One of the best outdoor education experiences in Colorado! We have created unique learning opportunities with our programs, blending scientific inquiry with hands-on exploration, adventure and creative expression to accommodate all learning styles. Classes are designed to provide outdoor experiences that support specific and ongoing classroom content for 4th through 8th grade level. In addition, we can modify classes to meet k-8 grade level, and Colorado state educational standards. The Outdoor Education Coordinator can assist teachers and group leaders to incorporate outdoor education into their curriculum. Our talented staff is comprised of experienced educators trained to lead the offered classes. We provide easy spring, summer and fall access to the Rocky Mountains and close proximity to Front Range and Denver communities. We invite you to join us for a fun filled outdoor educational experience!
To book lodging and meals for Outdoor Education group, please call 1-800-777-9622. To contact our Outdoor Education Director regarding programming, please call 970-887-2152 x 4292.
Teacher Planning Guide 2021-22
Additional recreation for Outdoor Education groups include a variety of complimentary sports and recreational facilities for students after classes have ended for the day. We can arrange use of our disc golf course, indoor heated swimming pool (max capacity of 50), Kiva Recreation Center (roller skating, basketball, volleyball, foos-ball and ping pong), outdoor miniature golf course and more. Please call 970-887-2152 x4131 for more information regarding these activities.
What are teachers saying about Outdoor Education at Snow Mountain Ranch?
“[Classes] kept the kids’ interest and the instructors were knowledgeable and amiable. The classes were well-rounded and geared toward both girls and boys.” –Kilmer Elementary School
“All the instructors were great and really cared about all the kids. They all learned everyone’s names very quickly and showed special care to the kids who were anxious.” –Denver Jewish Day School
“[Staff member] was always prepared & knowledgeable about each class. Plus, she was enthusiastic, patient, and did an excellent job engaging the children. Her combination of adding songs & hand movement to the curriculum made a great impact on all of us.” -Compass Montessori
“[Staff member] was wonderful. He engaged the students and provided self-discovery opportunities and great scientific explanations for our activities.”- Aspen View Academy
For youth development
To promote youth development, YMCA of the Rockies offers day camp and overnight programs that enable kids to learn, grow and play together. While kids are at camp,parents have time to themselves and kids have the opportunity to create healthy relationships with their counselors and peers in a supportive and nurturing atmosphere.
For healthy living
To promote healthy living, YMCA of the Rockies offers miles and miles of hiking, biking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails on our properties. Adventure programming, sports facilities, outdoor education and youth conferences all add to our youth development focus. The Program Departments’ varied offerings include group and family activities to engage guests’ entire spirit, mind and body.
For social responsibility
To promote social responsibility, YMCA of the Rockies is committed to diversity and respect for all people by utilizing more than 50,000 volunteer hours every year, hosting more than 2,500 outdoor education students to instill in them stewardship of our earth, promoting global awareness through the international trainee program and supporting the Chaplains Departments’ religious education programming for youth and adults. Additionally, YMCA of the Rockies endeavors to operate its centers in an earth-friendly fashion with active recycling programs, sustainable architecture in new construction and active natural resource management plans.