Open Enrollment Mountain School: November 16-18, 2026

Bring your family to the North Cascades and experience the wonder of Mountain School—together.

Open Enrollment Mountain School is a 3-day, 2-night outdoor learning program designed for families, homeschool learners, and community members seeking a hands-on, place-based educational experience in nature. Rooted in the Institute’s acclaimed Mountain School model, this program invites families to learn and explore together while building connection to place and to one another.

Hosted at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center on the shores of Diablo Lake, the program offers comfortable lakeside lodging, freshly prepared meals, scenic trails, and welcoming gathering spaces that support discovery, learning and engagement.

Participants engage in hands-on explorations of forests, watersheds, wildlife, and ecosystems alongside experienced environmental educators. Drawing from core Mountain School curriculum—including topics like watersheds, wildfire, and natural history—learning is grounded in scientific observation, inquiry, and reflection. Through journaling, games, and creative activities, participants build understanding of the natural world while growing confidence, curiosity, and a sense of belonging outdoors.

Designed for youth ages 7–12 and their families, activities are adapted to support a range of ages and learning styles. Whether you’re part of a homeschooling community or simply looking for an immersive experience in nature, Open Enrollment Mountain School offers a meaningful opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together.

Program Highlights

• 3 days, 2 nights at the Environmental Learning Center on Diablo Lake
• Family-based learning—participants attend and engage together
• Designed for youth ages 7–12 (older siblings welcome; minimum age 7)
• Rooted in the Institute’s Mountain School curriculum and approach
• Topics include watersheds, wildfire, ecosystems, and natural history
• Emphasis on scientific inquiry, observation, and place-based learning
• Nature journaling, games, reflection, and creative activities
• Community-building and stewardship woven throughout
• Lodging, meals, and educational programming included