SnowSchool for Changemakers

A Field Session for Community Leaders on Mt. Spokane
Friday March 20, 2026 | 10:00–11:00 am
(Optional guided snowshoe trek to follow)

Each winter, The Lands Council’s SnowSchool program connects students with the landscapes that sustain our region—our forests, our snowpack, and the water beneath our feet.

SnowSchool is a hands-on education program that brings groups of students to Mt. Spokane to snowshoe, explore winter ecology, and learn how snowpack feeds the aquifer that provides water to our communities. For many participants, it’s their first time on the mountain and their first time seeing how climate, water, and forests are connected.

This program has been running for ten years and has benefitted hundreds of students.

As climate change brings warmer winters and less snow, SnowSchool’s role in educating the next generation has never been more important, but is now facing a loss of funding. This VIP session offers invited guests a firsthand look at the program’s impact and the science behind it.

On Friday March 20, The Lands Council is hosting a special SnowSchool session for community changemakers. This invitation-only experience offers a firsthand look at how SnowSchool works, why it matters, and how community support can help sustain it.

What to expect

Local leaders and media gather at Selkirk Lodge for light refreshments and short presentations
Learn how snowpack is measured and how it affects our regional aquifer
Visit a snow pit with Lands Council staff to explore snow layers up close
Optional: Join a 2-mile guided snowshoe trek to learn more about winter ecology

Join us for a fun hand-on experience that connects education, climate, and community, and help ensure this program continues for future generations.

HOW TO GET THERE

The Lands Council, in partnership with the City of Spokane Parks and Recreation, will be offering rides to those who don’t want to drive and purchase a parking permit. We will have two vans departing downtown Spokane at 9:00AM. One will return after the main event, and the other will return after the optional snowshoe trek.

If you want to drive yourself, we will meet at the Selkirk Lodge parking lot. If you don’t already have a parking permit, you can purchase one here. The cost is $25 for a Daily Sno Park Permit. This can also be purchased in the Nordic Hut Rental Trailer next to the lodge.

DIRECTIONS: Cell service is unreliable on the mountain. You can download or print these directions. Alternatively, use Google Maps: type “Selkirk Lodge Mt Spokane” for an accurate route.

What to wear

Dress warmly and wear water-resistant footwear. If you’ll be snowshoeing with us, we recommend wearing layers and warm gloves/mittens and hats, and bring a bottle of water. The Lands Council will provide snowshoes for everyone.

We hope you’ll join us on the mountain!

RSVP HERE

Learn more about SnowSchool and The Lands Council’s other education programs: https://landscouncil.org/environmental-education