Students explore how plants and animals adapt to live in different habitats while hiking in Black Rock Forest. Learn about geology, soils and the history of the Highlands, from glaciation to forest succession.

The trail begins at the Center for Science and Education, thirteen stops have been identified along a hike that heads up to Aleck Meadow Reservoir, over Black Rock Mountain and ends at the White Oak tree. Each stop represents different habitats found in the forest. At each stop, students collect information about wildlife, plant life, geology and soils, environmental measurements, and human impacts.

Estimated time needed for the hike and investigations is four hours for a group of 20 or less.

Ecosystems Teacher’s Manual

An illustrated manual authored by John Brady and Isabel Ashton that provides detailed descriptions of habitats and activities along a hike to the White Oak tree