Nature notes club The Larimer County Natural Resources Nature Notes Club is accepting new members. Join current members already journaling in the style of John Muir and Aldo Leopold with Volunteer Naturalist Lisa. The club will have several outings throughout the county’s open space system, allowing members to immerse themselves in the full range and scope of what the Open Spaces have to offer. Club members will receive basic instruction on sketching, ecology, geology, wildlife and other natural sciences. Club members can participate in all session or just a few, whatever fits their schedule. Info/register: contact Heather Lindsey at hlindsey@larimer.org or call 970-679-4489.
Telescope viewing Chamberlin Observatory, 2930 E. Warren Ave., on the University of Denver campus, has astronomy presentations and allows use of the 20-inch Alvan Clark refractor telescope beginning at 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Info: ~rstencel/Chamberlin/, or call 303-871-5172 for reservations.
Mining club The Denver Mining Club is a free (except for purchase of lunch) weekly meeting each Monday except on holidays with a mining-related speaker. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. at the Country Buffet Restaurant, 8100 W. Crestline Ave., Littleton. Purchase of buffet lunch is required.
River table Visit South Suburban Parks and Recreation’s Carson Nature Center in South Platte Park, 3000 W. Carson Drive, the first Saturday of each month and manipulate a river in the 12-foot stainless steel river table. The table is filled with plastic sand and recirculating water powered by pumps that can be controlled by participants. Visitors can create a city landscape and see how natural river actions affect their creation. Naturalists are on hand from 2 to 3 p.m. the first Saturday of each month to guide individuals and families through the free, hands-on experience. Info: 303-730-1022 or .
Science open house The Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, offers a free open house with hands-on science activities from 1 p.m. on the third Sunday of the month. Register: 303-739-2428.
The National Center for Atmospheric Research NCAR’s Mesa Lab, a working research laboratory at the west end of Table Mesa Drive in Boulder, has a free visitor center that is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. The visitor center has a climate exhibit, an eclipse telescope, working supercomputers, a gravity well, and hands on demonstrations of lightning, tornados and fluid dynamics. Info: 303-497-1174 or .
Renewable energy The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory Visitors Center, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Visitors Center features an interactive exhibit hall and DOE public reading room. Info: or 303-384-6565.
Nature/arts seminars Rocky Mountain Nature Association offers field-based, hands-on seminars in Rocky Mountain National Park. Seminar topics include: wildflowers, mammals, birds, cultural history, outdoor skills, photography, painting and writing. There are also Summer programs for kids. Info/register: call the Field Seminar Center at 970-586-3262 or visit .
Nature/science programs The Fort Collins Museum & Discovery Science Center, 200 Matthews St., Fort Collins, has many activities, programs and events for children and adults, ranging from lectures to stargazing to hands-on science labs. Also, the Museum offers free admission every third Sunday of the month. Info: or 970-221-6738.
Seedling classes for preschoolers Seedling Classes offer a hands-on way for young children (ages 3-5, with an adult) to explore the plant world with nature walks, hands-on explorations, stories and projects Tuesdays at 9:30 and 11 a.m. year-round at the Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. Cost is $10 per class for members, $12 per class for non-members. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. Register/info: or 720-865-3580.
Children’s nature programs There are a variety of programs available for children at the Mordecai Children’s Garden at the Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. There are free drop-in programs available every weekday; “Exploration Stations” to visit from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; “Sensory Stations” to visit from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays; a “Stories in Action” program at 10 a.m. Thursdays; and “Family Fun Nights” the fourth Friday of each month April through October. Info: or 720-865-3585.
Children’s nature/science programs The Children’s Museum of Denver, 2121 Children’s Museum Drive, has several science and nature activities for kids. Super Science Sundays at 3 p.m. on Sundays gives children a chance to try their hand at chemistry by mixing up and engineering their own toothpaste. Bubble Brigade at 11 a.m. on Sundays teaches kids about pressure with an explosive science experiment. Info: 303-433-7444 or .
Children’s workshops The Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd., has many children’s workshops and events for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. For a list, call the Children’s Workshop coordinators at 303-370-8225 or 303-370-8347.
Fort Collins Natural Areas activities “Tracks and Trails,” a guide filled with free summer activities sponsored by the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Program, is now available in print and online. Activities continue through October. To pick up a print guide, visit Natural areas trailhead brochure boxes; the City of Fort Collins Natural Resources Department office, 215 N. Mason St. (Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.); City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Program office, 1745 Hoffman Mill Road,(Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.); or visit a Fort Collins-area libraries. To view the guide online, go to . Some activities require registration. To register, visit or call 970-416-2815. Info: .
Birding trail routes on Internet The Colorado Birding Trail has expanded to the west. Colorado’s southwest region, which includes the San Luis Valley, has been incorporated into the Colorado Birding Trail website. This trail features 13 new routes and more than 200 sites that provide wildlife viewers and birders with opportunities to see unique species in some of Colorado’s most spectacular environments. Info: .
Family nature activity Twenty-five Colorado State Parks now have “Family Activity Backpacks” that can be checked out free of charge at the park visitor center or office for day use. The backpacks include: two large bug boxes, magnifiers, various guide books (covering insects, birds, wildflowers and pond or tree life depending on the park), binoculars and a nature journal. Backpacks can be found at the following state parks: Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area; Barr Lake State Park; Boyd Lake State Park; Castlewood Canyon State Park; Cheyenne Mountain State Park; Crawford State Park; Eldorado Canyon State Park; Golden Gate Canyon State Park; Highline Lake State Park; James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park; Lathrop State Park; Lake Pueblo State Park; Lory State Park; Mancos State Park; Mueller State Park; North Sterling State Park; Ridgway State Park; Rifle Gap State Park (and Rifle Falls); St. Vrain State Park; Stagecoach State Park; Steamboat Lake State Park; Sylvan Lake State Park; Trinidad Lake State Park; Vega State Park; and Yampa River State Park. Info: .
Nature programs The Starsmore Discovery Center, at the entrance of North Cheyenne Canon at 2120 S. Cheyenne Road, has guided “wildlife tracks and signs” walks at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays on the Columbine Trail. Info: 719-385-6086.
Kids nature programs Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora, offers a free program, “Star K Kids,” for children ages 5 and under every Thursday at 9:30 and 11 a.m. with puppets, stories, activities and outdoor exploration. Info: 303-739-2428 or .
Nature activities South Suburban Parks and Recreation naturalists lead many outdoor, nature and environmentally related activities and events at Carson Nature Center, 3000 W. Carson Drive, Littleton. For a list of events, visit or call 303-730-1022.
Nocturnal nature program “Nature at Night,” a free program, is at 6:30 p.m. the third Friday of each month at Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora. Info/register: 303-739-2428.
Nature programs The Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora, offers a variety of nature programs for children and adults. For a list of events, call 303-739-2428 or visit .
Wildlife refuge programs The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, East 56th Avenue at Havana Street, is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. There are various exhibits at the Visitor Center, and free nature programs and refuge tours. Info: 303-289-0930 for times and reservations, or visit .
Natural history seminars The Rocky Mountain Nature Association offers a series of outdoor seminars on natural history topics in Rocky Mountain National Park. Info: 970-586-3262 or .
Astronomy events Fiske Planetarium, on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, has a variety of astronomy shows, talks, and family matinees. The evening talks and shows are $7 adults, $5 students with valid I.D., and $3.50 for children and seniors. Saturday family shows are $6 adults, $3.50 children and seniors. Laser shows are $7. Info: 303-492-5002, or e-mail fiske@colorado.edu.
Public viewing at observatory The Sommers-Bausch Observatory on the University of Colorado Boulder campus is open to the public for stargazing (weather permitting) every Friday at 8 p.m. Info: 303-492-6732 or .
Junior naturalist program Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton, offers a “junior naturalist” program for children. Kids ages 7-12 will use their artistic skills and gain knowledge of the outdoors in this program. Pick up a Junior Naturalist booklet at the visitor center. Kids must participate in at least two naturalist-led programs and complete all activities in the booklet to earn a certificate of completion and an official Junior Naturalist Patch. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Register: 303-973-3959.
Junior rangers program Chatfield State Park and the Audubon Society of Greater Denver are offering a joint Junior Ranger program Wednesdays in August. Two of the four programs will be held at Chatfield State Park, the other two will be at the Discovery Center, just south of the park off Waterton Canyon Road. The programs are free with purchase of a valid State Parks pass. Registration is recommended. Register: 303-979-9115 or e-mail chatfieldgoco@gmail.com.
Junior rangers program Cherry Creek State Park, 4201 S. Parker Road, Aurora, is offering a Junior Ranger program for kids ages 8-11 on Fridays July 29 and Aug. 5. The Junior Ranger program teaches children about park ranger responsibilities as stewards of the park and about the natural wonders found at Cherry Creek State Park. Info: call Ranger Karen at 303-690-1166, ext. 6566 or e-mail cherry.creek.intero@state.co.us.
Junior Ranger programs The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, in conjunction with the Salida and Buena Vista Summer Recreation Programs, is offering a series of free Junior Ranger programs for kids ages 5-11. Salida’s Junior Ranger programs will be at 10 a.m. Wednesdays at Riverside Park in Salida. Buena Vista’s Junior Ranger programs will be at 1 p.m. Thursdays at the Community Center on East Main St. in Buena Vista. Info: 719-539-7289.
Junior rangers program A “Junior Ranger” program for children continues through July at Jackson Lake State Park, 26363 County Road 3, Orchard. Children may earn the Junior Ranger badge by attending 10 or more interpretive programs or by completing the independent study course. Both require completion of a scavenger hunt in the park. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: Contact Ranger Martin for details at 970-645-2551 or jackson.lake@state.co.us.
Junior rangers program Rifle Falls State Park, 5775 Hwy. 325, Rifle is offering a Junior Ranger program for children ages 6-12 who want to discover the park’s wildlife, geology, ecosystems, history and environment through the eyes of a ranger. Participants can pick up a Junior Ranger activity book in the Rifle Falls campground entrance station on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Hours may vary. Participants should complete the activity book and return it to the campground entrance station to receive a signature noting completion and a Junior Ranger badge. Participants may also have their picture taken for display at the Rifle Gap Visitor center once a photo release form is signed. Info: 970-625-1607 or rifle.gap.park@state.co.us.
Junior rangers program The Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora, offers a free junior rangers program for kids ages 6-12 at 1:30 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month. Registration is required! For information or to register, call 303-739-2428.
Self-guided junior ranger program A self-guided Junior Ranger Program is offered by the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs. Cost is $2. Info: 719-634-6666 or .
Self-guided junior ranger program North Cheyenne Canon Park, is offering a self-guided junior ranger program. Young rangers between the ages of 8 and 12 can earn “Steward Level” badges using Junior Ranger booklets which may be picked up from either the Starsmore Discovery Center, at the entrance of North Cheyenne Canon, 2120 S. Cheyenne Road, (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday) or at the Helen Hunt Falls Visitor Center, 4075 N. Cheyenne Canon Road,(9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Sundays). Young Rangers receive a booklet, pencil, patch and certificate of completion. Cost is $5 per person. Info: 719-385-6086 or .
Junior ranger activity Colorado National Monument in Fruita is unveiling a new Junior Ranger activity booklet for kids ages 5-12. The booklet is available at the CNM Visitor Center. Once kids have completed the required activities (usually takes 1 1/2 to 2 hours to complete), they can return to the visitor center where a park ranger reviews their work and awards them an official Junior Ranger badge and certificate. Info: 970-858-3617 or .
Outdoor recreation program for teens The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is offering a variety of outdoor recreation activities for teens ages 12-17 on Fridays throughout summer. Programs include: horseback riding, geo-caching with a map and compass, hot springs swimming and river rafting. Registration is required; a small activity fee may be charged. Transportation from the AHRA Visitor Center in Salida will be provided. Register: 719-539-7289.
Green Building Group discussion group “Talking Green,” a Steamboat Springs Green Building Group, meets for educational discussions at 5:30 p.m. the 4th Tuesday of every month at Harwigs/L’Apogee, 911 Lincoln Ave. Info: 970-879-7529.
Kids nature program “Animal Art and Awesome Activities,” an animal-related art and activity program for kids ages 6-10, is from 10 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday of each month at the Majestic View Nature Center, 7030 Garrison St., Arvada. Cost is $10/class. Register: 720-898-7405.
Kids nature program “Nature Adventures,” a free parent/child program for kids ages 4-6 and parents, is at 11 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month at the Majestic View Nature Center, 7030 Garrison St., Arvada. The program includes stories and nature activities, crafts, short hikes and games. Register: 720-898-7405.
Mineral group The Rocky Mountain Micromineral Association, a new mineral group, will meet from 2 to 4 p.m. the second Sunday of each month at the Colorado School of Mines Museum. The group is informal, with no dues, officers or newsletter. Microscopes and free microminerals are available at the meetings. Info: contact Richard Parsons, 303-838-8859 or Richard.parsons@att.net.
Self-guided homestead tours Castlewood Canyon State Park, 2989 S. Highway 83, Franktown, has a new one-fourth-mile trail and self-guided booklet that takes visitors on a tour of Park’s old homestead and its out-buildings. The trail booklet is available at the homestead and the Visitor Center. Info: 303-688-5242.
GPS, map and compass class On the second Friday of selected months (subject to staff availability), there are free USGS GPS, Map and compass classes at Building 810, Federal Center, Lakewood. Class schedule is: “Map and Compass” sessions are from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and “Using GPS and Topo Maps” sessions are from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Info/register: 303-202-4689 or e-mail gpsworkshops@usgs.gov, or visit .
Guided walks Garden of the Gods Park, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs, offers free daily guided walks at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Meet at the north main parking lot trail head. Take water, and wear sturdy shoes and a jacket. Info: 719-634-6666.
Roxborough Ride Naturalist-guided tours in a seven-passenger golf cart around the Fountain Valley Trail are offered at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays in Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Reservations are required for the rides; donations are accepted for vehicle maintenance. Register: 303-973-3959.
Native plant tours The Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St., offers “Rocky Mountain Native Plant Tours” from May through October. The tours can be schedules for groups of 10 or more with three-weeks advance notice. Drop-in tours are available Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. (included with admission, dependent on guide availability). Info: 720-865-3585.
Guided birdwalks Boyd Lake State Park, 3720 N. County Road 11-C, Loveland, offers a family-friendly, guided birdwalk at 9 a.m. Sundays through Labor Day weekend at the Heinricy parking area southwest of the Cottonwood Campground, where the Loveland Recreational Trail. Take binoculars, drinking water and a bird book. An $8 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 970-669-1739, boyd.lake@state.co.us, or .
Eagle viewing tours View nesting eagles by taking a 2.5-mile walk to the gazebo at Barr Lake State Park, 13401 Picadilly Road, Brighton. If you cannot make the walk, the “Eagle Express” runs on Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon through September. Reservations are strongly recommended. Register: 303-659-6005 or .
Guided wildflower tours The Denver Botanic Gardens is offering guided wildflower tours on Mount Goliath will be Tuesdays, Thursdays and some Saturdays through early August. Hikes begin at 9 a.m. Allow time to travel to the meeting location. Directions and instructions are available upon registration. Tours are open to adults and children ages 10 and older; reservations are required and must be made at least a week in advance. Register/info: 720-865-3585 or .
Kids nature programs Highline Lake State Park, 1800 11.8 Road, Loma, is inviting kids age 8-12 to get outdoors with the “Summer of Outdoor Fun” programs offered Wednesdays through Aug. 3. There will be a different outdoor activity each week. A few of the activities and programs planned include: a star party; “Leave No Trace” ethics; owls and their nests; how to keep bears away from your campsite; all abut bats; Highline Lake’s Junior Ranger program; water ecology; and crafts. Dates, times and programs vary; check the Colorado State Parks calendar of events at for specific information. Choose the calendar link or choose Highline Lake; the activity calendar is on the right side of the Highline Lake home page. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 970-858-7208 or highline.park@state.co.us.
Weekly nature program Naturalists lead a “bat walk” at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays through the end of August at Garden of the Gods Park. Meet in the Red Rocks Room of Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs. Reservations are required. Register: 719-219-0108. Info: 719-634-6666 or .
Weekly nature program Campfire programs are offered every Saturday evening during summer at Mancos State Park, 42545 County Road N, Mancos. Meet at the park amphitheater in the main campground. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 970-882-2213, or mancos.park@state.co.us.
Weekly nature/fitness walk Take a fitness walk at 9 a.m. Wednesdays year-round at Garden of the Gods Park. Meet in the lower foyer of the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs. Reservations are required. Register: 719-219-0108. Info: 719-634-6666 or .
Weekly family-friendly nature programs James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park, 361 – 32 Road, Grand Junction, offers weekly family-friendly nature programs. “Friday Fruita Family Nights,” at 8 p.m. Fridays at the Fruita Section of the park and explores the natural world surrounding the park and the Colorado River; “Hanging with the Family in the Canyon” is at 8 p.m. Saturdays at the Island Acres Section of the park; and “Sunday Pack-Up Fun Day” is at 10 a.m. Sundays at the Island Acres Section of the park. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 970-858-9188, colorado.river.park@state.co.us or .
Naturalist-led hikes/walks Schedule your own personal guided hike/walk with a park naturalist from 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays and Sundays through Labor Day at Navajo State Park, 1526 County Road 982, Arboles. With a choice of seven trails, the park naturalist can help tailor a guided experience to your special interests and activity level. Twenty-four hour advanced notice is required. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info/register: 970-883-2208.
Energy Master program Five Colorado State University Extension offices across the state are offering a new Colorado Energy Master program to educate Coloradans and support volunteers interested in energy issues. Participants can take one or more 3-week courses on Energy and the Environment, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Courses include hands-on learning experiences and short field trips. Each course offers Continuing Education credits through both the Green Building Certification Institute and the Colorado Real Estate Commission. spiring Colorado Energy Masters take all three courses at a reduced cost and can volunteer in a number of ways – from conducting basic home energy assessments to educating neighbors and friends. Info: visit or contact Karen Crumbaker at 970-498-6003.
TODAY
Family mystery hike This naturalist-led hike challenges families to solve a puzzle, riddle or mystery as they walk and search for hidden clues along a one-mile, easy trail. Appropriate for ages 5 and up. Meet at 1 p.m. at the Visitor Center in Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info/register: 719-576-2016.
Ant program Bret Tennis will give a presentation on honey ants at 11:30 a.m. in the Red Rocks Room at Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs. Info: 719-634-6666 or .
Guided hike “Curiouser and Curiouser: A Hike in Search of the Unusual,” a free, guided hike on the Towhee Trail in search of lichens, mountain mahogany, interesting grasses and geology, will be from 9 to 11 a.m. at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. Directions: Soapstone Prairie is 25 miles north of Fort Collins. From Fort Collins, take Hwy. 1/ Terry Lake Road to County Road 15 north (towards Waverly). From County Road 15, turn north onto Rawhide Flats Road and continue north to the entrance station. Meet in the north parking lot. The 3-mile hike is rated “moderate.” Info: 970-416-2815 or naturalareas@fcgov.com.
MONDAY
Speed program “I Didn’t Know I Could Move That Fast!” Play Hyper Dash – a game that challenges your brain and your reflexes and teaches participants “fast” facts, appropriate for kids in grades 6-12, will be at 5 p.m. at Anythink Perl Mach, 7911 Hilltop Circle, Denver. Register/info: 303-428-3576 or .
Park ecosystem hike Native Plant Naturalists Lucy Bell and Pat Cooper will lead a hike exploring the montane shrubland at 9 a.m. in Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Meet at the Visitor Center. Info/register: 719-576-2016.
TUESDAY
Evening hike Junior Ranger program: Take an evening hike from 6 to 8 p.m. in Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs. Meet at the Visitor Center parking lot. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info/register: 719-576-2016.
Family discovery day “Discovery Day: Top of the World,” an interactive environmental education program for families, features activities including: hands-on education stations, arts and crafts, and a reading/puppet corner. Education Rangers are also on available to answer visitor questions. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Moraine Park Visitor Center in Rocky Mountain National Park, on Bear Lake Road, 1.5 miles from the Beaver Meadows Entrance. A $20 seven-day pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 970-586-1206.
“Junior Naturalist” program “Junior Naturalist: Gee Wiz, Geology,” a naturalist-guided program for kids in second through sixth grade, will be at 1 p.m. at Mueller State Park, 21045 State Hwy. 67, Divide. Stop by the Visitor Center to pick up a Junior Naturalist booklet. Participation in at least two naturalist-led programs and completion of the booklet earns a Junior Naturalist patch. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 719-687-2366 or .
Night-time nature program/hike Join a Fish and Wildlife Service biologist to learn about prairie wildlife and search for nocturnal animals using a spotlight on a free, 1 to 2-mile, easy hike at 7:30 p.m. in Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. Directions: Soapstone Prairie is 25 miles north of Fort Collins. From Fort Collins, take Hwy. 1/ Terry Lake Road to County Road 15 north (towards Waverly). From County Road 15, turn north onto Rawhide Flats Road and continue north to the entrance station. Meet in the south parking lot. Register: 970-416-2815 or (79902-02).
“Tween” camp “AWQUA Tween Camp at Aurora Reservoir,” a day camp for ages 8-12, will be from 9 a.m. to noon July 26-29 at Aurora Reservoir, 5800 S. Powhaton Road. Cost is $50 per child. Register: go to then “classes.” Info: 303-739-2428.
WEDNESDAY
Environmentally-friendly cleaning program “Healthy Cleaners Class,” a free program about how to make non-toxic household cleaners, will be at 6:30 p.m. at Nature and Raptor Center of Pueblo, 5200 Nature Center Road, Pueblo. Attendees will make and take home a free sample cleaner and will receive many healthy cleaner recipes. Register: 719-549-2414.
“Adventure Cub” program “Adventure Cub: Sun Prints,” a naturalist-guided program for kids in preschool through first grade, will be at 10 a.m. at Mueller State Park, 21045 State Hwy. 67, Divide. Stop by the Visitor Center to pick up an Adventure Club booklet. Participation in at least one naturalist-led program and partial completion of the booklet earns an Adventure Cub button. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 719-687-2366 or .
THURSDAY
Space program “60 Minutes in Space,” a free event, will be at 7 p.m. in the Gates Planetarium at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. Go “behind the stories” in space science using the best images and animation available to help understand new developments. Seating is limited to first come, first served. Info: of 303-370-6000.
Family-friendly nature program “Survivor – The Wildlife Edition,” a free program designed for kids and their parent to investigate the many tools that animals have to survive in the wild, followed by a short, 2 to 3-mile easy hike, will be at 4 p.m. at Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Open Space, located on Carpenter Road/ County Road32, approximately one mile west of I-25, or two miles east of Timberline on the north side of Carpenter Road. Meet at the program shelter; take a sack lunch to enjoy after the program, if desired. Info: 970-416-2815 or naturalareas@fcgov.com.
Sustainability program Denver’s Housing Authority is hosting a free “lunch-n-learn” program from 12:11 to 12:49 p.m. at the City Administration Building, 30 S. Nevada Ave., Ste. 102, Colorado Springs. Ryan Tobin of DHA will share the sustainability components and finance mechanisms for several of DHA’s more recent affordable housing projects. Take a sack lunch if desired. Info: contact Carrie McCausland at 719-385-2746 or cmccausland@springsgov.com.
Kids nature program “The Antics of Ants!” a program with hands-on activities, crafts, stories and a short hike, for 3-5 year-olds and their guardians, will be at 9:30 a.m. in Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs. Meet at Camper Services. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info/register: 719-576-2016.
FRIDAY
Eagle program “Bald Eagles,” a free program, will be at 11 a.m. in Stagecoach State Park, 25500 Routt County Road 14, Oak Creek. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: stagecoach.park@state.co.us, 970-736-2436, or .
Animal track program “Whose Track is That?” a program teaching tips and techniques for identifying animal tracks and investigating animal movements, will be at 8 p.m. at Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info/register: 719-576-2016.
Birdwatching program “Birdwatching 101,” a free program about birding, with a chance to use a spotting scope, will be at 2 p.m. in Stagecoach State Park, 25500 Routt County Road 14, Oak Creek. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: stagecoach.park@state.co.us, 970-736-2436, or .
SATURDAY
Kids campfire program “Edible Fires,” a hands-on program where kids can build their own pretend campfire out of candy and learn about fire safety and efficiency, will be at 3:30 p.m. at the Marina Porch in Stagecoach State Park, 25500 Routt County Road 14, Oak Creek. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: stagecoach.park@state.co.us, 970-736-2436, or .
Family mystery hike A “Family Mystery hike, which challenges families to solve a riddle while looking for hidden clues on a hike, will be at 10:30 a.m. in Stagecoach State Park, 25500 Routt County Road 14, Oak Creek. Meet at the Marina Porch; the hike is rated “moderate.” A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: stagecoach.park@state.co.us, 970-736-2436, or .
Nature craft program “Gyotaku Fish Printing,” a craft program teaching this ancient art by painting fish replicas, will be at 1 p.m. at the Marina Porch in Stagecoach State Park, 25500 Routt County Road 14, Oak Creek. Participants will be able to take a print home. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: stagecoach.park@state.co.us, 970-736-2436, or .
Snake safety program A program on snake safety, led by members from the Morgan County Ambulance, will be at 7 p.m. at the Cove Amphitheater at Jackson Lake State Park, 26363 County Road 3, Orchard. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 970-645-2551, Jackson.lake@state.co.us or %20lake%20main.aspx.
Squirrel program “The Purpose of a Squirrel,” a free family-friendly program, will be at 8 p.m. at the campfire ring in the Cottonwood Campground between loops A and B at Boyd Lake State Park, 3720 N. County Road 11-C, Loveland. Take a chair or blanket to sit on. An $8 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 970-669-1739, boyd.lake@state.co.us, or .
Birds of Prey day The Birds of Prey Foundation, an organization based in Broomfield that helps rehabilitate and release raptors into the wild, will host a program featuring live birds and a discussion about how raptors contribute to the ecology and natural history of Estes Park at 2 p.m. at the Estes Park Museum, 200 Fourth St. Cost is $5 per person for youth and adults (free for children under 10 years of age) or $15 for a family. Info: 970-586-6256 or .
Kids nature program “Prairie Animals,” a program with hands-on activities, for kids ages 4-8, accompanied by a guardian, will be at 10 a.m. at the Northern Plains Amphitheater in Lake Pueblo State Park, 640 Pueblo Reservoir Road. Dress in weather-appropriate clothing, take water, sunscreen and bug spray. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 719-561-9320, or e-mail lake.pueblo.park@state.co.us.
Junior Ranger program Pick up a Junior Ranger Training Booklet at the Visitor Center or Camper Services in Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs, and take the class and/or complete the booklet to earn a Junior Ranger badge and/or colorful patch depending on levels finished. Meet at Camper Services at 10 a.m. for a Junior Ranger program. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info/register: 719-576-2016.
Family mystery hike This naturalist-led hike challenges families to solve a puzzle, riddle or mystery as they walk and search for hidden clues along a one-mile, easy trail. Appropriate for ages 5 and up. Meet at 2 p.m. at the Visitor Center in Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info/register: 719-576-2016.
Prairie dog program “Conversation with a Prairie Dog,” a program exploring life in a prairie dog colony, will be at 7 p.m. at Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs. A $7 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info/register: 719-576-2016.
Natural area program “What’s So Special About Soapstone,” a free program exploring the natural environment, archaeology and history of Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. Meet at 9 a.m. at the north parking lot. Soapstone Prairie is 25 miles north of Fort Collins. From Fort Collins, take Hwy. 1/ Terry Lake Road to County Road 15 north (towards Waverly). From County Road 15, turn north onto Rawhide Flats Road and continue north to the entrance station. Info: 970-416-2815 or e-mail naturalareas@fcgov.com.
River program “Wade the River,” a free event where participants wade the Cache la Poudre River with dip nets to see what they can find; and biologists on-hand to identify finds, will be from 1 to 5 p.m. at Lee Martinez Park, 600 N. Sherwood St., Fort Collins. Take your own towels, sun and mosquito protection; and wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. All equipment will be provided. Info: naturalareas@fcgov.com or 970-416-2815.
Bear program “Bear Necessities,” a presentation by former Veterinarian and County Naturalist Bob, will be at 10 a.m. at the Hermit’s Cabin at Hermit Park Open Space, located southeast of the town of Estes off Hwy. 36. A $6 per vehicle entrance permit is required. Info: contact Heather at 970-679-4489.
Native plants family workshop Take a tour of some of the Denver Botanic Garden’s native plant collections and discover why these plants call Colorado home and how they are beneficial to the environment. Meet at 10 a.m. in the Hibiscus Classroom at the Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. Price is $25 for members for one adult/child combination; $30 nonmembers for one adult/child combination. Additional adults or children can attend for $10 each for members, $12 each for nonmembers. Register/info: or 720-865-3585.
July 31
Natural area program “What’s So Special About Soapstone,” a free program exploring the natural environment, archaeology and history of Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. Meet at 11 a.m. at the north parking lot. Soapstone Prairie is 25 miles north of Fort Collins. From Fort Collins, take Hwy. 1/ Terry Lake Road to County Road 15 north (towards Waverly). From County Road 15, turn north onto Rawhide Flats Road and continue north to the entrance station. Info: 970-416-2815 or e-mail naturalareas@fcgov.com.
Native plants family workshop Take a tour of some of the Denver Botanic Garden’s native plant collections and discover why these plants call Colorado home and how they are beneficial to the environment. Meet at 2 p.m. in the Hibiscus Classroom at the Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. Price is $25 for members for one adult/child combination; $30 nonmembers for one adult/child combination. Additional adults or children can attend for $10 each for members, $12 each for nonmembers. Register/info: or 720-865-3585.
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To publicize upcoming science events geared toward and open to the public, mail details at least two weeks in advance to Andrea Labak, Scientifically Speaking, The Denver Post, City Desk, 101 W. Colfax Ave., Suite 600, Denver, CO 80202, or e-mail Scispeak@denverpost.com.
