Eleven Mile State Park’s programs for adults, families, and youngsters continue through the summer with hikes, nature programs and other fun activities to connect kids and adults with nature and the outdoors. Please join us for this week’s free, fun programs. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

All programs are free, but all vehicles entering the park must have a daily pass, $7, or an annual pass, $70. For additional information, please call 719-748-3863. The amphitheater is sunny, so bring water and a hat to morning and afternoon programs. The program may be canceled if there is lightning or rain. The Aug. 31-Sept. 3 programs are:

Friday, Aug. 31

Alien Invaders from Another Habitat – North Shore Amphitheater – 7 p.m.

Be afraid! Be very afraid! Invasive species are causing harm to ecosystems throughout the United States and right here in Colorado. Learn how invasive species of plants and animals spread, how they impact native species, and what you can do about it.

Saturday, Sept. 1

The Tree and Me  – Children’s Program – Coyote Ridge Trailhead – 10 a.m.

Experience the wonders of trees with Great Outdoors Colorado Park Naturalist Beth Dodd. We will play a game and investigate the different trees and shrubs along the trail.

Pet Rocks – Jr. Ranger Program – North Shore Amphitheater – 2 p.m.

Children are invited to create a pet rock to take home while learning about the three basic types of rocks – igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. The program will be led by Great Outdoors Colorado Park Naturalist Beth Dodd.

Bear Aware – North Shore Amphitheater – 7 p.m.

Discover how bears live from season to season, and learn how to live and play safely in bear country in this program withGreat Outdoors Colorado Park Naturalist Beth Dodd.

Sunday, Sept. 2

Native American Stories – Children’s Program – North Shore Amphitheater – 10 a.m.

Please join Great Outdoors Colorado Park Naturalist Beth Dodd for a sampling of adventure stories from several different Native American cultures.

Introduction to Colorado Wildlife – Jr. Ranger Program – North Shore Amphitheater – 2 p.m.

Get a feel for Colorado wildlife with Great Outdoors Colorado Park Naturalist Beth Dodd. Kids will get to touch the skins and skulls of common mammals as they learn how these animals survive in the wild.

Crawfishin’ Expedition – North Shore Amphitheater – 7 p.m. – Attention! It’s time for a crawfishin’ expedition. Bring a parent and your fun boots to celebrate the holiday weekend!  Bring a container to put your catches into. Poles and bait will be provided, as well as a few tasty crawdad recipes!

Monday, Sept. 3

Junior Ranger Awards Ceremony – North Shore Amphitheater – 10 a.m.

Hey kids! Get a Junior Ranger Activity Book from the park naturalist or at the park office. Finish it by Sunday morning and bring it to the Junior Ranger Awards Ceremony to get fabulous prizes! You’ll earn a Junior Ranger badge and more. Not quite finished or leaving early? The park naturalist can help.

Image courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife