Bigleaf Maple Sugaring

Teacher: Ella Smoot | Date: Sun, 02.09 , 10am-2pm | Location: Offsite
Tuition: $150 | Materials: $20

This workshop is designed to introduce community members to the history, science, mythology, and best practices of Pacific Northwest maple sugaring. More info...

Are you interested in learning the art of Bigleaf Maple Sugaring? Would you like to try your hand at maple syrup production in your own backyard? Participants will tour the Oregon Maple Project sugaring operation at Camp Colton, taste Bigleaf maple syrup, assist with sap collection and other tasks on the maple farm, and gain hands-on experience tapping trees. We will spend all of our time outdoors on trails, no matter the weather, so participants are asked to come prepared with proper footwear and clothing.

At the Oregon Maple Project we make syrup in order to connect with one another and with the natural world. We find magic in the process. Sugaring is rich in science, math, mythology, poetry, history, and community, and we are always learning while making. We relish working hard outdoors together, witnessing the first surge of spring, and creating a pure product from the land with our hands. Sugaring helps us remember the essential: the Earth abounds with gifts that nourish us in all ways. Let us respond with gratitude and respect.

Students will leave with a small sample bottle of Bigleaf Maple syrup, a set of sugaring instructions, and some other Bigleaf gifts!

Bigleaf Maple Sugaring photos taken by WildCraft instructor Erin Riddle, of KLiK Concepts.

This workshop is open to anyone 18 years old & over, who is prepared to hike all day (rain or shine) on uneven terrain, off-trail. This is not a suitable workshop for those with health conditions that may be triggered or exacerbated by hiking, carrying a backpack, or being outside for 5+ hours in variable weather conditions. All participants must meet the Essential Eligibility Criteria for Off-Site or Nature courses. Please leave dogs at home. Listed class locations are approximate and are subject to change at WildCraft’s sole discretion depending on weather conditions and other seasonal factors. A packing list and exact location will be provided 5 days prior to the workshop date.

All participants must accept the inherent risks of participating in an outdoor adventure and agree to sign a liability waiver. This waiver describes in more detail the risks you assume by participating in an Off-Site or Nature course. PLEASE carefully review it!

Please review our updated Cancellation Policy.

For information on Inherent Risk & Safety please click here.