Ecology of the Santa Fe Mountains

Within a short distance of the Santa Fe Plaza lies a great variety of habitats and plant communities. In this mostly downhill hike of 7.5 miles, examine vegetation gradients, the evolution of ecosystems, the interplay between geography and climate, microclimates and individual flora and fauna that have adapted to various environmental conditions. Geologic processes, animal tracks, along with plant and bird identification illustrate the details of the various habitats visited. Students arrange for their own transportation.