Family Nature Summits: Black Hills Summit: Full Schedule

Sign-ups will officially open on June 28th at 9 PDT/ 11 CDT/ 12 EDT. Activities without signup limits are available now. Need help? The Summit Handbook and our pick a hike guide are helpful resources! Email [email protected] with additional questions or message us in Sched!

Session availability is subject to change due to weather, availability, and interest. Classes with fewer than 5 participants are subject to cancellation.

7:00pm MDT

Family Friendly- Exploring the grasslands with American Prairie

Sunday August 2, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Event Barn

Join us for a captivating, two-part evening exploring one of the world's most vital yet endangered ecosystems: our grasslands. This interactive program kicks off with kid-friendly activities and education designed to connect younger audiences to nature, followed by an in-depth presentation and conversation tailored for adults and older youth. We will then discuss the global state of grassland ecosystems, the origins of American Prairie, their ecological restoration work (including bison), their partner programs such as science work with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, their Field School, and collaborations with Indigenous communities, and our Wild Sky program that works with neighbors to support conservation practices and habitat.

The kid portion of the evening program will last approximately 20 minutes. We will take a short break to allow families with young children to leave before continuing the presentation.

Sunday August 2, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Event Barn

Evening Program

7:00pm MDT

Family Friendly- An Evening of Native Storytelling

Monday August 3, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Pavillion

Grab a seat by the crackling fire—or pull up a comfortable chair under the pavilion—for an unforgettable evening of Native storytelling. As twilight settles in, we will gather together to experience a rich tapestry of traditional stories brought to life by the grounding heartbeat of the hand drum and the soulful melodies of the flute. It is the perfect way to unwind after dinner, connect with the land, and let yourself be transported by songs and spoken word passed down through generations. This program is designed for all ages and will be hosted at the fire pit alongside the dinner pavilion.

Faculty

Michelle Reed

Faculty

A member of the Lac du Flambeau Band of Ojibwe, Michelle is one of the founders of the Woodland Sky native American Dance Troupe, sharing the culture and dances of Wisconsin’s first peoples. Michelle is also one of the lead female dancers for Brulé, a renowned Native American contemporary... Read More →

Chris Estes

Faculty

Chris is Lakota from the Lower Brulé Sioux Tribe of South Dakota. He is known for his work as a traditional dancer, singer, and performer with Brulé. The Brulé Music Group, based in South Dakota, has traveled the world showcasing contemporary Native American culture, and with millions... Read More →

Monday August 3, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Pavillion

Evening Program

7:00pm MDT

Family Friendly- Relax on the Lawn

Tuesday August 4, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Pavillion

Spend a relaxing evening playing outdoor games, getting your face painted, and chatting with fellow Summiteers. Our formal, family-friendly evening program will take the night off.

Tuesday August 4, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Pavillion

Evening Program

7:00pm MDT

Family Friendly- An Evening of Native Music & Dance

Wednesday August 5, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Pavillion

This dynamic program is designed to inspire, educate, and entertain audiences of all ages. More than just a performance, it is an invitation to celebrate the enduring beauty, resilience, and joy of Indigenous culture. Join faculty members Michelle (Ojibwe), Chris Estes (Kul Wicasa Oyate), and Tony Duncan (Apache) for an evening of music and dance. Michelle and Chris are both lead dancers for Brule, a contemporary Native American music group. This program is designed for all ages.

Faculty

Michelle Reed

Faculty

Chris Estes

Faculty

Tony Duncan

Faculty

Tony is from the Apache Nation and is a Native American Hoop Dancer, Flute Player, and Storyteller. He is a six-time world Champion Hoop Dancer, the Native American Music Awards Artist of the Year, and is featured on a USPS (powwow) Forever Stamp. Tony has toured internationally... Read More →

Wednesday August 5, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Pavillion

Evening Program

Family Nature Summits: Black Hills Summit

7:00pm MDT

7:00pm MDT

Michelle Reed

Chris Estes

7:00pm MDT

7:00pm MDT

Michelle Reed

Chris Estes

Tony Duncan

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