Harvest Days 2008 for Public and Private Schools

Chimney Rock Park specialists are planning a full day of learning and fun in our outdoor classroom for public and private schools. Program topics may include The Wonderful World of Reptiles, Appalachian Stories & Music, Hunters in the Sky and The Great Woodland Adventure. Here are sample program details. Due to limited space, pre-registration and pre-payment will be required in order to secure your space. For more questions, please contact Emily Walker, Education Coordinator, at 828-625-4039 or email education@chimneyrockpark.com. To register, call 800-277-9611 or email groups@chimneyrockpark.com
Dates & Programs TBD
Grades 1-5

The Wonderful World of Reptiles

Which snake eats other snakes? Have you ever held a turtle? Come and experience the wild world of reptiles in an up-close and personal setting. Students will learn the natural history and conservation of our scaly friends with the help of many live animals.

All year
Grades 1-8
45-60 minutes

Stealthy Snakes

Snakes are some of the most misunderstood animals in the world. Students will learn about venomous and non-venomous snakes in a safe and controlled environment. Many live animals will be used during the program.

All year
Grades 1-8
45-60 minutes

Shells and Tales

Turtles are some of the oldest animals in the world. Using live turtles, we will learn about their natural history, conservation and how to handle these amazing animals.

All year
Grades 1-8
30-45 minutes

Slippery Slimy Salamanders

Did you know that there is a two-foot long salamander living in the mountains called a Hellbender? Salamanders are amazing animals that help us keep an eye on the environment. We'll don our old shoes and head out to find and capture our prey while learning about their natural history.

May-September
Grades 1-8
45-90 minutes

Wild Edibles

There are many plants out on the trail that can be used for food and medicine. Students will graze along the trail learning how to distinguish safe plants from dangerous ones. A fun time and full belly are there for the taking.

April-October
Grades 1-6
30-50 minutes

A Need for Trees

Everyone forgets about the trees! This program shows why trees are important and how they help sustain life on Earth. Students will create a craft that helps them identify common trees of the Southern Appalachians.

May-October
Grades 1-8
30-60 minutes

Whoo Gives A Hoot

Some of the most mysterious animals in the world are owls. This program introduces students to common owls of the Carolinas. Through sight and sound, they'll learn to identify the most common three. Afterward, students will participate in a science project about owl diets.

All year
Grades 1-8
30-45 minutes

Threats and Thorns

All animals and plants have adaptations that help them survive in their environments. This class will focus on the adaptations that could be harmful to people. Students will learn why dangerous adaptations exist, how to identify them and what to do in case of an emergency.

All year
Grades 1-6
30-45 minutes

Skins & Skulls

Welcome to the wild world of mammals. Through the use of skulls and study skins, students will learn what characteristics mammals have and how to identify common mammals of the area. Bring your problem-solving skills to unlock many of their secrets.

All year
Grades 1-8
30-45 minutes

Signs, Signs; Everywhere a Sign

Many people don’t ever get to see bobcats and skunks, but they are common animals that are all around us. Learn how to identify animals by the signs they leave behind and a chance to create your own animal track guide to take home.

All year
Grades 1-8
30-45 minutes

Bug Off!

Did you know that all bugs are insects but not all insects are bugs? Uncover the science behind the riddle while learning all about insects. Students will arm themselves with nets and containers to collect insect samples to aid in learning about their natural history.

May-September
Grades 1-8
45-60 minutes

The Distinction of Extinction*

What animals roamed this area thousands of years ago? What animals are in danger of becoming extinct today? What can students do to help? These questions and more will be answered when the reality of extinction comes to life.

All year
Grades 1-8
45-60 minutes

Rock ’n' Time

Have you ever been inside a 500-million-year-old mountain? Did you know that rocks could bend? Chimney Rock Park is home to many amazing geological features. We will witness a growing waterfall, take a walk on an ancient fault line and search for gems and minerals in the rock as we take a 1-½ mile hike on our Skyline-Cliff Trail Loop. You’ll never look at rocks the same way again!

All year
Grades 1-8
60-90 minutes

Out and In-touch Hikes

Is your class studying birds? How about animals? We can lead a guided hike emphasizing a particular area of study. Our four trails range from moderate to strenuous and hikes can be tailored to meet your skill levels. Call 800-277-9611 for more information.

All year
All Ages
45 minutes-two hours

Appalachian Music & Stories

John Fowler has been sharing his stories and music with others for over twenty years. With old-time mountain instruments such as the banjo, fiddle, spoons, jaw harp, harmonica and banjo-uke, John will charm everyone with his tales. You and your students will be laughing and learning the whole time!

All year
All ages
45-60 minutes