In this edition of Inside the Parks: Conversations with America’s Park Rangers, we sat down with Hope Kaliski, a ranger working in the education programme in the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. With a background in Learning Sciences, Hope's passion for environmental education drives her commitment to connecting with visitors and fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Join us as we explore Hope’s journey to becoming a ranger, her favourite aspects of the North Cascades, and the memorable experiences that have shaped her role. Join us as we uncover the stories and insights that make this park a captivating destination through Hope’s perspective.
Q: Could you share your background and what inspired you to become a park ranger?
A: I started my journey prior to graduating, I had majored in something called Learning Sciences, which is the science of how people learn. When I had graduated from that, I really wanted to do things within the field of environmental education that pointed me in a few different directions. And eventually I ended up working in a small town near North Cascades National Park, maybe like an hour ish from the visitor centre, and really fell in love with that region. I just wanted to stick around, so I applied to this position. And I've been in this role for about one, one and a half years.
Q: What do you appreciate most about your national park?
A: Coming from the flatlands of Chicago, I truly enjoy the dynamic landscape of the Cascades. It's inspiring to be surrounded by mountains, and the changes in elevation create breathtaking views. Driving along Highway 20, you get to see all that gorgeous elevation changes, the way the ecosystem changes. We move up in elevation, all that jazz.
Q: Outside of the Cascades, what is your favourite national park, and what makes it so special to you?
A: I have lots of memories tied to the Smokies, I went out there a lot as a youth. In more recent years, I really enjoy Zion. I think that is another very gorgeous ecosystem that has so many different things going on. I really like the park shuttle to get around, and all the different things the park offers.
Q: Can you describe a particularly memorable experience you’ve had as a park ranger?
A: I work within the education program at North Cascades, and one of my favourite things is a programme we have with local fifth graders. We visit them in the fall and spring, and they come out to us in the fall too.
This year, we did a field trip during salmon spawning season. We took them to the Skagit River, where they could observe the pink salmon. There was a lot of salmon actively rotting, which is, if you haven't experienced it, a very pungent smell. When we went back to visit them in the spring, they had all remembered that moment, highlighting the magical connections that nature can foster in young minds.
I love those “aha” moments in nature, they’re just so great to have, especially with youth. It’s so cool and magical and important for them to grow and care for the outdoors and those places that are in their backyard.
Q: What has been your favourite wildlife encounter while working with the National Park Service?
A: Up in the higher elevation, you can see a lot of pikas and mountain goats. I love every hike I do, where you can hear the pikas. They have a high pitched beak noise that they make. I love hearing them when I am wandering through. They’re a very small cute animal, and it’s so endearing to see them out and around, just trotting around, gathering up wildflowers and grass amongst the rocks.
I still haven't seen a bear. We have a very healthy population of black bears in the National Park, so I’m hoping one day!
Q: When do you believe is the best time to visit your park?
A: Most visitors come in summer when the snow melts and higher elevations are accessible. However, fall is also beautiful, with fewer crowds and stunning scenery, it’s just a little rainier, which is kind of an exception out here.
Q: What is the essential item you recommend visitors bring when exploring your park?
A: Definitely rain jackets. But I'll say, like along with water, of course, drinking water, just like things, whatever you need to help you go up and down.
Q: What advice would you give to someone visiting your park for the very first time?
A: Be aware that the North Cascades is truly a wilderness park. It requires more planning and preparation than other parks. If you're hiking, be ready for elevation changes and to navigate the terrain.
Q: Are there any lesser-known spots or trails in your park that you would recommend to visitors?
A: I really enjoy the trails around the Ross Lake area. While they can be busy, but there are opportunities to climb higher and escape the crowds. The trails are more level and provide a cooler, shaded experience, which is perfect on hot days.
Q: Are there any local events or ranger programs that visitors should be aware of?
A: Our visitor centre operates from mid-May to September, during which we offer daily ranger talks, on the rangers topic of choice, and junior ranger programs. These events are great for learning and engaging with park themes.
Q: What are some of your favourite activities to enjoy in the park throughout different seasons?
A: I love hiking and canoeing in the summer! In winter, backcountry skiing is popular, though it requires a lot of skill. During the fall and spring, I make sure to get outdoors even when it's rainy, often biking or foraging.
Q: What keeps you passionate about your work as a park ranger?
A: The landscape I work in inspires me daily. Exploring the park and the healing qualities of time spent outdoors are invaluable. I also cherish the interactions with visitors and the interesting questions they ask about the flora and fauna.
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