Field Trips
- Grade Level:
- High School: Ninth Grade through Twelfth Grade
- Subject:
- Science
- State Standards:
- 6th
6-LS1-1, 6-LS1-5
7th
7-LS1-6, 7-LS1-7, 7-LS2-3, 7-LS2-4
High School
BI-LS2-6, BI-LS2-7, BI-LS4-5, BI-ESS2-5
Thermophiles, organisms that survive in extreme heat conditions, are one of the most unique resources found in Hot Springs National Park. Students will use scientific studies and on-site observations to assess the factors that have made Hot Springs’ thermophilic ecosystem a destination for scientists. Students will identify the adaptive features of specific thermophiles, and determine where they are likely to be found in the thermal spring system. Finally, students will use the dispersal patterns of thermophilic communities to hypothesize how the presence of thermophiles offers clues about the variety of thermophilic environments found in the park.
Curriculum
"Thermophile Safari" is ideal for classes learning about aquatic environments and biological adaptations of microorganisms.The High School program adds discussions about possible changes thermophilic communities in response to present-day environmental factors.
During the program, students will use observation skills to find the characteristics of aquatic environments. Students may use testing equipment to collect data on the spring water.
Teachers may request a pre-visit from a ranger. These programs typically introduce the concept of the National Park Service and offer a brief overview of the program concepts.
Teachers can download the materials below for a description of the state standards and program objectives related to this program.
Program Length and Grade Range
This program is designed for 7th grade, but may be used for classes through high school grades. The program lasts 1 to 1.5 hrs.Education Movies
Teachers are encouraged to use the short videos found on our Curriculum Materials page to introduce the basic concepts of the Hot Springs water cycle to your classroom.
Curriculum Materials - Hot Springs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
Program Logistics
In-park programs are typically scheduled for 1.5 hours. The first half-hour in the program time allows flexibility for arrival times and restroom needs. Students are able to use the restrooms either in our basement restrooms or the public restrooms along Bathhouse Row prior to the program beginning.“Thermophile Safari” is an outside program. Students will be walking on pavement during the entirety of the program. Close-toed shoes, sunscreen, water, and appropriate layers are recommended.
See the Hot Springs weather forecast here:7-Day Forecast 34.49N 93.06W (weather.gov)
During the program, students will walk around the Display Spring, the Grand Promenade, and the Tufa Terrace Trail. They will examine thermal springs which are hot to the touch.
After the ranger-led program, groups are welcome to explore other areas in the park.
* Fordyce Bathhouse: Self-guided exhibits, 17-minute park film, ranger led public programs.
* Junior Ranger program: Request books in advance or at the Fordyce front desk.
* Hot Springs Mountain Tower
* Hiking Trails
* Picnic areas at Gulpha Gorge Picnic Area, Hot Springs Mountain, and West Mountain.
Chaperones
Groups can be up to 30 students for each ranger. Having 1 adult chaperone per 10 students is preferred.Chaperones are expected to help group movement, help students make curriculum connections, and help during any emergency events.
Pick Up and Drop Off
For "Thermophile Safari", groups will meet in front of the Fordyce Bathhouse at 369 Central Avenue. *A drop-off area is accessible at the front of the building.
Nearby parking options include both pay and free options at the City of Hot Springs Visitor Center (629 Central Avenue), Parking Garage (274 Exchange Street), and street parking on nearby side streets.
Buses can pick up students in front of the Fordyce at the conclusion of the program.
Materials
Download Thermophile Safari-Middle and High School-Thermal Ecology Program
Optional Lesson Plan Created by Teacher-Ranger-Teacher for High School Unit
Download Thermal Biology in Hot Springs National Park-Microbial Anatomy Lesson Plan
Last updated: March 9, 2025