Echoes & Origins: Camp Many Stories at Glacier National Park

The Glacier Institute in Columbia Falls, Montana, will host a place-based learning experience for K–12 educators and students set amidst the stunning backdrop of the Glacier National Park area. This immersive program invites participants to present, analyze, and interpret stories of this land in a respectful and reflective cultural exchange. Stories shared will range from Grecian, British, and Nordic traditions to the rich Indigenous storytelling of the West, including those of the Salish, Kootenai, and Blackfoot nations. Using a diverse array of primary and secondary sources, supplemented by educational trunks provided by the National Park Service, teachers and students will explore the natural and cultural landscapes of Glacier Park. They will compare and contrast the places they visit with historical and contemporary sources, deepening their understanding of the region and its stories. Through collaborative discussions, participants will gain insights into the unique cultural heritage of each Indigenous nation that contributes to Montana’s rich history. Field journaling will be a key component of the experience, incorporating sketches, source analysis, personal reflections, storytelling activities, and cultural explorations. This practice will help students synthesize their learning and connect more deeply with both place and story.