Before You Arrive

What you need to know to be prepared for your class's arrival at the SMNHC on the day of their program.

Bus of students arriving at the SMNHC

What should my students bring for their program? What should they wear?

What should we expect?

Is there anything else I need to know?

Read on to find out.

What to Bring:

A Notebook or Journal for students to take notes during their visit.
A pen or pencil
Water bottle(s) with water (or electrolyte drink)
Sunscreen
Lunch

What to Wear:

Sturdy shoes with good traction. Choose shoes based on possibility for mud, rain, snow, or cold. If wet conditions, a change of shoes for the end of the day is a good idea.
Good socks to prevent blisters, and for warmth. Bring an extra pair if there may be wet conditions.
Sun hat
Extra layers including jackets, sweatshirts, hats, and/or gloves, as appropriate (at least 1 extra layer is always a good idea).

Remember, the SMNHC is in the mountains at 2,000 higher elevation than the city. Weather may be different than what it's like at your school, and can change throughout the day. We tend to be 5-10 degrees cooler, and we receive more precipitation.

Be Prepared for:

Students and adults hike down snow-covered trail with trees around them.

Up to a 2 mile moderate hike with rocky terrain as well as steep uphill and/or steep downhill segments.
Changing weather conditions. The weather can change very quickly in the Sandia Mountains, so be prepared.
No snacks on the trail, unless they are required for a medical condition.
A fun and exciting learning experience!

Is there anything else to know?

Please no infants or young children. They may detract from student learning. There is also a risk of injury to the child and/or the parent due to the nature of the hike.
Please do not smoke on our property. This is an educational facility and we have a no smoking policy.
Please no pets. Having pets can interrupt to the learning experience. There is also the risk of pets getting hurt or lost while on a hike.
Please don't use your cellphone. It can be a distraction and you can get left behind. If you have to use it please limit your usage.
Please limit chaperones to 5 per class.
Chaperones who arrive late may not be able to join their group on the hike.

This page was last updated on: August 16, 2021.