FRANKTOWN, Colo. – Come join the fun, learn about nature and watch Castlewood Canyon State Park change with the season. Park naturalists will lead you on a journey of discovery through our guided hikes and activities. Programs are free, however, please remember that all vehicles entering the park must purchase a $7 daily pass or display a $70 annual pass. Unless otherwise indicated, programs require reservations. For program information and reservations call the park at (303) 688-5242.

The following programs are offered the month of July 2011:

7/9/2011: Family Hike to the Dam:

This hike is designed for the entire family including little ones. The round trip will be a little over two miles. Strollers will not work on the sandy, rocky terrain therefore little ones will either have to hike it or be carried with a pack. You will travel through four ecosystems on your way to the remains of the historic Castlewood Canyon Dam. A talk on the history of the dam and of the park will be included. All ages are welcome. Meet Volunteer Naturalists Sonia and Mike Zipparo at the event facility shelters. Please give us a call at (303) 688-5242 to let us know you are coming.

Time: 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Location: Castlewood Canyon State Park

7/23/2011: Home Landscape Inspiration:

If you wished your backyard was as inspiring as Castlewood Canyon, join this hike with a park naturalist to see how Mother Nature’s beauty offers ideas for your landscape. While this won’t be a strenuous hike, please bring water and wear sturdy shoes. Join Volunteer Naturalist Liz Bade at the Homestead Parking Lot. Limit 8 adults. Please call (303) 688-5242 to reserve your spot today!

Time: 10 a.m. – noon

Location: Castlewood Canyon State Park

7/30/2011: Capture the Canyon Photography Hike:

Castlewood Canyon Naturalist and Long Time Photographer, Derald Hoffman, will lead a hike on how to shoot like Ansel Adams. There have many articles lately on this subject. What digital camera would Ansel Adams use and would he use Adobe Photoshop, etc.? Meet at the visitor center. Limited to ten. Call for reservations (303) 688-5242.

Time: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Location: Castlewood Canyon State Park

Colorado State Parks get everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado’s 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado’s economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Contact:

Ron Claussen, (303) 688-5242 ext. 4373, castlewood.goco@state.co.us

Deb Frazier, (303) 866-3203 ext. 4342, deb.frazier@state.co.us