any questions you have from deep cosmic questions to what type of telescope you should get.

Have a telescope and know what your doing? Great! Come on out and meet our members. This is an event for astronomers of the community. This event allows all of us to connect to one another and to our cosmos.

Every person will be greeted by a WVAC member so new-comers know where to start and how the event works. Come on out and we can all enjoy the stars together in a comfortable environment.
Bathrooms will be made available on nights that USFWS staff is available in the main building.
Program Rules

During the program, please avoid the use of white light, red lensed lights are allowed. White lights are allowed for emergency use.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and possible wind; insect repellant may be necessary.

Location
We all will park at the USFWS Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery Parking Lot just outside of the gate. The gate will be half closed, but please do not drive beyond the gate.
The Telescope Area is just beyond the main building, about 50 yards from the parking lot. Walk beyond the gates and follow that main roadway straight until you see our red illuminated light sign board.
How to Sign Up
No registration is required. No need to sign up, just come on out and show up. Stay as long as you would like. But please arrive on time, so we can start introductions and explain how the event works.
Cost
While the event is free, donations are gladly accepted. All donations go to Friends of the Hatchery non-profit organization where they will use the proceeds to install a Sky Quality Meter to quantify light pollution growth.
Google Map Location Hyperlinks:Parking Lot Telescope Area

Leavenworth Ski Hill Walk
2025-05-22 12:00 - 16:00
Who: Washington Native Plant Society-Wenatchee Valley Chapter
Leader: Connie McCauley
Difficulty Level: Moderate – approximately 900’ elevation gain and 6-7 miles
Limit: 15 per trip

Join Connie McCauley to explore the Ski Hill area, looking at spring wildflowers, trees and shrubs, especially those native to our area. This 4 hour walk will explore ski trails and mountain bike trails doing a loop up the New Uphill Trail to the Freund Canyon trail and back down 4 the Boys trail. Plant lists and plant identification handouts will be available.

Connie has explored these hills for 40 years and enjoys sharing her local knowledge will all ages and backgrounds. Meet at the Ski Hill parking lot on 10701 Ski Hill Drive in Leavenworth. Wear hiking boots, bring water and snacks, and dress in layers for the weather.A plant list titled “Leavenworth Ski Hill Area”, is available at https://www.wnps.org/plant-lists/county?Chelan.
RSVP by sending an email to Connie at ccmccauley@nwi.net.
