https://www.bridletrails.org/home daily 1.0 2026-04-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/cbbd4d87-79c0-4bdd-9740-47de8dfa85a1/preservation+3.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/0ca24687-c36f-45db-b308-41615435813a/education+3.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/a62f5835-f376-445d-be94-6aac3c3b3ca5/community+3.jpg Home https://www.bridletrails.org/contact-btpf daily 0.75 2020-06-29 https://www.bridletrails.org/visit daily 0.75 2026-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1589567278656-GQUPLGE5UI11EN51WX0C/trail+ettiquette+constant+contact.JPG Visit https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1617147180326-TMTQ1JY0X5UA6H1T9PPR/B%26W_Trails_Map+March+2021.jpg Visit https://www.bridletrails.org/park-history daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591832996404-4SRDF71UJ09D1WS6CWSS/BTSP%2Bearth.jpg Park History - An Emerald From Above The square-mile of land (section) that now contains the park was part of the original land grant to Washington State in 1889, which was by law dedicated to be managed to support public schools. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591832919763-73D54M67F6RLY4B1KFRB/shape%2Bof%2Bpark.jpg Park History - Section 16 The original land grant was for Section 16 of Township 25 North and Range 5 East, in the terminology of the Public Land Survey. Section 16 was logged from the late 1800s until 1936 through leases of sections of the park or timber sales. About 160 acres of the total 640 acres granted to the state was sold to individuals, giving rise to the odd shape of the current park. Tract Page from the Washington Department of Natural Resources. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591837641335-Z3VORUXC9CLUWOYSZTOH/priorsettlement.JPG Park History - 1600 - 1932 In response to a request from local horseback riders who used the area, the Washington Commissioner of Public Lands set aside the area of the current park for park use in the early 1930s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591837776794-K0G6Y8PQFR0W1EN8HVDB/1925forward.JPG Park History - 1936 - 2006 State Parks began leasing the land for park use in 1962 from the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which manages the state trust lands, and eventually purchased the park from the Washington DNR. The final deeds were exchanged in 1992. In 2006, Lois Acheson deeded an additional 4.7 acres east of Section 16 to Washington State Parks, which now manages that land as part of Bridle Trails State Park. https://www.bridletrails.org/preservation daily 0.75 2026-03-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1590512751605-YD4HQ933TKLSPH2F7NIA/BTSP%2Bearth.jpg Preservation Bridle Trails State Park https://www.bridletrails.org/park-natural-history daily 0.75 2026-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1590962174852-U6F74YABDEGT050Y5KRS/forest%2Bnature%2Bwalk%2B-%2Bcc.jpg Natural History & Ecology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1590962596122-VHPII3HPV4P9MKNQEZ5M/jim%2Band%2Bgs.jpg Natural History & Ecology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1590962457095-GJBJACBVXQHGE1B5ZYDM/mountain%2Bbeaver.jpg Natural History & Ecology https://www.bridletrails.org/education daily 0.75 2026-03-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1590869594346-WV7ZEE5G79YOGYQOTMFE/npld2.jpg Education https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593228947701-EK2AQ567BYCZZLEUE9OJ/IMG_2357.jpg Education https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593229180219-LH2GZKMY6F50QS29BJ1X/IMG_5592%252BBTSP-hikers%252Bin%252Bsnow.jpg Education https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1590960455022-EB7MP1D6Q82PQDOKYZ1T/historypic.jpg Education https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593204502183-VJ9GXZCEYXQ6GNA93GN6/Coyote_portrait.jpg Education https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1632848550051-8JSK2K2V7HE0KDDFOSCJ/2020family.jpg Education https://www.bridletrails.org/community daily 0.75 2026-03-04 https://www.bridletrails.org/schools-and-scouts daily 0.75 2026-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591831348593-2XVAUVWDU1GKH59XM6DB/gsphoto.jpg Schools and Scouts - Scouts LOVE the Park Activities and adventures that support specific merit badge requirements while fostering an appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our forests and parks. Eco Scouts: Learner, Friend, Camper, Trekker, Explorer, and Advocate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591830891785-Q4A24SQG5S0Y1BP4J1MC/jim%2Band%2Bgs.jpg Schools and Scouts - Schools The Foundation has worked with local schools to develop classroom and field activities in the park and near schools that support specific grade level curricula. Students learn about the plants and animals that inhabit the park, or participate in games and other activities related to the ecology of the park and park stewardship. Contact us at schools@bridletrails.org. https://www.bridletrails.org/nature-walks daily 0.75 2026-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593295916216-96U4HX2VXS9A00Y8EKQ3/Vancouver%2Bground%2Bcone%2Bje.jpg Nature Walks https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593209363485-X6GO5X3BS5FBC6A8FJO8/Pileated%2BWoodpecker%2Bje.jpg Nature Walks https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1fff3126-763c-485a-b80d-e09d6d0d5658/chanterelle.JPG Nature Walks https://www.bridletrails.org/self-guided daily 0.75 2020-06-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591999614719-QW2YEXJQA1R38ZZTMTL9/Kiosk+layoutv2.jpg Self Guided https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593137214638-2FGYE8AQEZLYP6UZHID8/trilliumtrail.jpg Self Guided https://www.bridletrails.org/donate daily 0.75 2025-12-13 https://www.bridletrails.org/species daily 0.75 2020-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592525368597-UGGZBTRTDKMZT59FKWW9/dquirrel.jpg Species - Mammals of the Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592525963513-USSXP58E9MV7U5QLWFGE/Winter%2BWren%2Bfor%2Bweb.jpg Species - Birds of the Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592527020344-CMA59B1CWEA5Y5EW8R7J/indianplumb2.jpg Species - Plants of the Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592526043461-TJBM9H5IBX9HYG99U07T/Pacific%2BChorus%2BFrogs%2Bfor%2Bweb.jpg Species - Amphibians & Reptiles of the Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592526512218-OA2AJ6V2RNUJI7FSYFU6/helvella.jpg Species - Fungi of the Park https://www.bridletrails.org/natural-history-2 daily 0.75 2022-03-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592001410767-JGPQVISVCIXKP9TTXSGB/Forest+succession.PNG Natural History 2 - Patterns Patterns Ecosystems change over time. Forests in the Puget Sound region experience a cycle of development and regrowth called forest succession. Prior to settlement of the area by Europeans, the dominant coniferous forests in Puget Sound were primarily disturbed by large-scale wildfires every few hundred years, which typically killed trees over many thousands of acres at a time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592001560902-9U5IYDF67B5Q14TP41NU/burned+forest+G1740+for+web.jpg Natural History 2 - Regeneration After large forest fires typical of our region, there were often many biological legacies: some living and many dead trees, typically large in size. These legacies contributed substantially to biological diversity in the regenerating forest. Old-growth forest conditions typically develop in this region when a forest is from 200 to 500 or more years old. What defines old-growth forest conditions is not age, however, but ecological condition. As a forest regenerates, it goes through many stages during succession. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592001693253-V4VI3IPFI7URIU8TZBH0/Clearcuts+for+web.jpg Natural History 2 - Clear-Cut logging Industrial clear-cut logging produced a much different result from natural disturbances. Few living or dead trees typically remained. Even when areas were selectively logged and live trees were left, the residual trees often were burned up in the many slash fires that characterized logging operations in the early twentieth century. Such fires were typically caused by sparks from railroad engines. The resulting regenerating forests were relatively uniform, with trees of similar size and often a single species, typically Douglas-fir at lower elevations. Such tree plantations have been shown to be biologically poor when compared to naturally regenerated forests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592001803988-F5IOY22RYL5OQBBCAE9E/SpringboardLogging%2Bfor%2Bweb.jpg Natural History 2 - Logging in the Park Research into archival records indicates that the park was logged between 1898 and 1936. Fortunately, at least some of the park was selectively logged, leaving Douglas-firs now as large as 5 feet in diameter, 190 feet tall, and more than 300 years old. Most logging in the park was done with crosscut saws and axes, with the loggers standing on springboards supported in notches in the trees. Many stumps of the original Douglas-firs and Western Red Cedars can be found in the park today, and the springboard notches are visible on many. Comparison of 1936 aerial photos of the park with a map of the current trail system reveals that most of the current trails evolved from temporary trails used to "skid" (remove) logs, as well as early roads and trails used for accessing the timber and other purposes. Photo credit: Seattle Public Utilities. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592001895707-RLVDYLZL28SSZGGTKMF1/Young%2Bforest%2Bfor%2Bweb.jpg Natural History 2 - Early Stages of Old Growth Forests For decades after initial colonization following a natural disturbance, the density of trees may be very high, with intense competition among trees. As the trees put on foliage, the high density results in a closed forest canopy, with little light reaching the forest floor, little vegetation on the forest floor, poor habitat for animals, and very low biological diversity overall. As the forest ages, it “self-thins” as a result of mortality from competition among trees for light, water, and nutrients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592001992043-JONU6LMHLUZD1XZM7L4M/Snag%2Bin%2Blight%2Bgap%2Bfor%2Bweb.jpg Natural History 2 - Middle Stages of Forest Development As a forest matures further and trees become less dense, the primary source of mortality of trees shifts from competition to disturbances, such as wind, insects, and diseases, or the combination of those agents. This is the beginning of the development of the important processes of disturbance and decadence that characterize old-growth forests, resulting in broken tops of trees, dead and decaying standing trees (snags) and logs, and gaps created by dead or fallen trees. The death of, or damage to, trees and the formation of forest gaps can be considered the “engines of biodiversity.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592002042378-WNSD28W03BK2CXKVYG7U/Old+growth+canopy+for+web.jpg Natural History 2 - Developing Old Growth Forest Canopy As the canopy opens and more light penetrates, the shade-tolerant species, such as western hemlock and western red cedar, start to grow faster, some eventually becoming part of the forest canopy. Thus, both large, old trees and variable tree density and sizes characterize old-growth forests. Also typical of old-growth forests is a high diversity of mosses, lichens, and other plants that grow as epiphytes on the surface of living trees and shrubs, and dead wood. This photo shows the development of epiphytes on 500-year-old old-growth forest near the Columbia River. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592002106874-RF7SM55N98U2AUQ4H0OM/Trail+in+BTSP+for+web.jpg Natural History 2 - Bridle Trails on Way to Old Growth The park is well on the way to developing into old-growth forest. Several severe windstorms in the last few decades have created many gaps and many snags and logs. The canopy is broken, and understory trees are starting to reach for the canopy. There is a lot of dead wood in many areas, and shrubs and herbaceous plants are present in areas with light penetration through openings in the canopy. There is also a considerable diversity of hardwood trees, such as Big Leaf Maple and Red Alder. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist daily 0.75 2022-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593294117298-B735RLQ9GGCIJ894AORM/Common%2BRaven%2BFlickr%2B%2528David%2BA%2BHofmann%2529.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Crow vs Raven https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1590965758564-JAU6ZVBQHY5IQCJXSMJ3/fir.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Bridle Trails Trees https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593206043536-761ARER6M7HKINY5D26D/American_Bushtit_6751vv.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Songbirds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592687808844-APPYHR25SIL6ISY2NZLD/lichen1.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Epiphytes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593149147969-A4MWP6J4IC1Y6QW0C9RT/chanterelle.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Fungi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593152384200-J5D9R4FN95UKS0YSMDOC/pileated3.JPG Naturalist Short Lessons - Woodpeckers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593111743291-JOSYOEI52BDB2BOD5R31/aflower.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Rare Plants https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593320348380-RXXV2UHN86ARHL8SIKQZ/Galahad.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Horses https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593148241270-DXWLJ7NZWOUCLA5K8LCJ/bslug2.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Decomposers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593308176016-PVTMNK6OV4EGGROGG8AG/Himalayan-Blackberry-Susan_Aldrich-Markham_-OSU.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Native and Invasive Plants https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593308150334-3TM0FIPPRH4RA27V8CMV/coyote%2Bin%2BYellowstone%2Bcropped%2Bje.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Predators https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1590965120475-1964JKZJX8DS7IDURBJ8/watershed.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Watersheds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593292353285-YGDPOWHQ42Q9SWEQU9HJ/Northern%2BPygmy%2BOwl%2BFlickr%2B%2528Ken-ichi%2BUeda%2529.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Owls https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593149304952-REQ6CEJOTY567GWPDK45/mbwiki.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Mountain Beavers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593293089266-GWMB3A1EF3BTQHCCEQEE/Western%2BSwallowtail%2Bje.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Pollinators https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593112021751-MUCPJNSMAUUG2QQMROI2/rsnewt.jpg Naturalist Short Lessons - Amphibians https://www.bridletrails.org/ed-npld daily 0.75 2026-02-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/5ac076e0-86fe-4a42-8e7c-bc03e1fea5c9/claireandmatt.jpg ED & NPLD - National Public Lands Day September Date TBA High School Service Hours Encouraged https://www.bridletrails.org/families2 daily 0.75 2026-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591023717647-37JH1GDCTMWBFOQVY9OF/jim%2Band%2Bgs.jpg Families2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591024504807-YE9MH5PGQU2TR2BWTJRG/kids%2Bon%2Btrail.jpg Families2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591141043526-4K97H546K9IK72FZPFIH/racoons.jpg Families2 https://www.bridletrails.org/activities daily 0.75 2020-09-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593152562071-S6ZJT9EE5OZRPRASIH89/horned.jpg Activities - Expanding Our Senses A short 5 minute activity to expand your senses and learn more about how some animals use their senses! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593184444000-FV66EA1IW44XGAAWL932/deer.jpg Activities - Find Your Fern Friend How much do you know about ferns? Test your identification skills with this 10-20 minute drawing activity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593357478383-24MFB9BXLDH0UOCVQI7Y/poetree.jpg Activities - Poetree Use your naturalist observation skills to write poems about your favorite plants and animals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591141823319-8QQZVGWNM3G5JNJTFKPX/journal.jpg Activities - Nature Journal Tips and tricks on how to create your own journal, with recommendations on how to become a naturalist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591124904632-MDVUB0EJMT0D3GZQN08P/meditation.jpg Activities - Walking Meditation Take as much time as you need to truly observe and reflect on what you see, hear, smell, and feel in the park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593184313911-RY8VUCSP460O039R3RLR/trill.jpg Activities - Trillium Trail Reflections Reflect on questions posed by interpretive signs as you walk the Trillium Trail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591143057588-EI1TPYD46AFHS0K4F9SI/sound2.jpg Activities - Sound Map Take 5 minutes to listen to the forest as you draw a sound map. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1594435620131-SADXDGNAYSB6JXW65FXH/snagmush.jpg Activities - Drawing Scavenger Hunt All Ages https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1591127579960-H32XP7G75FKYEQWIEO3F/red%2Bhucklberry.jpg Activities - Word Find Plants in the Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1594440284343-QQH4X0371SW74RSTFR6Z/ecottontail.jpg Activities - Word Find Mammals in the Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1594440326818-GEEFZLIHUITMONF5USF2/rcb.jpg Activities - Word Find Birds in the Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1594426975482-CKA8S1RJKJ8VIWSZEVAB/youngcrossword.jpg Activities - Crossword Young Naturalist https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1594427446121-YP3NLEHQXHGM15CEHMOB/cwnaturalist.jpg Activities - Crossword Bridle Trails Naturalist https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1594438978438-Q9U5GY3PEB340YO8D037/possum.jpg Activities - Coloring Page Food Chain https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1594437852420-8XUV6LH0ZRVYLDVNRWQ9/cedar4.jpg Activities - Coloring Page Trees in the Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1594440143359-PRLHZ7U912DUSXT0E2PK/ravenwiki.jpg Activities - Senses Scavenger Hunt All Ages https://www.bridletrails.org/fun-facts-mammals daily 0.75 2021-06-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592954204364-5YA18TXEGEAGUKF8ZFVR/Bobcat%2BWikimedia%2BCommons%2B%2528Linda%2BTanner%2529.jpg Fun Facts Mammals - BOBCAT One of our two large carnivores (with coyotes), bobcats are frequently seen in and around the park. The abundant rabbit population probably helps them survive. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592009095466-NCLJ6LT2R9ZVX0OYGXX8/mountainbeaverwebsite.jpg Fun Facts Mammals - MOUNTAIN BEAVER Mountain Beavers (not real beavers) are common. They excavate burrows with separate eating, bathroom, and sleeping areas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592955056688-C406D2C3PBFIM1M0N3ZD/Deer%2Bmouse%2BFlickr%2B%2528J%2BN%2BStuart%2529.jpg Fun Facts Mammals - DEER MOUSE This ubiquitous rodent is the base of the food chain for many predators, such as owls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592954412616-BQ53U7JC6ZFJ6WBII0H6/North%2BAmerican%2Bporucpine%2BWikimedia%2BCommons%2B%2528Arthur%2BChapman%2529.jpg Fun Facts Mammals - PORCUPINE Well defended with sharp quills, this large rodent strips bark off trees to get to the growing tissues underneath . It has been seen by a horseback riders at times. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592954876161-CMRYPP77AXM1CAI0QVSC/shrew%2Bmole%2BFlickr%2B%2528K%2BSchneider%2529.jpg Fun Facts Mammals - SHREW MOLE This tiny mole is more shrew-like, spending little time underground, it forages for insects and worms in leaf litter on the forest floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592955467821-6Z3CY8103ZUCJHA0WSYN/Northen%2Bflying%2Bsquirrel%2BKanisksu%2BLand%2BTrust.jpg Fun Facts Mammals - NORTHERN FLYING SQUIRREL The Northern Flying Squirrel is an odd squirrel. Not only does this nocturnal critter glide from tree to tree, but it eats mostly lichens and fungi. https://www.bridletrails.org/fun-facts-plants daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592074590713-EPA9F5KPFXXNRXO9BDS8/burdock2.jpg Fun Facts Plants - BURDOCK The inspiration for the invention of Velcro, introduced Burdock is a weed near the parking lot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592096493393-RODNCOJTULLL2HRZFXCY/himalayanblackberry1.jpg Fun Facts Plants - HIMALAYAN BLACKBERRY Introduced as a small fruit crop, this blackberry is now among our worst invasive plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592097069781-IZM1YLS5HV417KGMQWLG/oceanspray-flowering.jpg Fun Facts Plants - OCEAN SPRAY This lovely Shrub was called ironwood by Native Americans. The hard wood was used for bows, arrows, and digging sticks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592955936772-SP2HEEU7KTTPJDN1BHP9/Pacific%2Byew%2BNeedix.jpg Fun Facts Plants - PACIFIC YEW Once harvested commercially for Taxol, a drug used to fight cancer. Taxol is now manufactured. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592073166876-FIVQ0KKQ3QOXAL8SQL0T/coralroot.jpg Fun Facts Plants - MERTEN’S CORALROOT Having no chlorophyll or leaves, this plant get its nutrition from the roots of other plants via a fungus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592072984125-VSBCR9UVUD59QJJ8S7I4/SBlettuce.jpg Fun Facts Plants - SIBERIAN MINER’S LETTUCE One of the few plants in the park with leaves that are edible raw and used in salads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592073534357-UE4YJU4LT1OL4YFLVGYS/ogrape1.jpg Fun Facts Plants - OREGON GRAPE Used by Native Americans for berberine in the roots and stems, a bright yellow dye and an antibiotic and anti-fungal agent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592073840045-YI9O0JE46J8BO5K9WGOP/cedar.jpg Fun Facts Plants - WESTERN RED CEDAR A very important tree for Native Americans, who used the wood for longhouses and canoes, and the bark for clothing and baskets. https://www.bridletrails.org/fun-facts-birds daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592340443883-Z3816U55HJSJRGNWYSXT/Pileated%252BWoodpecker.jpg Fun Facts Birds - PILEATED WOODPECKER Our largest woodpecker in the park is called an Ecosystem Engineer. The holes it makes in dead trees are used by a wide variety of other animals, from flying squirrels to small owls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592949954499-A685O86PODN8MEJLFCEB/Barred%2BOwl%2BFlickr%2B%2528Bill%2BVanderMolen%2529.jpg Fun Facts Birds - BARRED OWL The owl that attacks people in the park and other areas of the U.S. It native to the US, but a recent invader to our area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592951034706-AO8EJTA22PVK4ZK8U27W/Brown%2BCreeper%2BFlickr%2B%2528Henry%2BT%2BMclin%2529.jpg Fun Facts Birds - BROWN CREEPER While nuthatches move down trees, creepers move up. They have stiff tail feathers like woodpeckers to help them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592951488404-PIB7MOBZRIJ3XHEFD0DD/Townsend%27s+warbler+Wikimedia+Commons+%28Slodocent%29.jpg Fun Facts Birds - TOWSEND’S WARBLER This lovely little migrant hangs out in the very tops of conifers, foraging for insects. Birders get a stiff neck looking for it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592950278233-3RMR13UJ60UXRGX2ZW9C/Rufous_Hummingbird%2BWikimedia%2BCommons%2B%2528V%2BJ%2BAnderson%2529.jpg Fun Facts Birds - RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD This tiny migrant arrives from the south in March, feeding on the nectar of salmonberry and red flowering currant flowers. Our other hummingbird, Anna’s, mostly uses yards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592950571094-HZC1L1RL985T0B01S7Y1/Bushtit%2BFlickr%2B%2528Tom%2BTalbot%2529.jpg Fun Facts Birds - BUSHTIT This tiny relative of chickadees makes a hanging nest. Birds in winter flocks huddle together when it is cold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592951208645-9M5NN8E7VF1E5DMWXFJM/Cooper%2527s%2BHawk%2Bje.jpg Fun Facts Birds - COOPER’S HAWK A bird specialist, juveniles of this species love to harass juvenile crows during the summer for practice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592951764728-KS0E2T3QA9WAZNDJJ3WQ/Red%2BCrossbill%2BFlickr%2B%2528Don%2BFaulkner%2529.jpg Fun Facts Birds - RED CROSSBILL This nomadic finch has crossed mandibles, a special adaptation to extract seeds from conifer cones. https://www.bridletrails.org/species-mammals daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://www.bridletrails.org/species-plants daily 0.75 2024-08-11 https://www.bridletrails.org/species-birds daily 0.75 2021-10-27 https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-bird-songs daily 0.75 2021-03-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592503258234-4QU9XMIHL931DDISJV5J/songbird.JPG Naturalist - Bird Songs https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593205669000-RQSXLQJNEA7U4ZRAIQDD/Dark-eyed_Junco_%2528Oregon%2529_%252826779373367%2529.jpg Naturalist - Bird Songs - Dark-eyed Junco One of the area’s most common songbird species in many neighborhoods, also in the park. In yards, they often nest in planters. Juveniles are streaky like many other sparrows, but all have white outer tail feathers conspicuous in flight. Year-round resident. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593734675796-ZQRR778SF9X577LI2G5S/bushtit%2Bwikimedia%2BVJAnderson.jpg Naturalist - Bird Songs - Bushtit Plain grey-brown and tiny, with no distinct song. Roost and feed close together in groups of 10-40 and have hanging nests. Year-round resident. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593735468072-X5AD1BG1HNIBWTU5WRCG/swainsonswiki.jpg Naturalist - Bird Songs - Swainson’s Thrush A migrant, arriving in May to nest in the park. Lovely upward-spiraling, flute-like song can be heard in the park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593734711033-LZEBOOF9Y28UU81MWCOD/chickadee%2Bwikimedia%2BKersti%2BNebelsiek..jpg Naturalist - Bird Songs - Black-Capped Chickadee Common in neighborhood yards and in the park. Nests in holes in trees (or bird houses) to protect the eggs and young. Most common call is the easy-to-hear “chickadee-dee-dee”. Year-round resident. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592944331980-9ZR989YKP8SZ74QVNG74/Song%2BSparrow%2Bje.jpg Naturalist - Bird Songs - Song Sparrow Common in neighborhood yards and often seen in the park, feeding in shrubs and on the ground for seeds and insects. Distinctive song “match, match, tea kettle kettle put it on.” Year-round resident. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593734750644-XB0K51AQ2NWKHYCTRMJM/Pacific_Wren_-_Vancouver_Is._%25286842161146%2529%2Bwikimedia%2BEleanor%2BBriccetti.jpg Naturalist - Bird Songs - Pacific Wren Small and mouse-like, hangs out in the forest understory looking for insects. The amazingly loud, long, and liquid song of this year-round resident bird is often heard in the spring in the park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593734815503-O6KYDPAGGDYM3E8H3ZHB/Western_Tanager_%25285658300604%2529%2Bwikimedia.jpg Naturalist - Bird Songs - Western Tanager Males are the most colorful birds in the park. Song like a hoarse American Robin and call a distinctive two-note “predict.” Migrants arrive in May. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-predators daily 0.75 2021-10-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592515312620-LVKJNSGM2JKL89DJ3YZG/predators.JPG Naturalist - Predators https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592515514812-Z1MHB66X6XBX7F3JTQQR/download.jpg Naturalist - Predators - What types of predator-prey relationships can you think of? What types of predator-prey relationships can you think of? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593732982119-WU215C9OVHYM9Q23YX4X/coyotowiki.jpg Naturalist - Predators - Listen to the sound of a coyote here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592516017125-ZOGJ7KE899GCSPQ2MR63/bobcat_1_1%2B%25281%2529.jpg Naturalist - Predators - Bobcats are not as vocal as coyotes. Listen to some sounds of a bobcat here and here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592522025276-GKBZXN4RVMBQNSVB0UYF/CanineFamilyPrints.jpg Naturalist - Predators - Coyote tracks will generally be forward facing with one lobe in the front of the pad and two in the back. Nails are not retractable and will therefore show on the track. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592522158580-MOAQU44BZLLHF5ZXRFSI/bobcat-track-vs-house-cat-43ecfb1e4c9c6e9f1ceb109761ef5f89.jpg Naturalist - Predators - Bobcat tracks will be more rounded in shape with two lobes in the front and three in the back, with no nail prints. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-crows-ravens daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592528301623-N2HGX9GZ4NAB87OQFBXW/crows.JPG Naturalist - Crows & Ravens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593205301964-Q08KRZJR8CZQOMLLH7HJ/American_Crow_%2528Corvus_brachyrhynchos%2529_-_Kitchener%252C_Ontario.jpg Naturalist - Crows & Ravens - American Crow Often seen in large groups or solo Tail is shaped like a fan Cawing sound “caw caw” Generally smaller than raven Considered predators and scavengers Able to live in wilderness and urban areas due to their adaptability Omnivores https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593205222245-CISMO513LY7ZKGY8XC38/raven2.jpg Naturalist - Crows & Ravens - Common Raven Often travel in pairs Tail is wedge/diamond shaped Lower croaking sound “kraa kraa” Larger – about the size of a red-tailed hawk Considered predators Uncommon in populated urban areas, found in wilderness Omnivores but more carnivorous https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-bridle-trails-trees daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592591941885-LKX6FVG1ZE1TX2O9E6I6/bridle+trails.JPG Naturalist - Bridle Trails Trees https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592591162109-9KRUF7PHSRXI53DJ10IM/treeschart.JPG Naturalist - Bridle Trails Trees https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592592468379-82H80XU8ODAZP8QWLGNQ/treepage.jpg Naturalist - Bridle Trails Trees https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592589618926-8KZC4Z5MQHZI7NDECZF3/VineMaple.jpg Naturalist - Bridle Trails Trees - Vine Maple Vine maples are small-leaved trees that grow in a sprawling fashion as they search for the sun in a shady forested area. These searching branches can then root themselves to create patches of vine maples. The leaves of trees in the open turn red in the fall. The wood is soft, can be trained to bend as it grows, and is used by many survivalists to make bows. Look for a vine arch over the Trillium trail! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592589671329-VPSPB5KM0RY7CSQZ0T64/BigleafMaple.jpg Naturalist - Bridle Trails Trees - Bigleaf Maple Bigleaf maples are the largest maple trees in our park and the surrounding area, and have the largest leaves of any maple - up to 2 feet in diameter. It grows along the coast at low elevations and has shallow roots that spread out. This hardwood tree can live for 300 years and grow up to 160 feet high! Many other species like to live with this maple and it will commonly have many types of moss, lichen, and licorice ferns growing from its bark. Bigleaf maple was also one of the best choices for Native American’s to use for paddles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592590000086-T32N1M2G2UNY6VN8RN5W/large.jpg Naturalist - Bridle Trails Trees - Red Alder Red alder is another common deciduous in our forest and the PNW. It has smooth bark and is often one of the first trees to pop up after a disturbance. This is helpful for a recovering forest because red alder has a mutualistic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria to enrich the soil for other plants. As a member of the birch family it rots quickly once it falls and is used as firewood. Native Americans used almost every part of the tree for different ailments and small tools. It is used widely for smoking salmon and basket making. Red alder can be spotted by its serrated leaves and long tassel-like catkins in the spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592590037544-Y9H3CHPL478QJCQ27W81/red-cedar.jpg Naturalist - Bridle Trails Trees - Western Red Cedar Cedar can be spotted easily in our park and many forests in the PNW. It has cinnamon-red, thin, shredded-looking bark with drooping branches, flat scale-like leaves, and exceedingly small cones. They can grow about 200 feet tall and up to 20 feet wide in circumference. Native Americans used red cedar for almost everything because it was easy to strip the bark and the wood is resistant to insects and mold, earning its title as “the cornerstone of northwest coast Indian culture” (usda.gov). Many recommend using red cedar for decks, boats, and outdoor furniture because of this resistance to rot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592589569585-VURNR6VQWTPDGVDJ1FZ5/WesternHemlock.jpg Naturalist - Bridle Trails Trees - Western Hemlock Our state tree, western hemlock grows tall and narrow with a slightly drooping top and down-sweeping branches. The needles are fine and feathery, growing in different directions like a “bad hair day.” It is known as the mother tree because of the thousands of seed cones it produces. It tolerates shade and is most likely to be found growing out of stumps and nurse logs in our park. The wood is fairly soft and can be worked easily so Native Americans used it to make spoons, combs, and other implements. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592589519992-UN8D0L9CQT6IK01TXEVU/dougfir.jpg Naturalist - Bridle Trails Trees - Douglas Fir Douglas fir is the dominant conifer in the park and in the Pacific Northwest. Many easily recognize it. It is not actually a true fir and its scientific name means “false hemlock.” They have long, flat, spirally arranged needles that grow completely around the branch and can grow for 1,000 years but are cut down before then (including in our park). It is the main character of a popular Native American children’s story about mice escaping a forest fire into the cones of the Douglas fir trees, creating cones that look like the hindquarters of mice are hanging out. This tree is commonly used for building and as Christmas trees, and is the primary commercial species grown in Washington. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-invasive-native-plants daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592597813431-Q0AOCU6BDDEK9FVRDB5D/nativeinvasive.JPG Naturalist - Invasive & Native Plants https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592598061585-P09TN5KAWZ8VLA8HVXF0/nativechart.JPG Naturalist - Invasive & Native Plants What types of predator-prey relationships can you think of? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592598509629-IANEE5FAYYIQ4JEDC05G/invasive1.JPG Naturalist - Invasive & Native Plants https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592598575109-4S2FEU7G50KOAT4ZBXEM/invasive2.JPG Naturalist - Invasive & Native Plants https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592772121366-GS9RFLG746S1IEZ72CKF/iplum.jpg Naturalist - Invasive & Native Plants - Indian Plum Indian plum is a native shrub that is abundant and obvious near the Bridle Trails parking lot, with dangling white blooms in early spring. The light green, lance-shaped leaves smell like watermelon rind or cucumber when crushed. While this plant does produce small fruits that look like plums and is edible to humans and animals, they are quite bitter. Because it blooms and produces leaves early, it can begin warm weather growth before the overstory trees and is an early season food source for pollinators. The roots hold the soil together well and grow quickly, so it is used in many restoration projects in the area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592598964102-UKIE86Z5JDRC5X8NSAGL/Salal.jpg Naturalist - Invasive & Native Plants - Salal Salal is a predominant native evergreen shrub that can be found in most coastal forests as understory year-round. It has dark, leathery, shiny, deeply veined leaves and produces dark purple berries in the summer. These berries were an important food source for Coast Salish Native Americans and while they are more astringent than other berries, they are great for jams and jellies.. This plant is a great opportunity for learning more about native and invasive plants because while it is native here in the Pacific Northwest, it is considered invasive in Europe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592598920392-Y4GQBGW9O0DMZQ2A117L/Yarrow.jpg Naturalist - Invasive & Native Plants - Yarrow Yarrow is a medicinal plant that grows low to the ground with feathery fern-like leaves and small tightly-packed clusters of flowers in summer. Native Americans used it for many things, including anti-inflammation/pain relieving tea and insect bite ointment. Yarrow is interesting because while it is native, it grows rapidly and is considered native, introduced, and invasive depending on where you are in the U.S. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-decomposers daily 0.75 2022-01-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592595589500-4ZMOW6WTPJCREDTGX59U/slugs.JPG Naturalist - Decomposers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1594084950966-B4L7H980L4SD5NY0COOE/Decomposersfinal.JPG Naturalist - Decomposers What types of predator-prey relationships can you think of? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592596351586-8T7YCW6BARM1S6TBDFWN/slugbody.JPG Naturalist - Decomposers - Since slugs don’t have shells like snails to protect them, they need to stay WET. They lose moisture through their mucus, which does 5 things: Provides a “carpet” for movement by working as a lubricant and adhesive Protects the foot from sharp materials Provides moist surface for oxygen to enter the body Makes it harder for predators to capture Can be toxic to some animals (makes human skin numb) https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-watersheds daily 0.75 2021-10-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592593979426-Y2ZD79D49Y9CD4BGTW1D/watersheds.JPG Naturalist - Watersheds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592594118417-HUQHRDTOGMJ84KECYMLL/watershed.jpg Naturalist - Watersheds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592594514228-NVO9V6MPTCUQGY0VQYCC/crwatershed.jpg Naturalist - Watersheds - Check out the King County Watershed Map. What watersheds do you live in? What pollution sources could be contaminating your watershed? https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-epiphytes daily 0.75 2021-10-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592685035785-LQ2SNEVK1S5BDV06MZE0/epiphytes.JPG Naturalist - Epiphytes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592686353908-5W0O3TUEB1ZEGRBJKE9K/licorice.jpg Naturalist - Epiphytes - Licorice Fern Ferns grow quickly and happily in the Pacific Northwest, and Bridle Trails State Park is home to 8 species. Licorice fern is a fern that is commonly found growing on bigleaf maples and red alders, as well as logs, rocks, and the ground. The rhizome (roots) of this evergreen fern taste like licorice and trails along the surface of trees or other surfaces, usually hidden under moss. Licorice ferns shrivel up during hot, dry weather, appearing dead, but sprout new green fronds with the fall rains. Licorice ferns were an important medicinal plant for many Native American tribes as well as old European cultures. The rhizomes were used as medicine against colds, coughs, and sore throats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592686175390-CPYDCD9IE3MI6C9R3API/moss.jpg Naturalist - Epiphytes - Epiphytes and Maple Trees Maple trees have been documented as having the greatest epiphyte to shoot biomass ratio of Pacific Northwest forests; meaning there is a high mass of epiphytes living on the branches and bark of maple trees (sometimes up to 80 pounds!). With this added surface area of branching mosses and ferns, maples are able to collect more rainwater and other nutrients from the air. Since mosses act like sponges, they also help each other stay moist during dry months. Research in the Pacific Northwest has revealed that bigleaf maples send roots into the epiphytes, taking in water and nutrients that way. Take a look on your next walk through the park for these moss-covered trees! https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-mountain-beavers daily 0.75 2022-11-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592780304344-YKEZNQX0A6R89PAOHXQ9/mb.JPG Naturalist - Mountain Beavers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592780392181-4BBM5LATH7EG7XZJF3CU/mb1.JPG Naturalist - Mountain Beavers - This archaic creature – that does not live in the mountains and is not a beaver– is a small endemic (not found in other areas of the world) rodent that lives in underground burrows along the west coast of America. While they are expert at digging, they can also climb and swim well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592780496039-B7K9KRJ5YYY53IHF3711/mb2.jpg Naturalist - Mountain Beavers - Mountain beavers are considered ‘living fossils’ because they have a simple bone structure that is quite similar to ancient relatives. They have continuously growing front teeth, like beavers, mice, etc. (although the same ancient relatives do not share this trait), but lack the complex jaw structure that other rodents have. Because of these unique characteristics, the mountain beaver is the only living member of its genus, Aplodontia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592780731940-97BW0GKMR3P39BVVQCKE/mb3.jpg Naturalist - Mountain Beavers - Aplodontia in Bridle Trails Since this animal is mostly nocturnal, they are rarely seen in the park and are more likely to be spotted in home gardens near the park. Their burrows are extensive and are often seen at the edge of trails in the park. The park ranger marks and fills these holes as they can be a danger for horses that step in them. These creatures are highly sensitive to climatic changes, which makes Bridle Trails the perfect habitat for them. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-mushrooms daily 0.75 2021-10-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593210311701-KH1GGQ2OVWEU14Y2HZNF/fungi.JPG Naturalist - Mushrooms https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592718686380-HD03GC2T7CBB11C26GHZ/treemush.jpg Naturalist - Mushrooms - Recent research has shown that this “Wood Wide Web” of mycelium connects plants in a forest, with the ability to not only transfer nutrients and water but also send messages such as insect attack warnings. They are prolific in the Pacific Northwest because of how moist our climate is – you can often find little groups of mushrooms pop up after a rain in the spring or fall. What types of predator-prey relationships can you think of? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592718865627-0M0C29GDWEBA6URPCC8M/treemush2.jpg Naturalist - Mushrooms - Types of Fungi Not all fungi are mushrooms that you can see and pick, but all fungi play a role in a forest ecosystem. Fungi are heterotrophs (do not make their own food), and digest food external to their bodies with secreted enzymes. There are three types of fungi in Bridle Trails State Park: decomposers, mycorrhizal species, and pathogens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592720477291-Q0SA6TLCSQNIXK0615RL/conk.jpg Naturalist - Mushrooms - Decomposers Most fungi act as decomposers, breaking down dead material and turning it into soil and nutrients for the forest. Common decomposers include several species that produce conks on dead trees, such as the common red-belted conk and artist’s conk. Conks are usually hard and inedible but can have important medical uses. There are other decomposers as well that constitute the FBI – fungus, bacteria, and invertebrates, like banana slugs! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592720525273-QQRXC4RIMYHKUXH66DNM/shroom1.jpg Naturalist - Mushrooms - Mycorrhizal fungi These are important to plants and form symbiotic relationships (pairings between plants or animals that are helpful for both parties) with these plants. In this relationship, plants provide sugar (energy) to the fungus, which in turn provides water and nutrients to the plant. Approximately 90% of vascular plants (those with vessels to transport water and nutrients) are reliant on mycorrhizal fungi. Some common mycorrhizal species are Amanitas, including the colorful A. muscaria – the mushroom in fairy tale illustrations. Another species of interest to foragers is the Pacific golden chanterelle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592720572476-AY07G05U4A0ONNOUECEB/shroom2.jpg Naturalist - Mushrooms - Pathogens Pathogens are categorized as causing disease and even death in humans and other organisms. An impactful pathogenic species in the park, which does not produce mushrooms, is the common laminated root rot, which kills Douglas fir and western hemlock, but not hardwoods or western red cedar. The canopy openings caused by this fungus add to habitat diversity by allowing sunlight to get through the canopy. Another well known pathogen is Dyer’s polypore (velvet-top fungus), a “butt-rot” that is an excellent natural source of green, yellow, gold, or brown dye. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592720737442-JCDS0VZ4I4OXF19YMVVR/shroom3.jpg Naturalist - Mushrooms - Mushrooms in the Park The Puget Sound Mycological Society is doing a long-term survey of species in the park because Bridle Trails is a good example of older, relatively undisturbed forest in the region. Volunteers have found many interesting and new species in the park! https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-amphibians daily 0.75 2022-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592781501126-WKT1TJ4B4WA8M1BTY0OQ/amph.JPG Naturalist - Amphibians https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592781707091-GOBOIJTF4H53U53BFAWU/amph2.JPG Naturalist - Amphibians https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592781811806-X6DV6BOYNPFO9DYO49WL/amph3.JPG Naturalist - Amphibians https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593138324197-2GZ3CEXYCNZNPPAMLKII/nwsalamander.jpg Naturalist - Amphibians - Northwestern Salamander Mildly poisonous, makes a ticking sound when disturbed. Some remain in water as adults. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593138453361-COGO1XPCV6OM4BTTOBPO/ltsalamander.jpg Naturalist - Amphibians - Long-toed Salamander If attacked, this salamander can drop its tail as a distraction (and is able to regrow it later). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593138536892-ZV7Z107NL9T69GWBFEF3/rsnewt.jpg Naturalist - Amphibians - Rough-skinned Newt When threatened, this newt will flip over to expose its orange belly. It is the most poisonous newt in Washington. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593746459352-9UOKCTHS0NKO8K4QSG2J/ensantina.jpg Naturalist - Amphibians - Ensatina Salamander Eggs are laid under logs instead of in water, and they skip the aquatic larvae stage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593146633986-OYXNXRHQ7FIHZB1DIIKE/wrb.jpg Naturalist - Amphibians - Western Red Backed Salamander Eggs are laid underground or under rocks and logs instead of in water, they also skip the aquatic larvae stage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593146927194-JN6JSV6FRKSMB8ZN3WA4/pcf.jpg Naturalist - Amphibians - Pacific Chorus Frog Can change color of skin as needed; common “ribbit” and chorus is loud and abundant during spring and summer evenings. This is the most common amphibian spotted in the park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593747429005-UII74J2RTR99MJFHD8AW/northernredleg.jpg Naturalist - Amphibians - Northern Red-legged Frog Very quiet voices and sometimes call underwater. https://www.bridletrails.org/fun-facts-mushrooms daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592956295330-7QZJRZGMZO1DS7V68KEK/Amanita%2Bgemmata%2Bje.jpg Fun Facts Mushrooms - AMANITA GEMMATA One of several lovely Amanitas in the park, all mycorrhizal species that help plants grow. All our species are toxic. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593296447855-ZK39KNF33YE73MA86CZH/rabbit%2Bears%2Bje.jpg Fun Facts Mushrooms - RABBIT EARS This oddball decomposer does look like rabbit ears. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592957326790-0JJFXRIRTL705CXCZ4Z4/Ganoderma_applanatum_Wikimedia+Commons+%28George+Chernilevsky%29.jpg Fun Facts Mushrooms - ARTIST’S CONK Conks are hard mushrooms growing on trees that decompose the wood. One can use a sharp object to draw on the white pore surface of this species. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592956828316-RMN01O4DDHIN3F3SHD5I/Russula+brevipes+je.JPG Fun Facts Mushrooms - SHORT-STEMMED RUSSULA Russulas, like Amanitas, are mycorrhizal fungi that help plants grow. This is the most common Russula in the park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592956180289-UG6011S2SQ5Z8I5LBEEI/Earthstar%2Bje.jpg Fun Facts Mushrooms - EARTHSTAR like a puffball set into a star, these decomposers are eye-catching. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592956708421-5IOPHR7SH617MU123784/Cantharellus%2Bformosus%2Bje.jpg Fun Facts Mushrooms - GOLDEN CHANTERELLE The most sought-after edible mushroom in the park, chanterelles do have a look-alike species (the false chanterelle). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592702071567-VDDRYRRXPH2UHV77ZBWE/jim.jpg Fun Facts Mushrooms - MYCENA PURA One of many Mycenas in the park, this tiny decomposer is one of the loveliest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592957032322-TVSJ663MNPJRH7W7CD9X/Laetiporus_sulphureus_Wikimedia%2BCommons%2B%2528Jo%2BHannes%2529.jpg Fun Facts Mushrooms - CHICKEN OF THE WOODS A shelf fungus, like the hard conks, this lovely species is soft and edible https://www.bridletrails.org/fun-facts-amphibians daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592952643622-4055QDPVWCESVZPI0RLH/Northern+red-legged+frog+Flickr+%28born1945%29.jpg Fun Facts Amphibians - NORTHERN RED-LEGGED FROG One of two frogs in the park, this one has a very quiet call that is given underwater, do is seldom heard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592953255455-R2MRKUW1LN1U3XFI3OI0/Redback%2Bsalamander%2BFlickr%2B%2528Andrew%2BDuBois%2529.jpg Fun Facts Amphibians - REDBACK SALAMANDER One of two fully terrestrial salamanders in the park, this critter does not have an aquatic phase. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592952260026-NKTD8LNTQ6W1HFA97U74/northwestern+salamander+je.JPG Fun Facts Amphibians - NORTHWESTERN SALAMANDER This salamander lays eggs in grapefruit-sized, gelatinous masses in the water. Some adults never leave water, while others move into the forest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592953039153-QQFE2O0G6ND3V8IEZZKD/Rough-skinned%2Bnewt%2BFlickr%2B%2528Seanin%2BOg.jpg Fun Facts Amphibians - ROUGH-SKINNED NEWT This salamander has has granular skin, unlike other native salamanders. Its skin is highly toxic, as a defense against predation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592952104559-FTVCWX9NIZZPA8YBTY2X/Pacific+Chorus+Frogs+je.jpg Fun Facts Amphibians - PACIFIC CHORUS FROG Our noisy frog in the park with its “ribbet” call in spring. Formerly called tree frog, it does climb trees, using the sticky pads on its toes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592953863808-H3OHUNSV9MOSBUHGTTP5/Long-toed%2Bsalamander%2BWikimedia%2BCommons%2B%2528Connor%2BLong%2529.jpg Fun Facts Amphibians - LONG-TOED SALAMANDER One of the most widespread salamanders in Washington, this species has an aquatic phase, but also lives in forests. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-pollinators daily 0.75 2021-10-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592777917003-IX8ZY01U4K0Y549MZRMD/pollinators.JPG Naturalist - Pollinators https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593730785034-256AKD9AXAJBP1LX42ZR/beesandbutterflies.JPG Naturalist - Pollinators - Western Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly and Yellow-faced Bumblebee https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593300852073-PIKCZJ81FSQLVE15L25R/Rufous+Hummingbird+male+%26+female+%28WC+-+VJ+anderson+%26+USFWS%29.jpg Naturalist - Pollinators - Male and female Rufous Hummingbirds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592778219642-2K0KOJ04INH128RT4O2I/pollinators3.JPG Naturalist - Pollinators - Salmonberry leaves, flower, and fruit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592778949888-M7MRUXGJJ5IJXZO0LY8W/humingbird.JPG Naturalist - Pollinators - Female Rufous Hummingbird at salmonberry flower. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-horses daily 0.75 2021-10-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592760734800-9ABJIDTHSAW9LUS9YSUX/horse.JPG Naturalist - Horses https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592762350900-UOP23BBA8KY0F9PCRTWA/skeleton.JPG Naturalist - Horses - Terminology Mare: mature female horse Stallion: mature male horse for breeding (stud) Gelding: mature male horse that cannot reproduce (castrated) Foals: young horses Filly: young female horse Colt: young male horse https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592761912050-XY2LGTDJ1EE907NO33VH/mud.JPG Naturalist - Horses - This is a print you may see while walking along the trails in the park. What types of predator-prey relationships can you think of? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593355841645-WYJVH64PBOLYVE287588/horse+page.JPG Naturalist - Horses https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-woodpeckers daily 0.75 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592774218121-6ABBM70WGSDI7KY81JK6/woodpeckers.JPG Naturalist - Woodpeckers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593736924986-A8UC7PEIVRIZXMGVOWAM/pileatedwiki.jpg Naturalist - Woodpeckers - Pileated Woodpecker The pileated woodpecker is often referred to as an “ecosystem engineer” or keystone species because its large, rectangular holes are used by so many other animals from small owls to flying squirrels. These characteristic holes can be found in dead trees where this woodpecker likes to search for carpenter ants. Its very loud calls can be heard throughout the park and in nearby neighborhoods. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592944784348-ZH11NB5RGOPS17B9FSAI/Hairy%2BWoodpecker%2BMick%2BThompsonEastside%2BAudubon.jpg Naturalist - Woodpeckers - Hairy Woodpecker The hairy woodpecker, which is associated mostly with conifer forests, has been found to rely on forest reserves such as Bridle Trails and is less likely to occur in developed areas. This woodpecker will work diligently at one spot on a tree, pulling bark and banging to excavate the hole. It will also eat some berries, seeds, nuts, sap, and can be found at suet bird feeders. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592948505859-B8BZNHD05QUCKZA09IH6/Downy_Woodpecker%2BWikimidia%2BCommons%2BBecky%2BMatusubara.jpg Naturalist - Woodpeckers - Downy Woodpecker The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest woodpecker in North America. While it looks quite similar to the hairy above, it is smaller – 6.5 inches to the hairy’s 9 inches, and is more willing to visit developed areas. They favor hardwood trees in Bridle Trails and also visit backyard feeders nearby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593737358281-3W6WLJGFW57GZGSN9KNI/nflicker-flickr.jpg Naturalist - Woodpeckers - Northern Flicker Our flickers are most common in neighborhoods outside the park (they prefer more open areas) and can be seen looking for food not only on trees but also on lawns. This species often drums loudly on metal on houses. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593737989763-5GCC8AKBK0TLZKB00ZSM/sap.jpg Naturalist - Woodpeckers - Red-breasted Sapsucker Sapsuckers used to regularly nest in the park, but numbers and sightings have declined in recent years, and they are rarely seen now. This woodpecker drills holes in hardwoods in horizontal rows to get at the sap and insects under the bark. The holes can sometimes kill a tree, creating a snag. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-owls daily 0.75 2022-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592713244424-4DTF2RL8BYNHFVMWBEFQ/owl2.JPG Naturalist - Owls https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593729750017-9L1CRJZPYM9VOGN7CM7J/bowiki.jpg Naturalist - Owls - Barred Owl The Barred Owl is the species most likely to be seen in daytime, and they occasionally swoop down to whack pedestrians on the head in the park and elsewhere. They nest in the park and in nearby neighborhoods and have a distinctive ‘who cooks for you’ hooting call. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593729486587-B7DSBMBCPSPCRX623VOM/wikipediacommons.jpg Naturalist - Owls - Great Horned Owl The Great Horned Owl is our largest species and is also common in the park. These owls are aggressive and large enough to catch and kill animals the size of skunks, hawks, and domestic cats, usually hunting at night. The deep hooting call is often heard at night by immediate neighbors to the park. https://www.bridletrails.org/naturalist-rare-plants daily 0.75 2020-07-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592784221569-Y8OELW7JTDUSLSFSZ1SX/rare.JPG Naturalist - Rare Plants https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592784924219-KYA2WXY79S2RF8VWIMZ8/coralroot.jpg Naturalist - Rare Plants - Merten’s Coralroot The uncommon Merten’s coralroot is a lovely orchid that is associated with fungi in the genus Russula. We often see this species blooming on nature walks in May and June. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593297433473-W2YABJPJ0BFZ6CJSBWZI/ground%2Bcone%2B-%2Byellow%2B2%2Bje.jpg Naturalist - Rare Plants - Vancouver Ground Cone The rare Vancouver ground cone is an odd mycoheterotroph associated with salal, a common shrub in the park, either as a direct root parasite or via a fungus. The flower of this plant can be yellow or red and blooms in May and June. When it first comes up it looks like a conifer cone stuck in the soil, hence its name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1592785637611-VR78E0F0HA2TRGZHITBN/ip.jpg Naturalist - Rare Plants - Indian Pipe The single-flowered Indian pipe is a ghostly white mycoheterotroph that comes up in June and July. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1593297643659-ZZVP4IBQCC5LUAVELJQQ/Pyrola_asarifolia-2%2Bje.jpg Naturalist - Rare Plants - Pink Wintergreen Pink wintergreen is what is called a facultative myco-heterotroph. Some individuals produce green leaves, and others do not. The form without leaves has been found in the park, and you can sometimes find the green form at local native plant sales. https://www.bridletrails.org/fall-2020-fungi-with-daniel-winkler daily 0.75 2020-12-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607470066824-GEM5KGWGNG816OXW3018/daniel%2B%2526%2Bjim.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Introduction to the Foundation’s Work with Daniel Overview of Puget Sound Mycological Society Survey in Bridle Trails State Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607485356546-6KHPUR8HZJXCORJG6LVB/IMG_6481%2BAmanita%2Bgemmata.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Mycorrhizal Species: Inocybe, Russula, Amanita & Laccaria https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607494002880-2VK5MAY15VTHPACRX6VX/IMG_2144%2BRussula.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Mycorrhizal Species: Lactarius, Russulas & Laccaria https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607485584766-QLHKWJNFQVVBNTRO4V1U/puff.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Decomposers: Lycoperdon, Hygrocybe & Helvella https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607533858498-YWZKZKXERKRLZVE5TU8T/Strobilurus_trullisatus_46769%2Bwiki%2Bcommons.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Wood Lovers: Xerompalina, Lucocorpinus, Strobilurus, Mycena & Dacrymyces https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607485318154-ABHY86M3JBULC3YNCCD8/Clitocybe-odora%2Bwiki%2Bcommons.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Anise Funnel Caps Includes Full Description of Puget Sound Mycological Society Survey in the Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607498021686-G1I87DQZB2S9IEC1N55I/IMG_2147%252BDouglas%252Bfir%252BSuillus.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Mycorrhizal Species: Douglas Fir Suillus & Gomphidius https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607490717470-UP4YERNUS4R49C9HQW7K/DSC_0981%252BGymnopus%252Bperonatus.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Invasives: Wood Wolly-Foot, Decomposers & Cup Fungus https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607490068056-XETW0R4B3LT2S6HUSV7T/DSC_6311%252BChlorophyllum%252Bolivieri.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Decomposers: Ink caps & Lepiota-like Species Shaggy Mane & Gray Shaggy Parasol https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1607490024892-OQJLJXX2BFY3T0TEJBJL/IMG_6806%2BPhaeolus%2Bschweinitzii.jpg Fungi with Daniel Winkler - Pathogens: Dyer's Polypore, Armillaria, Laminated Root Rot & Annosus https://www.bridletrails.org/all-about-equines daily 0.75 2025-09-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1618865042760-7CMNK6Q6WSGHIJR2ACNO/vet.jpg All About Equines - Introduction to Equine Care A veterinarian visits the barn: vitals, dental exams, and vaccinations https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1618861201823-JW7R4MWTIU7KWTDT5Y1D/ferrier.jpg All About Equines - Farrier & Horse Shoes New shoes for Eros: materials, equipment, and procedure https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1619455427776-9GTZ9I7W1OKOBEW50MUU/HeatherandZeusbanner4-21.jpg All About Equines - Dressage Natural movements, shoulders, beats, and the alphabet https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1620005478313-UVUWHDCSX89TCN6DAV5V/therapy+with+z+2.JPG All About Equines - Equine Facilitated Therapy Healing together with Z: boundaries, leadership, and yes - body paint https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1618861147801-OJ3GWJMOXQW50HHYBTSK/parkingvideo.jpg All About Equines - Safety Tips at Bridle Trails Parking with horse trailers, equestrian attire, yielding to horses in the park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1618859936827-IHJT6SA6H5BGQMT5BF41/lacy%2Bdriving.jpg All About Equines - Driving Ponies Meet Lacey and learn about the equine discipline of “driving” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1619536517755-0WWCEIH80H1AH7ZX2FA2/liberty4.png All About Equines - Liberty Training Connection and trust: Friendship between horses, and humans https://www.bridletrails.org/alice-prince daily 0.75 2022-01-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1641746251353-EVBPVWII0LDCN5S5R6AI/alice1.JPG Alice Prince https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1642039414677-DK0TJ2N4IG7YLXU96XCW/Alice+Prince+Bridle+Trails+-+Color-.jpg Alice Prince https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1642039708237-KBKV9AJUJ6ISC72UVNUY/alice%2Band%2Blibbey.jpg Alice Prince https://www.bridletrails.org/earth-day-2026 daily 0.75 2026-04-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/1faa781f-8dfc-48d5-a8cb-9bdb74395fee/Ivy+invasive+week.jfif EARTH DAY 2026 Celebrate the planet and this AMAZING park by joining us in our efforts to control invasive species in the park. Bring your work gloves and your favorite hand-held gardening tools (forks, trowels, hoes, etc.) to loosen roots. We’ll have some to share too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/0e725a40-2826-4f86-8072-93aac9c34622/23edwebsite1.png EARTH DAY 2026 - *A hold harmless waiver is required for ALL participants and must be signed by a parent or guardian if student is under 18 years of age. Adult Volunteer Registration HERE High School Service Hours Registration HERE Scouts Registration HERE *Please have parents register scouts separately. Event day guardian/chaperones required. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/746b2504-c948-4c55-a369-8d7b1870cacf/23edwebsite2.png EARTH DAY 2026 - Free Pizza Lunch after Work Party Please let us know if you’d like to join us for lunch and treats afterward (click the lunch box when you register). https://www.bridletrails.org/environmental-education-classroom-welcome-station daily 0.75 2025-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/e42ed556-70b9-4190-a8c4-ad03b548dd54/2025-07.12+EEC+South+Elevation+Rendering.jpg Environmental Education Classroom & Welcome Station https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/fcb4ce7b-01d2-4c17-b7f6-10634df294ed/2024-10.07+Bridle+Trails+Site+Plan_Page_3.jpg Environmental Education Classroom & Welcome Station - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e80c5853f16fb18d01d37e1/047f325a-4391-4d14-8ef8-8bd26f0a6d31/2024-10.07+Bridle+Trails+Site+Plan_Page_6.jpg Environmental Education Classroom & Welcome Station - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.