Where: Soapstone Prairie - Approximately a one-hour drive from Fort Collins. More complete directions can be found at https://www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/finder/soapstone. When: May 21, 9:00a.m. - 2:00p.m., meet at Soapstone Prairie's south parking lot Accessibility: This program involves a 5-6 mile, moderate, off-trail hike through potentially wet conditions. Hiking poles highly suggested (there will be a few extra pair for those who don't have their own) Accessible parking and restrooms available. If you have any questions or concerns about the accessibility of a program, please contact [email protected] or call 970-416-2815 for more information. People with disabilities are welcome to participate in all programs and we are happy to make any appropriate accommodations. Requests for disability-related services can be made during registration through the activity contact or by calling 970-416-2815 at least 2 weeks prior to the start of the activity. What to Bring: Dress appropriately for the weather forecast. It is generally a little cooler and windy at this site. Bring sunscreen, a hat, closed-toe, sturdy shoes, and plenty of water. Pack a lunch and snacks. Snake gaiters to protect feet and ankles will be provided and highly encouraged. There is limited cell phone reception at Soapstone Prairie. Program Description: Experts in geology, ecology, and history show how Soapstone Prairie was formed, the creatures that keep it functioning, and the homesteading and ranching history that is part of our heritage. The hikes offer participants unique off trail experiences. This hike will head east towards a spring wetland area, with moderate difficulty. We will parallel the Pronghorn Loop and Plover trails, but will be hiking off-trail over uneven terrain.
Maximum Participants: 15Registration is required for this activity. Click "register" to reserve your spot.
Thank you Fort Collins and Larimer County voters! Your support of citizen-initiated sales taxes makes land conservation and educational activities like this possible.
AJ Chlebnik
Pronouns: she/her/hers
City of Fort Collins
Natural Areas Department
Public Engagement Specialist
970-224-6118
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I have been a Fort Collins Master Naturalist since 2007 and a Colorado Native Plant Master since 2011. I recently retired after 18 years as a biology professor at Colorado College and am now a volunteer Curator at the Gillette Museum of Arthropod Diversity at CSU. In addition to presenting programs as a volunteer naturalist, I continue to do field research on native plants and insects and enjoy participating in community-science projects.
Retired from Univ of Illinois, Illinois State Geological Survey, PhD Geology and Chemistry, MN Class of 2014. Annually, I lead geology trips to three foothills Natural Areas to examine the geologic history and deposits that are integral to the landscape of Larimer County. Interests: Local Geology and geological history, photography, hiking, fly fishing, birding, anything Soapstone, like Hike Through the Ages. Moved to Ft C in 2012 and loving it and the folks at Natural Areas.
A former biology teacher turned science writer, illustrator, and graphic designer, I've been a Master Naturalist since 1995. My illustrations have been incorporated in many of the local natural area entrance signs. I enjoy sharing my passion for natural history and scientific illustration with others.
(970) 224-6118