Field Trip FAQs
Directions to the Des Crossley Demonstration Forest
Des Crossley Trail Map & Forestry Study Legend
Our programs offer a unique field trip experience with curriculum-based activities that expose students to the multiple values of a working forest.
Des Crossley is located 25 km southwest of Rocky Mountain House. Historically a research site, the demonstration forest is a quarter-section of forested land with a 2.5 km maintained trail system.
- This field trip is no-cost and runs onsite from 10 am-2 pm
- Des Crossley field site operates May & June / September & October
- A $100/bus subsidy is also available, see our busing subsidy policy for details
Program Themes
Forest ecosystems | natural resource development | tree and shrub identification | tree measurements | land use and multiple perspectives | careers | trees and their products | stewardship.
Available Programs
Grade 4
Explore the living cycle of the forest by studying plants, how they grow and the role of decomposition. Students will consider the forest as a natural resource and discover how people connect with local forests.
Curriculum Connections:
Earth Systems
- Grade 4 - How does Earth sustain life?
Living Systems
- Grade 4 - In what ways do the structures of organisms support survival?
Grade 6
Connect with the forest by examining the natural and human factors that shape the forest landscape. Students will identify our forest plants, and use real forestry tools to explore careers.
Curriculum Connections:
Earth Systems
- Grade 6 - What relationship exist between climate and changes on Earth?
Living Systems
- Grade 6 - In what ways are ecosystems complex?
Junior High
Uncover the interactions in our forest ecosystems by exploring its symbiotic relationships, succession system, and soils along with traditional and modern human uses of our plants and natural resources.
Curriculum Connections:
- Gr 7 | Plants for Food and Fibre
- Interactions and Ecosystems
Junior High | WILDLIFE PROGRAM
This new program will utilize our on-site wildlife cameras to consider how species move and interact in the forest with an emphasis on species at risk and natural development.
Curriculum Connections:
- Environment & Outdoor Education
- Gr. 7 | Interactions and Ecosystems
- Gr. 9 | Biological Diversity
Senior High
Compare old growth and new growth forests through a comprehensive plot study and explore the opportunities and challenges of a multi-use forest area.
Curriculum Connections:
- CTS – Natural Resources – Forestry/Wildlife
- Environment & Outdoor Education
- Biology 20/30 Changes in Living Systems
- Ecosystems and Population Change
Contact a program coordinator with any questions.
Please inquire if you would like more detail or have a special program request!