Denali’s Alpine Wildlife
Course Information
High above tree line, where life survives on the edge, alpine ecosystems are warming and changing faster than almost anywhere on Earth. In these unique environments, home to specialized wildlife like pikas and marmots, these changes can dramatically alter the lives of the animals living there.
Course Details
Join wildlife biologist Jennifer Wall for a behind-the-scenes look at her research on the interwoven effects of a rapidly warming climate on alpine species. We’ll hike into Denali’s alpine ecosystem and learn all about the animals that live there while looking and listening for signs of their presence. We’ll get hands on experience collecting data used by scientists to document alpine wildlife distributions and explore the innovative ways scientists are studying how alpine species and ecosystems are responding to a changing world.
Physical Requirements
You must be physically prepared to hike off-trail up to 5 miles each day, at a comfortable pace, with climbs up to 1500 feet. Expect uneven footing, wet boggy tundra, dense undergrowth, loose rocks, and stream crossings less than knee height. Good coordination is recommended. Please review the Difficulty Level Scale for more information.
Like any outdoor activity, there are inherent risks associated with our field courses yet we actively manage our exposures and depend on you to play a role in our risk management. Read more here.
Professional Development Credit
One professional development credit is available for this course through the office of Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) at the University of Alaska Anchorage for an additional fee of $79. Information on the credit requirements and how to register and pay for the credit are available from the links below. The course syllabus and registration instructions will be available in May.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations and/or substitutions that occur 60 days in advance of the course start date will be refunded the course fee, less a processing fee of $50 per space. For cancellations and/or substitutions 59 to 8 days before the course start date, the entire fee will be retained unless we can fill your space. There will be no refunds within 7 days of the course start date. Registration fees are not transferable to future years. If we have to cancel a course, your entire fee will be refunded. Refunds will be credited to the credit card used during the original transaction if less than 60 days since the original transaction. All other refunds will be made through a mailed check. All membership purchases are non-refundable and non-transferable.
To cancel your registration, email courses@akgeo.org, or call 907-683-9632 or 907-771-8485.