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 explored Chatfield State Park for a day full of adventure. As we started on a trail near the marina, we admired some trees showing signs of beaver chew as well as a tree removal project that had helicopters whirring over our heads. Not far into the hike, we took a detour to hang out on the sandy shores of the Chatfield Reservoir. We took our time skipping rocks, dipping our feet in the freezing water, and building nature shelters from driftwood.

After some time exploring we had built up an appetite, so we gathered to eat lunch together on the sand. Students devoured their pita pizzas while imagining what it would be like to camp here and unzip their tents to get a morning view of the lake. We then played a round or two of one of our favorite games, blindfolded Predator Prey.

We ended the day fishing, keeping our eyes out for rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, walleye, sunfish, yellow perch, and channel catfish. A few students opted out of fishing for the chance to do some whittling and admire the water from afar instead. This field day gave students the chance to bond while soaking in some much needed sun this winter.

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!