The Clifton Institute

Nature Club
2021-11-06 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | 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!

Volunteer day: Native seed collection
2021-11-06 12:30 - 16:00 | 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!

Volunteer day: Tree planting
2021-10-30 09:00 - 12:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
In the spring we planted 975 tree seedlings along the stream in our native grassland. We need your help finishing the planting with a few more trees.
Please bring your own work gloves 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!

Foliage and Phenology Class
2021-10-30 09:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Phenology is the study of seasons in nature. Tracking when flowers bloom, when animals migrate, when mushrooms appear, or when anything else happens in nature, helps scientists understand our ecosystem and how it’s changing over time. Fall is a great time to study phenology because we can watch the leaves change colors all around us. In this class, students in grades 3-8 will learn about phenology and fall foliage and they will have the opportunity to participate in a community science project about the phenology of foliage. We hope we’ll see your young scientist there!
Cost: $10 ($8 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)
Age: Grades 3-8, drop-off only
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
What to bring: Hat, water bottle, 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. 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).

Octobird Fest: Owling at the Moon
2021-10-29 19:00 - 20:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Every October we offer a series of programs all about birds: Octobird Fest! Whether you come to one program or all three, you’ll learn a lot about the amazing birds that call Virginia home. The third program in the series is an in-person program about owls.
Come sit by a bonfire, roast marshmallows, listen to owl folklore from all over the world, and learn the facts behind the myths. We will also go on a short walk and get the chance to learn local owl calls!

Cost: $10 ($8 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)
Age: Adults and children, 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.
What to bring: FLASHLIGHT, bottle of water, 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).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Introduction to Nature Journaling
2021-10-23 13:00 - 15:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Nature journaling is a wonderful way learn about nature and make lasting memories of the time we spent outside. And it’s really fun! In this program, Managing Director Eleanor Harris will give a brief introduction to the practice of nature journaling, with examples, strategies, and tips. We’ll spend most of the program out in nature, practicing nature journaling together. Come if you’re an expert nature journaler or if you’ve never tried it before! Please bring your own drawing materials. Just a piece of paper and a pencil or pen will suffice. Colored pencils or a small watercolor set can also be fun.
Cost: $30 ($25 for Friends of Clifton)
Age: Adults and children 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.
What to bring: Journaling supplies, water bottle, hat, sunscreen, bug spray, 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. 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).

Volunteer day: Native grass seed collection
2021-10-23 09:00 - 12:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States

Bird Walk
2021-10-23 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)
What to bring: Binoculars, hat, bottle of water, sunscreen, bug spray, 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. 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).

Piedmont Polliwogs
2021-10-21 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. 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).

After-School Adventure
2021-10-19 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).

Walk with a Naturalist
2021-10-16 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: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. 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!

Volunteer day: Tree tube maintenance
2021-10-16 09:00 - 12:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
In the spring we planted 975 tree seedlings along the stream in our native grassland. We need your help maintaining the tree tubes and making sure that they continue to protect the seedlings from deer and other mammals.
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!

Octobird Fest: Winter Bird Identification
2021-10-15 19:00 - 20:00 | 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Every October we offer a series of programs all about birds: Octobird Fest! Whether you come to one program or all three, you’ll learn a lot about the amazing birds that call Virginia home. The first program in the series is a winter bird identification workshop on Zoom.
Every season brings its own challenges for birdwatching. In winter similar-looking sparrows can be hard to tell apart and birding by ear becomes more difficult as birds start singing less and calling more. Join the leaders of our bimonthly bird walks, including Executive Director Bert Harris, to learn some tips for identifying winter birds. Managing Director Eleanor Harris will quiz them with tricky calls and pictures and you can play along as they talk through the identification process! This program is intended for both beginner and advanced birders.
We will send a Zoom link closer to the date.

Cost: $10 ($8 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)
Age: All ages

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).

White-throated Sparrow picture by Cameron Darnell.

Bird Walk
2021-10-13 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)
What to bring: Binoculars, hat, bottle of water, sunscreen, bug spray, 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.

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!

Riverside Preserve Plant Walk
2021-10-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Riverside Preserve, 8150 Leeds Manor Road, Marshall, VA, 20115, United States
Join us to explore Fauquier County’s newest park. Riverside Preserve protects a fascinating variety of habitats, from mature riparian forest to mesic upland forest, and native meadows. In early October we will see late wildflowers in the meadows and the last insects of summer, including butterflies, hoverflies, and katydids. We will also look for and learn about riparian tree species, including hazelnut, bladdernut, ironwood, river birch, and the rare butternut. Cost: $12 per person
Age: Adults and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult
What to wear: Dress for the weather and wear comfortable clothes you can move in!
What to bring: Water bottle, hat, sunscreen, bug spray, camera, binoculars
Registration is REQUIRED. Please register on the Fauquier County Parks and Recreation website here; you can filter by location by selecting Riverside Preserve on the left.

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.).

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

Family Nature Walk
2021-10-09 10:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 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)
What to bring: hat, bottle of water, sun screen, 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. 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).

Volunteer day: Seed collecting
2021-10-09 09:00 - 12:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
For the last two years we have collecting seeds from native plants in the area to grow into seedlings for our own restoration projects and to sell to our community. We need your help collecting seeds on our property!
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
2021-10-02 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: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
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).

Volunteer day: Seed cleaning
2021-10-02 09:00 - 12:30 | 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!

Native Plant Sale
2021-09-25 10:00 - 14:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Native plants provide better food for insects, which in turn provide food for birds. You can make a huge difference for wildlife by planting native species on your property. Since fall 2019, we have been collecting seeds of native grassland plants from around the area, which means that in addition to being native they are also of local ecotypes. We will be selling seedlings grown from these seeds as well as commercially propagated seeds of native species, including a variety of perennial wildflowers for wet-dry areas and full sun-shade; native grasses; and a few trees, including oaks and pawpaws.
We will accept credit card, cash, or checks made out to the Clifton Institute.

Bird Walk
2021-09-25 07:30 - 09:30, 2021-09-08 07:00 - 09:00 | 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)
What to wear: Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
What to bring: Binoculars, hat, bottle of water, sunscreen, bug spray, camera
RSVP REQUIRED. Please note we are using a brand new event registration system. If you encounter any problems please let us know by emailing us at info@cliftoninstitute.org.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible. A few ‘no-shows’ have a significant impact on the success of our programs.
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!

Party in the Pawpaw Patch
2021-09-24 18:00 - 19:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us way down yonder for a Pawpaw party! We are excited to host this celebration of our only native tropical fruit tree! With many colorful nicknames such as the hillbilly mango, the pawpaw’s cultural flavor is as intriguing as its taste. We will give a brief talk on the ecology and cultural history of the species before we meander on over to the pawpaw patch to pick fruits to sample. Warning: You MIGHT be encouraged to participate in a sing-along 🙂
Cost: Free!
Age: This program is intended for adults. For families with children looking to learn more about pawpaws, join us for the Nature School and/or Family Nature Hikes programs in September and October.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. 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: Water bottle, hat, sunscreen, bug spray, camera, binoculars, and an appetite for pawpaws!
RSVP REQUIRED. Please note we are using a brand new event registration system. If you encounter any problems please let us know by emailing us at info@cliftoninstitute.org.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible. A few ‘no-shows’ have a significant impact on the success of our programs.
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
2021-09-21 04:00 - 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 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!

Walk with a Naturalist
2021-09-18 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: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. 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: Water bottle, hat, sunscreen, bug spray, camera, binoculars
RSVP REQUIRED. Please note we are using a brand new event registration system. If you encounter any problems please let us know by emailing us at info@cliftoninstitute.org.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible. A few ‘no-shows’ have a significant impact on the success of our programs.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Raptor Migration Field Trip
2021-09-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Snickers Gap, Bluemont, VA, 20135, United States
Every fall raptors migrate south along the Appalachian Mountains. Come and witness the peak migration of Broad-winged Hawks. If we’re lucky we might see thousands! Executive Director and ornithologist Bert Harris will lead the group and discuss how to identify raptors in flight. We will meet at Snickers Gap, where there’s an excellent view of migrating raptors and other birds.
Cost: FREE!
Age: Adults and children 12 and up, accompanied by an adult
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change based on weather and migration conditions. We will email registrants closer to the date to confirm the date and time and where we will meet.
What to wear: Outdoor clothing, including waterproof footwear and hats recommended.
What to bring: Binoculars and cameras suggested.
RSVP REQUIRED. Please note, we are using a new event registration system. If you have any problems, please contact us at info [at] cliftoninstitute [dot] org.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible. A few ‘no-shows’ have a significant impact on the success of our programs.
Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

Night-time Family Nature Walk
2021-09-11 19:30 - 21:00 | The Clifton Institute, 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 AT NIGHT! We’ll see how long we can walk without flashlights and then explore the woods to look for nocturnal animals and listen to the sounds of the night. We might hear owls screeching and flying squirrels calling and we can expect to see moths and katydids and other insects that are hard to see during the day. This is a special opportunity to see the Clifton Institute at a time of day when we usually don’t have programs and it’s a great way for families to explore nature together.

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)
What to wear: Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
What to bring: FLASHLIGHT, bottle of water, bug spray, binoculars, camera
Registration REQUIRED. Please register all members of your group so that we can have an accurate head count. Please note we are using a new event registration system. If you encounter any problems please let us know by emailing us at info [at] cliftoninstitute [dot] org.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible. ‘No-shows’ have a significant impact on the success of our programs.
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 Garden Tour
2021-09-11 14:00 - 17:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us on a native garden tour to enjoy late summer blooms and pollinators, and to learn tips on how to establish and maintain your own garden. This program will be co-hosted by Audubon at Home and the Clifton Institute. We will start the tour at Clifton and then drive to two other properties. The Clifton Institute has a mature native plant garden and the other two are in earlier stages of development. The plantings at one property are 100% Fauquier County natives, while the others include some plants from other parts of the state. Attendees will also be able to visit an unplanted Piedmont Prairie at the end of the program. This tour is a great opportunity to learn about how to establish native gardens and to see how beautiful these valuable habitats can be.
Age: Adults and children 12 and up, accompanied by an adult
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change based on weather. We will email registrants closer to the date to confirm the date and time and where we will meet.
What to wear: Outdoor clothing, including waterproof footwear and hats recommended.
What to bring: Binoculars and cameras suggested.
RSVP 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: 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).

Piedmont Wildflower Walk
2021-09-11 10:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Come and see our native grasslands in the Woodcock Fields at their best! These fields are naturally dominated by native plants and they have not been planted with wildflowers. We will look for Gray Goldenrod, Slender Lespedeza, Green Milkweed, Field Thistle, Upland Ironweed, Elliott’s Bluestem and Little Bluestem in the drier areas, and Great Blue Lobelia, New York Ironweed, and Indiangrass in the moister areas. Executive Director Bert Harris will lead this walk through one of our most interesting habitats and teach participants about Piedmont prairies and how to identify grassland plants.
Cost: $10 per person ($8 for Friends of Clifton)
Age: Adults only
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
What to wear: Dress for the weather and wear comfortable clothes you can move in!
What to bring: Water bottle, hat, sunscreen, bug spray, camera, binoculars
Registration REQUIRED. Please note we are using a brand new event registration system. If you encounter any problems please let us know by emailing us at info@cliftoninstitute.org.

Cancellation policy: No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation. If you are registered and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible. ‘No-shows’ can have a significant impact on the success of a program.
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!

Fall Nature School
2021-09-08 09:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Back by popular demand…We’re offering another semester of Nature School this fall! Each class will include a structured learning activity on a particular topic and an exploratory nature walk. For example, in the past we studied vultures, bird eggs and nests, leaf identification, beaver dams, and more. In this series, we will learn about new and different topics as the seasons change, so we invite returning and new Nature School students alike to sign up!
Cost: $80 for the series (includes 8 sessions lasting 3 hours each); $75 for Friends of Clifton
Age: Students in grades K-5. This program is drop-off only.
When: 9am to 12pm, every other Wednesday. Dates for the fall semester include: Sep 8, Sep 22, Oct 6, Oct 20, Nov 3, Nov 17, Dec 1, Dec 15. (Please note: No make-ups will be offered for missed classes.)
Where: The Clifton Institute (6712 Blantyre Rd. in Warrenton)
What to wear: Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
What to bring: Small backpack with the following items: Full water bottle, towel/sheet to sit on, and a mask (required to have, not required to wear unless inside for inclement weather).
Weather policy: Nature School will be held in light rain/snow, but may be postponed or canceled in the event of extreme weather. We will communicate updates with parents via email, the evening before the program date.
Registration REQUIRED: Registration is only available for the entire program series, not for individual sessions.
Cancellation policy: NO REFUNDS will be given upon registrant cancellation. No make-ups or refunds will be offered for individual, missed classes. Refunds will only be given in the event that The Clifton Institute cancels the program.
