Stone Memory:

Geologic Histories of the
Columbia River Gorge

June 28
11—2 pm

$75 Trailhead
$95 Transport

Join us for a field-based geology workshop set in the Columbia River Gorge, where we'll trace the region’s dramatic geologic history through firsthand observation and guided interpretation. Led by geologist, Sam Eckes, this course explores the formation of the Gorge through the lens of tectonics, volcanism, and the Missoula Floods.

You’re welcome to ride with us from landdd, where transport is provided via passenger van. Or you can meet us directly at the trailhead COORDINATES

Participants will examine visible rock strata, glacial erratics, and basalt flows while learning to identify common igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks found throughout the Pacific Northwest. Through both macro and micro-scale analysis—from sweeping landscapes to hand-held specimens—we'll uncover the processes that have shaped this region over millions of years.

The workshop includes a dedicated session on creative observation. Using custom-designed landdd journals, participants will be guided through prompts and drawing exercises to visually interpret the landscape. This session bridges scientific understanding with personal reflection, encouraging participants to slow down, observe, and respond to their surroundings through mark-making and sketch-based field notes.

landdd portals invite people into the living landddscape, integrating ecological education & outdoor creative experiences.

Note: Due to the nature of our workshops, tickets cannot be refunded after purchase. If you can’t attend the workshop after purchase, future credit will be applied to upcoming workshops at landdd. We encourage a reconnection with ecological knowledge and equitable opportunity for outdoor recreation and offer discounted attendance to the BIPOC community. Contact us for BIPOC Scholarships.

Includes
Camp Coffee
Geologic Tour
Field Guide

Date
Saturday, June 28
11-2 PM

Partners
TBA

Expert
Sam Eckes

Location
Government Cove,
Cascade Locks, Oregon
USA 97014

Trail
Very Easy
0.5-1 mi
Public

Consider Bringing:
Sun Protection
Art Supplies

Timeline:
10:30 AM / landdd Cafe
11:00 AM / Portal Opens
2:00 PM / Portal Closes

Trailhead:
Meet at Government Cove Lot

Contacts:
Lillian Hardy @lillianhardy
Griffin Christensen @griffsc

Remember: Pack plenty of water and dress for all weather conditions. Light snacks will be provided & we encourage you to bring extra food on your own terms. If you have any allergies, please bring medications in case of emergency. Parking is plentiful, carpooling reccomended. Pop-up restroom available at the trailhead. Be aware of poison-oak and ticks. Not ADA Accessible.

Sam Eckes is a passionate geologist with a love for the outdoors and a knack for making rocks relatable. She leads geology field workshops that blend deep scientific insight with hands-on adventure. With field experience stretching from the rugged landscapes of Patagonia to the glacial formations of western New York and the richly layered terrains of Alabama, Sam brings global perspective to every trip.

Geo Ethics: Stay on designated trails and follow leave no trace principles / Keep a respectful distance from animals / Use your outdoor voice / Leave rocks where you found them / Thank you.

Workshops +Outdoor Portals

Workshops +Outdoor
Portals