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Learn about local wildlife and ecosystems this summer.

Anyone can get an up-close and personal experience in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Snoqualmie Ranger District at North Bend is introducing a new interpretive program near Snoqualmie Pass this summer.

Rangers guide visitors through 90-minute nature walks to Gold Creek Pond in the Gold Creek Valley just east of Snoqualmie Pass summit.

“Participants will enjoy hearing the unusual history of the pond,” said District Ranger Jim Franzel.

Rangers will explain how restoring the pond created a variety of wildlife and natural systems, teach about resident bull trout, beaver and the nature of invasive plants and animals. Visitors can view osprey, beaver, elk and kokanee — a landlocked sockeye salmon species.

Gold Creek Pond holds a Watchable Wildlife designation, indicating the trail accommodates all ages and abilities. The walk follows a one-mile paved loop with no climbing involved.

“We are really excited about this new program that the public can enjoy and learn about an interesting place in the forest,” Franzel said.

The nature walks start at 10 a.m. Saturdays and 1 p.m. Sundays, July 19 through Sept. 14. For more information and to make reservations, call the Forest Service Visitor Information Center 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday and Monday at 425-434-6111. Reservations are required. A $10 donation per person is requested to offset the cost of the program. Visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs for more information, interests and activities.