Littleton, Colo. – Come join the fun, learn about nature and watch Roxborough 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, all programs require reservations. For program information and reservations call the park at (303) 973-3959.

12/3/2011: What Kind of Christmas Tree is That?

What kind of a Christmas tree is that? We will start in the VC with a short slide show and then identify each sample branch to a species using a dichotomous key. We then visit those conifers that are found at Roxborough. I hope we can get to the mystery tree! Dress for the weather.

Time: 9:30 a.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

12/3/2011: Adults Hour

Join naturalist Jo Haugland and discover some American Indian uses of plants in Colorado. View plant specimens and make a smudge stick to take home.

Time: 1 p.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

12/4/2011: Roxs Talks

Join naturalist Mary Taylor on the patio for an informal conversation of geology principles illustrated by the rocks that surround us.

Time: 11 a.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

12/4/2011: Historic Persse Place Open House

Step off the Fountain Valley Trail and into the early 1900s with volunteer naturalists while you tour the nationally registered historic home of Henry Persse.

Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

12/10/2011: Holiday Gift Sale

Come help support Roxborough State Park and Friends of Roxborough while taking care of the nature-lovers on your holiday list. Take 10% off all books, t-shirts, maps, hats, sweatshirts, and more! Plus, an author signing!

Time: 10 a.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

12/10/2011: Author Book Signing

Meet and listen to six featured authors while they introduce their featured books and sign them in the Visitor Center lobby. Personalized, autographed copies will be 10% off. Our authors:

Kevin Pharris, “The Haunted Heart of Denver”

Jack Reed, “Rocks Above the Clouds”

Ed Sealover, “Mountain Brew”

Mark Scott-Nash, “Colorado 14er Disasters”

Charles & Jan Turner, “Wildflowers of Red Rocks Park”

Time: Starts at 10 a.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

12/14/2011: Guided Bird Walks

Grab your bird book and binoculars and join us for bird watching adventures. All ability levels welcome. Dress for the weather. Naturalists Paul & Phoebe Thayer

Time: 9 a.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

12/17/2011: Old Fashioned Holiday Celebration

Enjoy a winter stroll down the Fountain Valley Trail, and then warm up with hot cocoa, warm cider and holiday treats at the historic Persse Place.

Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

12/17/2011: Every Hike is a GREAT One at Roxborough

Join naturalist Deb Wright for a hike up South Rim Trail. See Fall’s changing colors and experience the rejuvenating effect of Winter’s crisp air. Time spent on this trail will lift you physically, mentally, & spiritually. This is a moderate 3-mile round trip hike. Dress for the weather and bring water/snack.

Time: 9:30 a.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

12/31/2011: Holiday Bird Count

Bird lovers unite! All ability levels welcome. Join us for the 2011 Annual Douglas County bird count and potluck chili dinner. Teams spend the day counting birds and then converge at the Roxborough Visitor Center for a potluck chili dinner. Please reserve before December 28. There is a $2 “Chili Charge.” Chili and drinks are provided, bring a side dish to share.

Time: Starting at 7:30 a.m.

Location: Roxborough State Park

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets 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 Parks and Wildlife 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.