The Upper Rio Grande Watershed in Taos County has a remarkable conservation legacy including nine wilderness areas and one of our nation’s first Wild and Scenic Rivers. It is crucial to develop local stewards who know first-hand and appreciate these treasures so that we can all care for them in the future. 

First presented in 2017, Students Explore Wilderness takes public school third graders on two-day adventures to explore and learn the values of wilderness and outdoor environmental ethics.

The first day is a gentle 4-mile round trip hike in the Columbine Hondo Wilderness along the Columbine Creek and the second is a 1.5-mile hike at Orilla Verde Recreation Area that takes students along the Rio Pueblo to its confluence with the Wild and Scenic Rio Grande.

From students:

“Thank you Rivers & Birds, I never really get out much. We don’t really have much time to hike at home. Thank you for letting us go on this trip.” - Ezekiel, Questa Schools.

“I got to see and experience lots of different wildlife in nature. I saw a woodpecker and this amazing waterfall. It was very beautiful. I really like this program, I think it’s perfect!” - Alaandria, Arroyos del Norte.