About the Tour: Join us as we survey for the American Pika! Learn about how these little lagomorphs are carving out an existence here in the Yampa Valley, as well as ways you can help them as their habitat is lost to climate change. This guided hike and wildlife survey will include using the Pika Patrol app to gather data to help the US Forest Service better understand our local pika colonies. Along the way, we will conduct a Nature's Notebook survey of local flora to gain a better understanding of the habitat as a whole. Where to Meet: We will meet at the Yampatika/USFS Office at 925 Weiss Drive at 7:20am. We will ride together in the Yampatika van to the trailhead. What to Expect: This route covers ~2 miles, sometimes over rocky terrain and unbroken trails. Total elevation gain is ~350 feet. There is a fair amount of sitting and watching involved during the pika survey. What to Wear/Bring: Dress for the weather (current and future) and dress in layers! Many people like to wear long pants/sleeves to protect themselves from the sun, dirt, and things that might make them itchy (mosquitos, etc.). Also remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes, good socks, a cool sun hat, and sunscreen! Be sure to pack 2 water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, extra layers, and your waterproof jacket- weather changes quickly, so make sure to prepare for cooler/wet weather. Please bring along any medications you may need, including epi-pens. We ask that you please leave furry friends at home! Due to the community science nature of this program, and the shared transportation, this program is not a good candidate for service animals to attend. This program has a 4-person minimum to run and will be canceled, with refunds, if we do not receive at least 4 registrations. If you have additional questions or need more information, please email hailey@yampatika.org or call the office at (970) 871-9151.