Medicinal Herb Hike with Mary O'Brien

Only one of two times this summer to catch our absolute expert, Mary O'Brien leading a hike specifically about Medicinal Plants and uses. A long-term Naturalist for Yampatika who brings her expertise to her hikes through her practice of medicinal uses, experience with growing medicinal herbs, and creating herbal products/medicines.

About the Naturalist, Mary O'Brien has been studying and practicing herbal medicine since 1987. A Colorado native, she has lived in Steamboat Springs for over 20 years, where she teaches herbal medicine and makes herbal products, and maintains a medicinal garden for the Yampa River Botanic Park. Her journey has also led her to study the medicine wheel, sacred plant medicine, massage therapy, energy work, and permaculture. Through her teaching, she emphasizes the use of native, non-native, and locally grown plants for plant-based self-care and incorporates permaculture principles. She has studied with many renowned teachers including Rosemary Gladstar, Bridgitte Mars, Stephen Buhner, and Micheal Moore, and completed the Chartered Herbalist program with Dominion Herbal College.

Important details: AGES 18+

LOCATION TO BE ANNOUNCED- we will likely select a location a week before the program- this is to ensure the plants we are looking for are out and observable!

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 you 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 also bring your waterproof jacket- weather changes quickly, make sure to come for cooler/wet weather

If you have additional questions or need more information, please email hailey@yampatika.org or call the office at (970) 871-9151