Lava, Landslides, Lakes and Quakes Geology Workshop (August 19-24, 2026)

This 5-night workshop led by Ian Madin, retired Chief Scientist at Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries and Geologic Society of America Fellow, will dive deep into the dramatic landscape surrounding PLAYA and reveal the geologic history and forces that shaped it. Daily field trips to places like Crack-in-the-Ground, Fremont Point, Slide Lakes, Paisley Cave and the Chewaucan River will provide first hand experience with the rocks, processes and landforms. Participants will learn to recognize a wide range of volcanic rocks, stand on active earthquake faults that are still building the landscape, and see the evidence of enormous landslides and ice-age lakes. Evening presentations will use dramatic 3D graphics and imagery to explore the wider context of Oregon geology and to show the connection between landscapes and the rocks and forces behind them. Instruction will be accessible to anyone, with in depth content available for those with more geologic background. Participants will receive a detailed illustrated field trip guide.

This workshop will provide a field-based exploration of the rocks and landforms that make up the landscape surrounding PLAYA. Attendees will learn how to recognize various types of volcanic rock, and understand their varied origins. They will learn how to look at the landscape analytically to understand the processes that shape it. They will learn how to view and interpret detailed 3D topographic imagery to understand geologic features that cannot be encompassed in the field. They will learn about the 20 million year geologic history of the area.

🦅 Extend your stay at PLAYA by pairing this Workshop with the August 13-16 Self-Directed Residency or August 27-31 Self-Directed Residency and stay at PLAYA for free the nights in between (a stay from August 13-24, or August 19-31).

Click each cabin below for the full workshop agenda and details, and cabin descriptions.

Cancellation policy: $50 cancellation fee. Six or less days before arrival NO refund; seven-14 days before arrival 50% refund; 15-28 days before 75% refund.