North Cascades National Park Complex has launched a dynamic new Junior Ranger Program, which is FREE to the public. Four new age-appropriate activity booklets are being unveiled. The Junior Ranger program goals are for children to have fun in the park and to foster a lasting relationship with the North Cascades. The new program was developed with support from Washington’s National Park Fund and the NPS Centennial Challenge.
“The free Junior Ranger program is a great way for families to explore the park together," said Chip Jenkins, Superintendent. “My family enjoyed doing the Junior Ranger program. My kids think it’s great."
The Junior Ranger booklets introduce the unique natural and cultural history of the North Cascades, through a series of fun activities, organized around a specific theme to build connections and knowledge of this national park. Each booklet also has a “totem animal" that helps guide kids and families through the activities and offers instruction, hints and ways they can explore the North Cascades. Activities are grouped into ages 3-5 (Pacific Tree Frog), 5-8 (Black Bear), 8-11 (Raven), and 12+ (Mountain Goat).
Future Junior Rangers can earn badges, patches and certificates by completing at least six activities in the Junior Ranger booklet. Free booklets are available at any of the six visitor information centers in North Cascades National Park Complex. www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/hours.htm
Staff Pick: WebRangers! Visit www.nps.gov/webrangers/ to become an NPS WebRanger. Kids of all ages are invited to explore and learn about all of the National Park sites through the United States. You can earn virtual badges by completing activities, solving puzzles, reading stories, and sharing your National Park experiences with other WebRangers.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
