Natural and Archeological Wonders at Roxborough Provide Students with a Unique Winter Field Day. Written by AXL Academy CAP Instructor Harmony Esqueda.
7th grade Community Adventure Program (CAP) students from Aurora Expeditionary Learning Academy (AXL Academy) set off for an exciting field trip to Roxborough State Park. The park contains stunning red rock formations that are fun to walk through and explore. Upon arrival, students were greeted by a ranger who explained that Roxborough isn’t just a pretty place – it’s also an important archeological site. Artifacts from indigenous people have been found dating back to the Stone Age! Roxborough is a protected National Archeological District for this reason.
After a quick snack and discussion on ancient culture, 7th graders embarked on a hike to see the rock formations. The 2.5 mile Fountain Valley Loop contains many “spurs”, or small trail offshoots that lead to overlooks. Though the main trail was wide and dry, the spurs were all quite muddy! Microspikes were helpful for navigating the slippery terrain up to the lunch spot – Lyons Overlook.
With the view stretching out across the foothills, it was the perfect spot to eat, relax, and chat. After lunch students took in the view, explored, and even practiced using binoculars to find wildlife. After some time, the group played a few rounds of camouflage and then headed back down to the main trail. Time flies when you’re having fun! By the time the group got back to the main trail, it was time to turn around and head back to the vans. The 7th graders would love to return to Roxborough so they can finish the trail they started and see what they missed on the other side of the valley!
A big thanks to the funders and supporters that make the CAP class possible, including: Enterprise Holdings Foundation, Great Outdoors Colorado, Patagonia, Thorne Nature Experience, Tony Grampsas Youth Services Program and the Xcel Energy Foundation.
If you are also passionate about getting students outdoors to explore nature, please consider making a donation or becoming a monthly donor! You’ll help invest in our students, programs, and long-term sustainability and success!
