GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Outdoor Adventure Program at Highline Lake State Park offers kids and families great summer adventures and fun, learning about Grand Valley’s natural world through a series of hands-on activities.
Designed to get kids outdoors and have fun this summer, the variety of programs ensures there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Programs are usually one-and-a-half to two hours and take place at various times throughout the day, depending on the theme. Participants should meet at the Highline Lake State Park’s Visitor Center, unless otherwise directed.
In addition to the Outdoor Adventure Programs, Highline Lake State Park interpreter Corey teaches aspiring anglers the basics of angling each Thursday at 10 a.m. at the Visitor Center. All fishing equipment and bait is provided, but bring your own if you prefer.
Youth under the age of 16 fish for free, everyone else will need a valid Colorado fishing license, available at the park.
Be sure to bring all necessary supplies, including water, sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, closed-toed shoes. We will be spending time under the summer sun in the desert, so be prepared.
For more information, go to www.cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/HighlineLake/Pages/Activities.aspx and scroll down to education program list, call 970-858-7208 or send an email to [email protected].
All activities are free; however, a seven dollar daily pass, or $70 yearly pass is required to enter the park.
The following Adventure Programs are scheduled for July, in addition to the weekly fishing programs:
Outdoor Skills for Kids!
July 8, Wednesday, 10 a.m. to Noon
Come to learn a little about what it takes to go have fun and be safe in the outdoors.
Are You As Sly as a Fox?!
July 10, Friday, 3 p.m.
On this day, we’ll be taking a small hike while learning about foxes and playing some really great outdoor games.
Outdoor Scavenger Hunt!
July 11, Saturday, 10 a.m.
During this activity, we’ll be having fun playing this fun outdoor game.
The Solar System and Beyond!
July 15, Wednesday, 10 a.m. to Noon
We’ll be going beyond the wildlife subjects of previous programs to find out what lies outside of our blue planet.
The Solar System and Beyond!
July 17, Friday, 3 p.m.
Come to Highline Lake this day to take apart owl pellets and discover all of the interesting things that may lay inside.
Campfire Fun and Dark Night Hike!
July 18, Saturday, 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Have fun sitting by a campfire and making s’mores before going on a hike in almost complete darkness, due to an almost new moon. Expect some truly amazing views of the stars! With this activity, you will meet with Naturalist Corey in the campground between sites 9 and 12. Be sure to bring a flashlight, a chair, warm clothes, and anything else you may need for this nighttime program in addition to the items listed above.
Preserving our Blue Planet!
July 22, Wednesday, 10 a.m. to Noon
On this second to last Wednesday program, we will be learning about conservation before doing some fun conservation activities.
End of the Summer Barbecue!
July 29, Wednesday, 10 a.m.
On our last Wednesday program, we’ll be celebrating a great summer the best way we know: a barbecue! We’ll start at 10 am playing games and then have our lunch around noon. Please RSVP by emailing [email protected]
Screech Owls with Nic Korte!
July 31, Friday, 5 p.m.
On this July evening, Nic Korte from the Audubon Society will be giving a very interesting talk on an amazing bird: the Western Screech Owl. With this activity, you will meet with Nic and Naturalist Corey in the campground between sites 9 and 12. Be sure to bring a chair so you can stay comfy.
