My family has been begging to go back to YMCA of the Rockies since our last adventure there. They miss the rock climbing, the crafts and all the activities. I miss the breathtaking views and the peace and quiet! Sounds like Mountaineering month may be the perfect time to go back!
Mountaineering Month
YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park is kicking off Mountaineering Month today, featuring safe, fun, skills-based mountaineering-focused activities for families and guests of all ages. Located on more than 800 acres bordering Rocky Mountain National Park, the popular family vacation destination offers an affordable, easy getaway this winter and the perfect landscape to explore mountaineering and the outdoors.
Mountaineering Month includes educational sessions on orienteering, winter survival skills, and inclusion in the outdoors. Activities will be limited in size, safely distanced, and follow state and county Covid-19 guidelines.
“Whether it’s your first time out, or your family has camped and hiked many times, there is something for everyone during Mountaineering Month,” said Lisa Eccles, marketing and communications director, YMCA of the Rockies. “We hope to create valuable memories for our guests this month, and an opportunity for them learn more about winter outdoor exploration, from snowshoeing and ice skating to winter photography tips, fun arts and crafts, and more.”
Two keynote speakers will address the importance of inclusion and diversity in the outdoors.
- On February 13, 2021, Chelsea Murphy, an outdoor enthusiast, will discuss what it means to be a Black mother with passion for adventuring in the outdoors. She will speak to an in-person audience limited to 10 people at YMCA of the Rockies, and registration to view her presentation virtually is available here.
- Len Necefer, CEO of Native Outdoors and a professor of American Indian Studies at the University of Arizona, will discuss the history of Indigenous peoples and their ongoing relationship with the environment. His presentation will be available virtually here.
Mountaineering Month activities include:
- Educational sessions on winter survival, mountaineering, ice climbing, building a snow cave, and winter photography tips
- Guided snowshoe hikes & winter ecology explorations through Rocky Mountain National Park and along YMCA of the Rockies trails
- Self-guided history tour of Black mountaineers, winter athletes and leaders in the outdoors
- Arts and crafts kits to go including frozen suncatchers, snow paint materials and winter bird garlands
- Ice skating and sledding with free ice skate rentals available on-site (*weather and snow conditions depending)
- Free outdoor education kits to explore a self-guided ecology lesson with your family
Activities are free for guests staying at YMCA of the Rockies. Day passes for guests staying off-grounds are also available for $25 per adult, per day. Day passes for children ages 6-12 are $10; children 5 and under are free.
Pet-friendly cabins start at $109/night and feature amenities such as full kitchens, cozy fireplaces, and porches to take in the beautiful mountain views. Hotel-style lodge room start at $89/night. Reservations available online at ymarockies.org or at 888-613-9622.
About YMCA of the Rockies
YMCA of the Rockies puts Christian principles into practice through programs, staff and facilities in an environment that builds healthy spirit, mind and body for all. To learn more about YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch, visit www.ymcarockies.org and www.snowmountainranch.org. Follow YMCA of the Rockies on Instagram at @ymcarockies.
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