Join us to learn about the edible and medicinal plants found in Rocky Mountain National Park!
Not only are Rocky’s plants diverse and beautiful, but many species were part of the grocery store and pharmacy of earlier peoples and are still used today. We will explore these edible and medicinal species with a focus on their identification, current and historic usage as food and medicine, preparation techniques, ethical harvesting, and conservation. We will also discuss some toxic species to avoid!
Participants will:
- Acquire skills in identifying native and non-native edible and medicinal plants found in the southern Rocky Mountains, as well as toxic species to avoid.
- Learn about common, traditional, and historic uses of wild plants, plant parts used, and methods of preparation for food and medicine.
- Understand the importance of plant conservation, ethical harvesting, and safe use of wild plants.
Who: Participants ages 16 and up.
Program level: Moderate – These programs are most appropriate for those with some hiking experience. Expect to travel 1-2 miles over the course of the program and to be on your feet for several hours at a time. Participants should be comfortable navigating both maintained trails and unmaintained meadows or wooded areas. Transportation will be in a 15-passenger van with bench seats and a narrow aisle that requires stepping up to enter. Prior experience hiking or walking above 8,000 feet is recommended.
This program is entirely field based.
When: Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 9:00am to 3:00pm
Where: Meet at the Estes Park Visitor Center and travel together to various locations within RMNP in Conservancy vehicles. All required fees and permits for park entry are included in your registration.
What to Bring:
