Self-Guided Field Trips

Self-guided field trips at the Swaner EcoCenter provide opportunities for youth groups to explore and learn at their own pace. These programs are intended for school groups and youth groups (like Scout troops, afterschool programs, and summer camps).  

• Self-guided field trips are available for up to 20 youth participants.
• Self-guided field trips must be scheduled at least one week in advance. This helps ensure that self-guided field trips aren’t visiting during guided field trips or other programs.
• Walk-in groups may be in jeopardy of being turned away upon arrival. 

Booking a Self-Guided Field Trip 

Self-guided field trips are available Wednesday – Friday, 10 am to 4 pm. Request a self-guided field trip by completing the form below. Once we have received your request, our staff will reach out to schedule your program within 7 days. 

Request a Self-Guided Program

Pricing

$3 per youth participant
*during special exhibits, pricing may increase to $5 per youth participant*

No charge for adult staff/chaperones 
*we require 1 adult staff or chaperone for every 10 youth participants* 

What Can We Do During a Self-Guided Field Trip?

Self-guided field trip groups can spend a maximum of an hour and a half at the EcoCenter. Most groups stay between 45 minutes and an hour. Groups can explore and play in the exhibit hall and Naturalist Room, connect with nature by taking a walk on our 400-foot pier onto the Preserve, venture up the four-story tower to look for wildlife, and go for a short hike on the Wetland Discovery Trail.

Self-guided field trips do not include access onto the South side of the Preserve except for the Wetland Discovery trail.

There is not space available to eat lunch inside the EcoCenter or on the back deck. Many groups will eat outside on the Newpark Plaza and lawn or will walk or drive to the Spring Creek trailhead to eat lunch. 

Contact Information

Name: Katherine Veeder
Position: Director of Education
E-mail: katherine.veeder@usu.edu
Phone: 435-797-8942