About the Naturalist, Karen Vail received her B.S. in Horticulture, with a concentration in Botany from Colorado State University, and earned her Master's Degree in Gardening from the Royal Horticultural Society in England. She rode the "big yellow bus" for a year at Audubon Expedition Institute during her first year towards a Master's in Environmental Education finishing up in New England. Karen taught Botany at the local college and began to lead summer wildflower hikes. Karen has published two books, "For the Joy of Wildflowers: Colorado Creations," and "Yampa Valley Visions: Photography and Writing of a Yampa Valley Naturalist." She has co-published a video/DVD, "A Season of Wildflowers: The Rocky Mountains," and the book, "Edible and Medicinal Plants of the Southern Rockies." Important details: AGES 18+ Where to meet: We will meet at the USFS Office at 925 Weiss Drive at 7:45am to carpool/caravan to the Derby Creek trail in the Flattops. We will be back at the Office around 3:30pm. What to wear: Dress for the weather (current and future) and dress in layers! Many people like to wear long pants/sleeves to protect themselves from the sun, dirt, and things that might make them itchy (mosquitos, etc.). Avoid cotton when you’re able and go with a synthetic material or wool. Also remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes, good socks, a cool sun hat, and sunscreen! What to bring in your day pack: 2 Water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, extra layers (long sleeve shirt, fleece), and your waterproof jacket- weather changes quickly, so make sure to prepare for cooler/wet weather. Please bring along any medications you may need, including epi-pens. We ask that you please leave furry friends at home unless they are service animals! If you have additional questions or need more information, please email hailey@yampatika.org or call the office at (970) 871-9151