Forest Ecology Hike with Art Zack,

Forest Ecology Hike with Art Zack 

Sun. May 15

This 5 mile hike will start at the Holman Road Trailhead, but carpool from Ponderosa Elementary (see below).  We will hike up Iller Creek to Big Rock, and then loop back down the east ridge.  We will observe how forest vegetation is shaped by the physical environment, and how forest plant communities and wildlife interact with both natural and human caused disturbances.  Iller Creek is known for its wide variety of forest types, including western hemlock forests (that are not only the farthest west anywhere in the Spokane area, but are actually farther west than shown on any range maps).

The hike will start at 10:00 AM and last 4 hours.  This hike involves about 1500 ft. of elevation gain; some of it moderately steep.  We will eat lunch at a viewpoint near Big Rock.  Bring lunch, water, and weather appropriate clothes.  

Parking is crowded at the trailhead, so we will meet and carpool from Ponderosa Elementary School.  Turn off Dishman Mica onto Shaffer Rd. In 1/2 mi., turn rt. at Cimmaron -go 1/4 mile to school. Meet there at 10 am. 

Editor note: I went on Art's hike last year and was fascinated by his extensive knowledge and user-friendly presentation of forest ecology.  I learned more than I ever thought I would from a field hike!