Kids standing in the snow

Connecting students to nature. Inspiring them to protect it.

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Inspiring the next generation of Changemakers

Since 2004, CI has engaged students in innovative programs that support confidence-building outdoor skill development, immersive environmental learning, and student-directed community action.

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Multi-Day Environmental Programs

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Latest Blog Posts

January 28, 2025By Lori Powell

A Winter Fishing Adventure with AXL Academy 8th Graders

From Fishing and Whittling to Shelter Building and Wading: CAP Students Enjoyed a Sunny Escape. Written by AXL Academy CAP Instructor Harmony Esqueda. On a brisk, sunny December afternoon, AXL Academy 8th graders in the Community Adventure Program (CAP) class…

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January 14, 2025By Lori Powell

Student Passions Guided Centaurus High School’s CAP Class Projects

A Passion for Food Facilitated Connecting Students with Each Other and the Natural World. Written by Senior CAP Instructor Erin Angel. The Centaurus High School Community Adventure Program (CAP) Class wrapped up another super semester in December, with their shared…

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Two alums enjoy a laugh along the trail on the solstice hike.
January 13, 2025By Lori Powell

A Solstice Hiking Adventure with Cottonwood Alumni: Reconnecting and Making Magical Memories

The Winter Solstice Offered a Unique Opportunity for Connection. Written by Senior CAP Instructor Erin Angel. On the evening of the Winter Solstice, a group of old friends who had scattered off to college, jobs and internships gathered in the…

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Featured Campaign

Register Today For The 20th Annual Base Camp Bash!

We are so excited for our 20th Annual Base Camp Bash, which is our main fundraising event to celebrate our community and help raise the critical funding we need to help make our life-changing programs free for our students and families. Join us at Upper Larimer in Denver, CO on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 from 6-10pm and let’s pack the place y’all!

Support Cottonwood Institute

Your support allows us to offer free programs that break down barriers to the outdoors. Help us connect students to nature and inspire them to protect it – make a tax-deductible donation to Cottonwood Institute today.

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