"Rockstar" geologist will pop up at Dry Falls this Sunday

The geologist Nick Zentner will be at Dry Falls State Park Visitor Center this coming Sunday, March 1 at 1 p.m. in one of his "pop up" events, where the popular prof just shows up to talk with the geologically curious.

If you're me, that sounds like a perfect Sunday afternoon. (If you're new here, this is one of the most interesting geological areas on the planet.)

Zentner, the "Science Outreach and Education Coordinator" at Central Washington University, shares his knowledge in entertaining ways on his PBS show "Nick on the Rocks" and is widely shared on Youtube.

Zentner, in his Youtube announcement about this popup (below) was expecting to just use the parking lot, not the closed visitor center, but State Parks Interpretive Specialist 2 David E. McWalter says the VC will be open for the folks out to visit with Zentner.

When he found out (a day after our print deadline, sorry) McWalter sent an email out to local media, chambers and others to let us know.

"Folks are encouraged to bring a folding chair to enjoy a short lecture about Ice Age Flood Geology and learn about the unique features found at Dry Falls Heritage Area!" wrote McWalter. "The Dry Falls Visitor Center will be OPEN for the day. Interpretive Staff will be available for questions and information. We have been busy packing to move for the BIG renovation/rehabilitation project, starting this Spring 2026."

McWalter also noted that the "last time Nick Zentner did a Pop-Up Geology event ... over 80 people showed up" on New Year's Eve in 2023 from as far away as Portland, Oregon.