Elena’s love for nature is no accident. Since she was just a gleam in her mother’s eye, Elena has been exposed to the wonder and magic of nature. Elena’s parents have made getting outdoors—rain, shine, and snow—a priority. As a result, Elena—a curious, bright and engaged preteen—finds an abundance of joy and wonder in nature.
For half her life, Elena has explored the trails of Bald Hill Farm with her beloved fur-companion, Freddie. Freddie—named after Freddie Mercury—is a soft, brown, adorable mini-Aussie who greets every opportunity to get outside as if he’s won the lottery. “He’s playful and curious. Sometimes my parents call me Freddie and him Elena,” she giggles.
Elena’s family moved to Corvallis from Washington state in 2012 and have actively explored all parts of Oregon. As a result, Elena has many nature favorites: from snowshoeing in the winter, the magical quarry near her house in northwest Corvallis, wading in cool waters on hot days with Freddie, camping with her neighbor Elliot (who’s dad is a great camp cook), to strolls around Bald Hill Farm whenever she gets the chance.
Her eyes widen, her face brightens and she leans in to answer the question about why she loves nature. “It is nice being out of the house, getting fresh air and exploring,” said Elena.
One of our favorite photos at Greenbelt was taken in 2013, of Elena and Freddie, happily running down a path at Bald Hill. Just look at them below, and try not to have a smile on your face! We decided to catch up with Elena and Freddie five years later … and although both have grown a few inches, not much else has changed … same delightful glee of being outdoors, together.
Elena and Freddie at Bald Hill in 2013 (left) and 2019 (right)
Elena’s mom, Jennifer, is a wildlife biologist and has spent a lot of time outdoors. Jennifer credits her parents for cultivating her love of nature, “Even though we lived in a city, we did a lot of camping and sailing. They encouraged me to explore.”
One of Jennifer’s favorite spots to run in Corvallis is on Mulkey Ridge and Fitton Green. “I love the variety of habitat all through there. You get riparian forest, meadow, and oaks … just such a variety,” said Jennifer.
As for passing down an appreciation of nature to the next generation, Jennifer poignantly shared her hopes for Elena, “I want her to continue to enjoy being outside, to have a curiosity about the world around her.” Turning to Elena, “I hope you don’t ever lose that—it’s pretty special,” said Jennifer.
***This event is currently full. To add your name to the waitlist, please email Rebecca. You will be contacted as soon as possible if space becomes available.
Join Greenbelt and geologist, Robert J. (Bob) Lillie, for a Geology Walk at Fitton Green Natural Area. Back by popular demand, Bob will take us on a journey through geological time as he describes the forces such as volcanic eruptions, tectonic plates, and erosion that formed Oregon’s spectacular mountains, valleys, and coastlines. Fitton Green is a special natural area with unparalleled panoramic views of the Coast Range that provide a dramatic backdrop for this popular free and family-friendly walk.
Hike Leader
Bob Lillie draws on his experience as a geology professor, park ranger, and graphic illustrator to tell the geological story of the Corvallis region and its connections to Oregon’s natural and cultural history. He is a writer, illustrator, and national park ranger specializing in communicating park landscapes and their deeper meanings to the public. He was a Professor of Geosciences at Oregon State University (1984 to 2011) and is a Certified Interpretive Trainer through the National Association for Interpretation. His new book is “Oregon’s Island in the Sky: Geology Road Guide to Marys Peak.” At the end of the walk, copies will available for purchase and signing.
Lillie’s other books include “Beauty from the Beast: Plate Tectonics and the Landscapes of the Pacific Northwest (2015) and “Parks and Plates: The Geology of Our National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores” (2005)
Help protect Fitton Green Natural area by clipping overhanging branches from an access road for restoration equipment and firefighting. Experience a seldom-seen part of this beautiful natural area protected by Greenbelt Land Trust and Benton County Natural Areas and Parks. Fitton Green is home to rare species including Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly.
Recommended for ages 16 and up. Minors need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. This volunteer opportunity involves walking a couple of miles and working at one’s own pace on uneven natural surfaces in an environment where poison oak may be present. Restrooms are not available at this site.
To sign-up, fill out the short form below.
If you have any questions, please email rebecca@greenbeltlandtrust.org.
*This walk is currently full. If you would like to put your name on the waitlist, please email Jessica.
Join us for a walk with geologist, Robert J. (Bob) Lillie, as we take a journey up Fitton Green and through geological time. We’ll learn about the forces, including volcanic eruptions, tectonic plates, and erosion, that formed Oregon’s spectacular mountains, valleys, and coastlines. Bob draws on his experience as a geology professor, park ranger, and graphic illustrator to tell the geological story of the Corvallis region and its connections to Oregon’s natural and cultural history. This outing is part of the Oregon Walk the Land Day.
Bob Lillie is a writer, illustrator, and national park ranger specializing in communicating park landscapes and their deeper meanings to the public. He was a Professor of Geosciences at Oregon State University (1984 to 2011) and is a Certified Interpretive Trainer through the National Association for Interpretation. His new book is “Oregon’s Island in the Sky: Geology Road Guide to Marys Peak.” At the end of the walk, copies will available for purchase and signing.
Lillie’s other books include “Beauty from the Beast: Plate Tectonics and the Landscapes of the Pacific Northwest (2015) and “Parks and Plates: The Geology of Our National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores” (2005)
The 11th Annual Run for the Hills will take place on Saturday, June 10th! This event features 30K and 8K trail runs, a 2-mile run/walk, and a 1/4-mile kids fun run. This popular event is great for the whole family!
Proceeds benefit Greenbelt Land Trust’s Trails Fund to help maintain and enhance our public trail systems.
REGISTRATION
Registration is now open- register HERE!
MUSIC
This year we’ll have live music! The Breakthrus will be performing their original folk rock music.
FOOD/BEER
In addition to complimentary food and drink, Mazama Brewing Co. will provide beer and Happy Shawarma will have Mediterranean food for purchase.
VOLUNTEERS
Help make this year’s Run for the Hills a success! Various roles are available. Please contact Rebecca (rebecca@greenbeltlandtrust.org).
*For more info, visit www.gltrunforthehills.com. “Like” Run for the Hills on Facebook!
