Live In Maple Valley

Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of wildlife tracking! The upcoming “Tracking & Trailing Wild Animals” event offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in ways you’ve never experienced before. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or someone looking for a new outdoor adventure, this hands-on workshop promises to reveal the secrets of the wild that exist right in our own backyard. Led by experienced instructors from Wolf Camp, participants will gain valuable skills that transform an ordinary walk in the park into an immersive wildlife detective experience.

Wildlife tracking is like learning a new language—the language of the natural world. During this event, you’ll discover how to read the stories written in soil, sand, and mud by our animal neighbors who typically remain unseen. From distinguishing between deer and coyote tracks to understanding what a specific track pattern reveals about an animal’s behavior, the skills you’ll develop will forever change how you experience outdoor spaces. This isn’t just about identifying footprints; it’s about connecting with the web of life that surrounds us every day.

The wildlife tracking workshop begins with an overview that teaches participants how to recognize and identify animal tracks found throughout our bioregion. You’ll learn the distinctive characteristics of various mammal families, from canines to felines and rodents to ungulates, understanding the subtle differences that help distinguish between similar species. The instructors have developed a specialized approach to track identification that makes this sometimes challenging skill accessible to beginners while offering new insights to those with previous experience.

Following the introduction, you’ll participate in a hands-on “tracking scenario” using track cut-outs strategically arranged to simulate real-world tracking situations. This interactive experience allows you to practice your newly acquired identification skills while learning to interpret animal behaviors based on track patterns. Ever wondered why some tracks show a walking gait while others indicate running or stalking? Selected volunteers will demonstrate various “animal forms”—the distinctive movement patterns of different species—helping everyone understand how an animal’s locomotion creates specific track patterns. This kinesthetic learning approach bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing you for the real-world tracking expedition at the event’s finale.

The “Tracking & Trailing Wild Animals” event invites participants of all ages and experience levels. Adults seeking a connection with nature will find the experience both educational and reflective, while families with children will discover an engaging outdoor activity that sparks curiosity and fosters appreciation for wildlife. The program skillfully balances informative content with hands-on learning and inspirational moments, creating an experience that appeals to both the mind and heart. No previous tracking experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity and a willingness to observe the natural world with new eyes.

Your guides for this wildlife adventure are the highly qualified instructors from Wolf Camp. Chris Chisholm, the founder of Wolf Camp, brings decades of experience in nature education and wilderness skills, while coordinator Kim McKillip Chisholm contributes her expertise in outdoor leadership and environmental education. Together, they create a supportive learning environment where questions are encouraged and discoveries celebrated. Their passion for connecting people with nature is evident in their teaching approach, which emphasizes not just knowledge acquisition but also developing a deeper relationship with the natural world.

Securing your spot for this unique tracking event is straightforward with several payment options available. Zelle is the preferred method—simply use the Wolf Camp email address (with that extra “e” on skye) and include essential information such as participant names, ages, the event date, and your contact details. For those who prefer alternative payment methods, Venmo (@Chris-Chisholm-13), CashApp ($wolfschool), PayPal, Apple Pay, and credit card options are also available through the organization’s website.

If you’d rather register by phone, the instructors welcome calls between 9 AM and 9 PM at 425-248-0253 extension 1. Regardless of your chosen payment method, be sure to provide your contact information and specify that you’re registering for the June 24, 2025 wildlife tracking event. With limited spots available to ensure quality instruction and a meaningful experience for all participants, early registration is recommended. Don’t miss this opportunity to develop skills that will enhance your outdoor experiences for years to come!