Volunteer day: Native seed collection
2021-11-06 12:30 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us to collect and clean seeds of native grasses and wildflowers for use in our grassland restoration programs.
Age: Adults only and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.

Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED so that we can communicate with you in case of changes.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Nature Club
2021-11-06 13:00 - 15:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Come on out for our Nature Club! You’ll have the opportunity to explore the field station, learn about local plants and animals, and spend time with like-minded, nature-loving peers. Bring your friends!
Cost: $10 ($8 for Friends of Clifton)
Age: Youth grades 6-12; this program is drop off only

Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall). Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Bird Walk
2021-11-10 08:00 - 10:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Novice and experienced birders will enjoy this guided 1-2 mile hike to look for the many species of birds that can be found on the field station. We will explore successional fields, meadows, lake edges, and forest.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children 12 and up, accompanied by an adult
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall). Please check your email for updates the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. IF PAID EVENT– No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Piedmont Polliwogs
2021-11-11 10:00 - 11:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Piedmont Polliwogs is a monthly pre-K program that includes an outdoor story time and short nature walk.

Cost: Free!
Age: Children ages 2-5, accompanied by a caregiver
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall). Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
What to bring: Blanket to sit on, hat, bottle of water.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Family Nature Walk
2021-11-13 10:00 - 12:00 | 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Families with children in grades K-8 are invited to come along as we explore the field station and experience autumn in Virginia. We’ll explore the woods to look for changes in the landscape and migrating birds. This program is a wonderful opportunity for families to explore nature together. We pick a different trail to explore each month and usually move slowly as we stop often to look at and learn about the plants and animals that live in Northern Virginia.

Cost: Free!

Age: Families with children in grades K-8

Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Native Seed Propagation and Collection Workshop
2021-11-13 10:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Collecting and propagating native seeds is a great way to help spread native plant populations, add 100% native species to your gardens, and learn about the native plants in your backyard. Although it may seem daunting, learning a few simple guidelines will get you well on your way to collecting and sowing your own seeds. Executive Director Bert Harris and Hill House Nursery’s Janet Davis will lead participants in learning when seeds are ready to collect, how to collect and store seeds, and how to propagate them.
Age: Adults and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. IF PAID EVENT– No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

After-School Adventure
2021-11-16 16:00 - 18:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
For the first time ever, we are offering after-school programs! Students in grades 3-8 are invited to join us on the third Tuesday of every month for an adventure in nature. Activities will vary from month to month and will include science projects, art projects, and lessons in outdoor skills; but every month we will spend time outside making friends with each other. Sign up now and bring your friends!

Cost: $10 ($8 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)
Age: Children in grades 3-8, drop-off only
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall)
What to bring: Hat, bottle of water, sunscreen, bug spray, binoculars, camera.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

Fall Book Club: The Fly Trap
2021-11-18 18:00 - 20:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
This fall, we will read and discuss the Fly Trap by Fredrik Sjoberg, a memoir by a Swedish entomologist, as well as a “a meditation on the unexpected beauty of small things and an exploration of the history of entomology itself.” To support our local independent bookstore, you can purchase your copy online or in store at Old Town Open Book.
Our book discussions are typically small and informal. You don’t even have to have finished the book to attend!
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults only
Weather policy: Rain or shine.
What to wear: We will evaluate COVID-19 restrictions closer to the date. If the situation permits we will meet inside in our parlor. If not, we will meet in our historic log cabin which permits greater ventilation. Either way, we will have a fire in the fireplace and warm drinks.
What to bring: Your copy of the book, a cup of tea or another beverage to enjoy
COVID-19 Information: This program will take place inside. We are requiring all participants to be fully vaccinated and to wear masks. We will ask to see vaccination cards. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible.
Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Volunteer day: Invasive species removal
2021-11-20 09:00 - 12:00, 2021-12-04 13:00 - 16:00, 2021-12-11 09:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Invasive plant species crowd out native plants and provide little to no food for native animals. Every winter we work to remove invasive Autumn Olive from around our property and over the last few years we have made a lot of progress, thanks to all of our amazing volunteers!
Please bring your own work gloves, chainsaws, and loppers if you have them.
Age: Adults only and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.

Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED so that we can communicate with you in case of changes.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Walk with a Naturalist
2021-11-20 13:00 - 15:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us for a walk on our trails with one our naturalists. Unlike most of our programs, we won’t be looking for anything in particular. Instead we’ll amble and explore and see what we can find!
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children 12 and up, accompanied by an adult
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall). Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
What to bring: Water bottle, hat, sunscreen, bug spray, camera, binoculars.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Nature Club
2021-12-04 13:00 - 15:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Come on out for our Nature Club! You’ll have the opportunity to explore the field station, learn about local plants and animals, and spend time with like-minded, nature-loving peers. Bring your friends!
Cost: $10 ($8 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)

Age: Youth grades 6-12; this program is drop off only.

Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall). Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Bird Walk
2021-12-08 08:00 - 10:00, 2022-01-12 08:00 - 10:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Novice and experienced birders will enjoy this guided 1-2 mile hike to look for the many species of birds that can be found on the field station. We will explore successional fields, meadows, lake edges, and forest.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children 12 and up, accompanied by an adult
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall). Please check your email for updates the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Project Feederwatch Giveaway
2021-12-08 10:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Friends of the Rappahannock will be giving away free Project Feederwatch bird feeders at the Clifton Institute after our regular Wednesday morning bird walk! The feeders are first-come first-serve, and the limit is one per family. A Friends of the Rappahannock instructor will give you instructions on how participate in Project Feederwatch, which is a community science project run by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Having a bird feeder is a great way to learn about our winter birds and help contribute to science!

Piedmont Polliwogs
2021-12-09 10:00 - 11:00, 2022-01-13 10:00 - 11:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Piedmont Polliwogs is a monthly pre-K program that includes an outdoor story time and short nature walk.

Cost: Free!
Age: Children ages 2-5, accompanied by a caregiver
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall). Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
What to wear: Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
What to bring: Blanket to sit on, hat, bottle of water.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Beginner Grass Identification
2021-12-11 10:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
At first glance, it might seem like grasses all look the same and that they don’t offer the same beauty that showy flowers do. But we think it’s worth taking the time to learn to tell grasses apart and to appreciate their unique beauty. And winter is a great time to do it because the grasses have gone to seed and are easy to see in an otherwise quiescent landscape. In this workshop for beginners, Executive Director Bert Harris will take participants on a walk through some of our fields and teach participants how to identify common grasses.
Age: Adults and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. IF PAID EVENT– No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Family Nature Walk
2021-12-11 10:00 - 12:00, 2022-01-15 10:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States

After-school Adventure
2021-12-14 16:00 - 18:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
For the first time ever, we are offering after-school programs! Students in grades 3-8 are invited to join us for an adventure in nature. Activities will vary from month to month and will include science projects, art projects, and lessons in outdoor skills; but every month we will spend time outside making friends with each other. Sign up now and bring your friends!

Cost: $10 ($8 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)
Age: Children in grades 3-8, drop-off only
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall)
What to wear: Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
What to bring: Hat, bottle of water, sunscreen, bug spray, binoculars, camera.
Registration REQUIRED. Please note, we are using a new event registration system. If you have any problems, please contact us at info@cliftoninstitute.org.
Cancellation policy: No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation. If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible.
Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Lichens for Beginners
2021-12-18 14:00 - 16:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Lichens, part algae, part fungi, and all mystery! Lichens are some of the hardiest organisms on earth and can be found all around us, but they can be difficult to identify. In this program mycologist Thomas Roehl will teach us about lichen biology and then lead us on a walk around the field station to see how many types of lichens we can find.
Cost: $10 ($8 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)

Age: Adults and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.

Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will include a brief presentation inside. We are requiring all participants to be fully vaccinated and to wear masks inside. We will ask to see vaccination cards. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Christmas Bird Count
2021-12-19 09:00 - 18:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us for our annual Christmas Bird Count! We’ll spend the day surveying the birds in our 15-mile-diameter count circle, which includes a variety of habitats. We usually see a nice diversity of waterfowl and grassland birds. There’s always a chance for Short-eared Owl and American Tree Sparrow! Participating in the Christmas Bird Count is a great way to learn about the winter birds of Virginia, contribute to a long-term community science project, and get to know other birdwatchers in the area.
After you register, our staff will assign you to a team of volunteers led by an expert counter. (If you feel qualified to lead a team, please let us know!) Beginners will be assigned to a team responsible for counting the Clifton Institute’s property; this will give you a chance to go slow and learn how to identify our winter birds. If you are an experienced birdwatcher we will likely assign you to a team that will drive from site to site in our circle. Each team will decided whether to carpool or caravan from site to site.
Unless conditions change dramatically, we plan to have a compilation dinner here at the Clifton Institute at the end of the day. Since we will be inside, we ask that you be vaccinated and bring your vaccine card. If you are not vaccinated or are uncomfortable being inside, you can leave your data with us, grab a treat, and go. Chili will be warm starting at 5:00PM.
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.

Bring: Please bring binoculars and a spotting scope if you have one.

Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can make sure every group gets the volunteers they need.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

Nature School: Spring Semester
2022-01-05 09:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
This series, which takes place between January and May, is a chance for young students to dip their toes into 10 different topics as we watch the land around us become green again! Each session will include time spent journaling, learning about science, and going on a hike. The younger group will also be read a story.
Students are expected to bring their own snacks, water, and backpack but all other materials will be provided. We will divide into two groups split roughly by age for most of the time, to allow for students to engage in activities that are appropriately challenging. Therefore, we ask that students come prepared for the possibility of being in a different group from their siblings. We also ask that children who are not yet in kindergarten or who will be uncomfortable being away from a caregiver participate in our Piedmont Polliwogs programs. We are outside for the duration of every session, rain or shine, so dress for the weather!
We will meet every other Wednesday from 9:00AM to 12:00PM on the following dates:
January 5
January 19
February 2
February 16
March 2
March 16
March 30
April 13
April 27
May 11

Cost: $100 ($80 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)

Age: Children in grades K-5, drop-off only.

Bring: Water bottle, snack, and backpack. We also recommend a small towel, seat pad, or piece of tarp to sit on on the trail.

Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Open-access Day for Friends of the Clifton Institute
2022-01-08 08:00 - 16:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
We invite Friends of the Clifton Institute to come explore the field station on their own every Saturday from mid-January to mid-October. You can become a Friend of Clifton with a minimum annual donation of $40. Your support will help us reach our goals of expanding and improving our education, restoration, and research programs this year. Thank you!

Before attending an open-access day, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here). As you walk our trails, you can help us take care of the field station by keeping your eyes and ears open to help us learn about the ecosystem we’re a part of and by enjoying and respecting the plants and animals that live here.

A trail map is available here. Please note that some trails are in the process of being built and many are not marked. Navigation skills and a GPS are recommended. Please stay on the trails, use common sense, and proceed at your own risk.
The farmhouse is closed to all visitors at this time. There are port-a-potties available in both parking lots.
We reserve the right to deny access to our property to anyone who does not obey the rules posted below or is otherwise disruptive to our field station operations.

On open-access days, you may park either at the lower parking area (“the Gap”) or at the farm house.
All children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
You are welcome to bring your family with you on open-access days. One or two visitors are acceptable as well, but if this starts to be abused we reserve the right to limit the benefit to family members.
No dogs are permitted.
Leave no trace. We expect you to take all litter with you. It would be even better if you helped us pick up any litter you find! We do not have trash collection facilities.
Take nothing but photographs. We use our trails to teach kids about the environment and their experiences are much richer if there are still feathers and bones and everything else for them to look at.
No swimming, fishing, boating, or any other entry in the ponds.
No alcohol is permitted.
No horses, bicycles, automobiles, ATVs, or any other vehicles are allowed on the trails.
No hunting is permitted.

Volunteer Day: Seed Cleaning
2022-01-08 09:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
We have been collecting seeds from native plants in the area and we need your help separating the seeds from the other plant material and getting them ready to plant!

Age: Adults only and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.

Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED so that we can communicate with you in case of changes.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Nature Club
2022-01-08 22:00 - 23:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
We are changing up Nature Club! Over 5 sessions beginning in January and running through May, Nature Club will be focused on completing one, big project. Participants will work together to create a map of an uncharted piece of Clifton and build a trail that runs through it. The season will culminate in an unveiling party for the new trail led by the students themselves. This is a chance for interested, motivated naturalists to discover corners of the property that not even the staff have seen! We will focus on new skills each month including cartography, compass-work, and plant ID. By working in the same patch of woods each session and watching it change with the onset of spring, students will have the opportunity to feel deep connection to a piece of land. All materials will be provided. Dates below:
Saturday, January 8th (1-3PM)
Saturday, February 5th (1-3PM)
Saturday, March 5th (1-3PM)
Saturday, April 2nd (1-3PM)
Saturday, May 7th (1-3PM) – Unveiling Party!
Cost: $50 ($40 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)

Age: Youth grades 6-12; this program is drop off only.

Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall). Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Volunteer Day: Seed Sowing
2022-01-15 09:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
We have been collecting seeds from native plants in the area and we need your help planting the seeds in trays!

Age: Adults only and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.

Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED so that we can communicate with you in case of changes.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

After-school Adventure Series
2022-01-18 16:00 - 18:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
We are changing up After-school Adventure! Over 5 sessions beginning in January and running through May, After-school Adventure will be focused on completing one, big project. Participants will spend the first part of the season exploring different parts of Clifton, taking care to notice special places off the beaten track. Then they will work together to create a trail to their favorite special place, each participant getting a section of trail to take care of and watch change as we swing into spring. Sometimes adventure looks like knowing one single place on earth better than anyone else, and getting to see the crazy things that unfold when you sit still for a second to watch.
After-school Adventure sessions are the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 4-6PM:
Tuesday, January 18th (4-6PM)
Tuesday, February 15th (4-6PM)
Tuesday, March 15th (4-6PM)
Tuesday, April 19th (4-6PM)
Tuesday, May 17th (4-6PM)

Cost: $50 ($40 for Friends of the Clifton Institute) for entire series.
Age: Children in grades 3-8, drop-off only
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall)
What to wear: Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
What to bring: Hat, bottle of water, sunscreen, bug spray, binoculars, camera.
Registration REQUIRED. Please note, we are using a new event registration system. If you have any problems, please contact us at info@cliftoninstitute.org.
Cancellation policy: No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation. If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible.
Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!
