2008 Course Descriptions

Dig into the geologic history of the Rocky Mountains! Young rock hounds gain an appreciation for our local past while exploring the rock cycle, mountain-building, volcanoes, glaciers and ancient life forms.

Edwards: Drop-off and pick-up at Berry Creek Middle School
Eagle: Drop-off and pick-up at Brush Creek Pavilion Studio

Have fun exploring colors in nature by investigating camouflage patterns in mammals, birds, fish and insects.

Nature’s most-famous architect – the beaver – has much to teach us about living in the wild. Get ready to explore how beavers build lodges and dams, how birds make nests, how spiders spin webs, how bees construct hives and more! You’ll also discover how nature’s builders influence human engineering.

Explore the world of things with wings as you peer into the lives of birds, butterflies, bees, bugs and bats. Lean what makes each of these winged creatures such an amazing addition to the Rocky Mountain ecosystem.

Camouflage isn’t the only way that animals adapt to the challenges of living. Find out how bald eagles catch their prey, get up close and personal with some of the valley’s best beaver habitat, and search for crafty insects hidden in wildflowers as we explore the amazing diversity of animal adaptations!

Through insect eyes, explore art while discovering the lifecycles and habits of these fascinating six-legged creatures!

Geology and story-telling join forces in this fascinating week of landform investigations. What does the earth’s surface tell us about the past, and what stories have different cultures told about the Earth? Explore glaciers, mountain-building, fossils, petroglyphs and more.

Discover the diverse and unique forest types of Colorado right here in your own backyard. You’ll explore a new one every day while learning about the ‘giants’ who inhabit these magical places. You’ll also learn from local experts how forests were used in the past and how they are used today.

What would you do if you were stranded in the wilderness without food, water or shelter? Learn how to build shelters, locate water, identify edible plants, make cordage and many other skills crucial to surviving the wild! Program concludes with an exciting one-night camping trip.

Learn about the similarities of Chihuahua, Mexico, and the Eagle River Watershed during this weeklong adventure. You'll explore trails and play games while discovering the mysteries of animals, insects, and trees. By the end of the week, you'll create bilingual stories that reflect what you've learned! Please call Sarah Gobbs-Hill for more information: 970-827-9725

Mining, homesteading, exploration and adventure: Colorado’s history is unforgettable. Get to know the men and women who came out West and forged a new life. We’ll investigate how our local mountain environment reflects their legacy.

Hit the trail for a day of fun-tastic ecological discoveries. You'll develop a love of exploring the natural world while building teamwork skills on moderate hikes to unforgettable destinations.

Get ready to explore the local ecology of the Rocky Mountains on this exciting overnight adventure based of a backcountry hut near Vail Pass. Learn how to navigate your way using a map and compass, investigate nocturnal wildlife, take an unforgettable hike to a nearby waterfall, participate in team-building activities and sharpen your naturalist skills on this thrilling quest.

Based out of backcountry hut near Tennessee pass, this course brings together young explores to discovery wildlife habitats, wilderness living and off-trail adventure. Summit a peak, hike a ridge, gaze at the stars and find your way with a map and compass in this exhilarating adventure in the mountains! Spend your days exploring and your nights learning games, reading stories and eating s’mores with new friends.

Experience all the Rockies have to offer on this weeklong overnight program that helps middle school students realize their potential as leaders. Team-building, Leave No Trace, backcountry camping, challenging hikes and astronomy are only a few of the topics covered in this exciting week of adventure. Based out of a backcountry hut and wilderness surrounding Eagle County.

Two family members: $35 each, or $120 for all
Each additional person: $10 each, $40 for all

Experience the natural world through the eyes of a different generation! Kids ages four to seven will explore animals and plants in tandem with parents and grandparents on these exciting multi-generational programs that occur every Friday morning in July.