Guided Group Programs

Bring your classroom or group to Glen Helen to explore Trailside Museum and have a guided hike through the beautiful Glen trails! 

Trailside programs are designed to help participants learn ecological concepts and connections while having fun in nature.  They combine games, trail explorations, and first hand observations.  Programs are led by one of the Glen Helen Outdoor Education Center’s experienced interpretive guides.  They cater to smaller groups, and cover an array of Ohio Academic Content Standards.  Programs are geared to 3rd-6th grade levels although adjustments may be made depending on the request.  Each program runs between one to two and a half hours depending on topic and age level.

Naturalists leading the Trailside Museum programs have previously completed a rigorous academic environmental education internship while leading Schoolcamp programs at Glen Helen.  College age or older, the Extension Naturalists are selected for their knowledge in education and their sensitivity, creativity, and enthusiasm for working with children.

Program Themes

Forest Communities: Hike into the Glen for an up-close look and understanding of the neighborhoods, or biological communities, in Glen Helen.  Kids can discover what it takes to make an ecosystem, and learn about the interconnectedness of the living and non-living players.

Critterville: This is an opportunity to meet the resident snake and box turtle at the Trailside Museum.  Listen to animal talks, and have a chance to touch the animals.  Students then learn about other animal adaptations and search for signs of wildlife on a hike in the Glen. 

Eco-Builders:  All organisms have a place in the ecosystem, including humans.  Students use creative problem solving in hands-on activities to learn about where goods we use come from, conservation, trash and recycling.  The program includes a hike in the Glen and activities to nurture a relationship to the earth and heighten environmental awareness. 

Trees! Trees! Trees!:  Get to know the quiet giants of the forest.  Students discover how trees grow, how to identify some different species, and some fascinating facts about a tree’s role in the forest ecosystem.  A hike to the pine forest may be included for two and a half hour programs depending on age level.

Natural Wonders Nature Hike:  Join the fun and use your five senses to discover and explore nature.  Play nature games and learn while having a good time in the forest.  Discover native plants and animals, and enjoy the scenery as your guide leads the group through the Glen.   

Rock and Roll:  The Glen is full of geological surprises, from trilobites and brachiopods to rock formations that seem to defy gravity.  Use the clues inside rocks to help piece together the ancient history of the Glen.  Visit the famous Yellow Springs, explore a cave, marvel at the cascades, and ponder the geological mystery of Pompey’s Pillar.   

Nocturnal Hike:  Explore the world of nighttime animals while on a flashlight-free hike through Glen Helen.  Learn about nocturnal animals and the specialized adaptations they use to prowl in the dark.  You will be amazed how well your eyes adjust to the dark surroundings, and how the forest comes to life in the twilight hours.  We request one chaperone per five kids for nocturnal hikes please!

Fees and Registration

Trailside Museum Guided Programs are $4.00 per student ($24.00 minimum per program). We request one chaperone per ten students for Trailside programs.  These chaperones are free of charge.  Extra chaperones are $2.00 per chaperone. Due to the nature of these programs, we can accommodate a maximum of 25 students per program.

Please register at least two weeks in advance.  If you need help finding a program to match your needs we would be happy to help you.  Hikes will continue in light rain or snow, but may be rescheduled for severe weather or other factors. To register a group, or for more information, contact the Outdoor Education Center at:

(937) 767-7648
1-800-538-4893
rjaramillo@antioch.edu