Where First-Time Campers and Colorado Natives Unite for an Unforgettable Fall Overnight Adventure in Allenspark. Written by CI Field Instructor Caroline Paul. Lafayette’s very own Centaurus High School (CHS) took their Fall CAP trip this last weekend to Cheley’s Outpost in Allenspark. The weather was beautiful, and with the Aspens at peak foliage, students were… Read more »
From Gaga Ball to Topographic Maps: A Fall Adventure in Colorado’s Tahosa Valley. Written by CI Field Instructor Caroline Paul. Aurora’s 8th grade CAP class from AXL Academy had a “gagaful” time on their overnight camping trip at Cheley Outpost in Allenspark. Nestled in the Tahosa Valley, Cheley Outpost offers breathtaking views, a gaga ball… Read more »
The holiday giving season is upon us and we wanted to spotlight a few amazing local businesses that donate back to Cottonwood Institute as you shop for your friends, family, colleagues, and clients. 14ers Watercolor Prints: You may have heard that local artist, Mike Wilson, donated his entire watercolor collection of all 53 14,000ft peaks… Read more »
See how one student’s passion for the outdoors and community blossomed into a leadership role, inspiring others and shaping our organization. Written by Associate Director & Senior Instructor Chelsea Tossing. One of our students, Jesse, first joined our school-based CAP Class as a freshman in high school during COVID. Even online, it was obvious how… Read more »
Re-posted with Permission: Welcome to Strat Labs’ Changemaker Spotlight Series! This blog series is dedicated to showcasing the inspiring journeys of remarkable individuals who have transformed their passions into purposeful endeavors, leaving a significant impact on the world around them every single day. Join us as we delve into the heart of innovation and commitment,… Read more »
When Is The Best Time To Donate To Cottonwood Institute? All of the giving days are upon us! With Giving Tuesday, Colorado Give Day, the holidays, and the end of the year, you may be wondering when is the best time to donate? Every organization is different, but for Cottonwood Institute (Cottonwood), it is… Read more »
As the cold of late autumn wraps its long arms around us, our inner and outer world begin to slow, settling in for winter. May we use this time to reflect on what we are grateful for, and recall the warm memories of a busy summer. Written by Cottonwood Field Instructor, Caroline Paul, July 18th,… Read more »
Get to know Alo McGarigal (they/they), who is one of our extraordinary Field Instructors! During trips, Alo brings to the team a combination of compassionate guidance with joyful instruction, making them a force of nature in the field! Learn more about Alo below, and read our other staff and board profiles here! What led you… Read more »
Written by Cottonwood CAP Instructor at AXL Academy, Harmony Esqueda The CAP class at AXL Academy enjoyed a beautiful spring field day at Golden Gate Canyon State Park. Students started off the day by checking out the visitor center. We found a plethora of fun facts and interactive educational material to see, read, and feel…. Read more »
Surrounded by the Autumnal aspens who were casting their golden beams of light upon us, New Vista’s CAP Class followed the long and winding road to Camp Cheley in Estes Park, a place we would call home for the next two days. After arriving, we oriented ourselves to this new space, wild and new to… Read more »
