Learn While You Ski

The Rocky Mountain Nature Association will kick off the new year with two educational field seminars on winter ecology. The Association is excited to offer a new program, Winter Subalpine Ecology & Cross-country Ski Adventure, on January 19, February 2, March 2 and 16. This program will combine leisurely cross-country skiing and instruction along Trail Ridge Road with educational discussions about the winter world of botany, birds, mammals, geology and weather in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Winter Ecology: A Snowshoeing Trek for Kids and Families, offered on January 26, February 9 and 23, March 9 and 23, is a four-hour snowshoe hike where kids and families can explore the serene beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park in winter. Participants will be led through snow-covered pine, spruce, and fir trees to learn how plants and animals survive winter using their unique adaptations and keen survival skills. Hikers will also learn more about the properties of snow and how it can help the inhabitants of an area survive the long winter months. The high point of this hike will be arrival at Hidden Falls, a spectacular frozen waterfall seldom seen by park visitors.

The cross-country skiing adventure is open to participants of all skiing levels. There will be little elevation gain, but the whole trip will be at elevations around 9,600 feet. Participants must bring their own gear, as skis, poles, and ski boots will not be provided.

For the snowshoe hike, snowshoes will be included for children ages 13 and younger. This course is classified as a moderate hike of less than five miles with an elevation gain of less than 1,000 feet, and it is perfect for beginners who would like to try snowshoeing for the first time.

For both programs, participants should remember to dress in warm layers and be prepared for winter weather conditions that may vary greatly and change abruptly.

For more information about these winter ecology programs or other Rocky Mountain Nature Association field seminars, please call 970-586-3262.

Participants may also register online at http://www.rmna.org.