OUTDOORS
STATE PARKS ARE PACKED WITH FUN Looking for ideas to help you plan your next outdoor adventure in Colorado? The answer could be as close to home as the local library. While libraries and outdoor adventures may not be synonymous, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has partnered with the Colorado State Library to offer the Check Out State Parks program. Available state-wide, the program is designed to encourage Coloradans to visit any of the 42 state parks at no cost. Over 300 Colorado libraries are participating in the Check Out State Parks program, including the Colorado Talking Book Library. HOW IT WORKS
The goal of the State Parks program is to expose new patrons to new areas to explore and the expansive services that modern libraries offer. The program is easily accessible and provides a backpack filled with educational materials, as well as a free park pass. Library patrons can check out the backpack and park pass for up to seven days, and may use it to visit any Colorado state park.
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SUMMER GUIDE
SOUTHWEST COLORADO
EACH ADVENTURE PACK CONTAINS: • Colorado State Park Pass for free park entry (hang tag) • Your Guide to Colorado’s State Parks (book) • An activity ideas list • Binoculars (optional) • A Leave No Trace – Outdoor Ethics Card • Fishing Basics Instruction Sheet • Colorado Trees and Wildflower Guide • Colorado Wildlife Guide • Colorado Birds Guide • Night Sky Guide
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Families can use the interactive contents of the pack to help imaginations soar or provide more structured exploration. Each pack invites curious outdoor-lovers to immerse themselves in nature and develop new skills while exploring unique landscapes.
WHERE CAN I GET AN ADVENTURE PACK?
Head to the Durango Public Library or the Fort Lewis College Library to check out an Adventure Pack. Other local libraries include those in Mancos, Cortez, Ignacio, Silverton and Ouray. Visit www.cde.state.co.us/cdelib/checkout coloradoparticipatinglibraries for a complete list. Several park visitor centers also offer activity packs for day use only, including Jackson Lake, Mancos State Park, Navajo State Park and Ridgway State Park. Don’t forget to share photos of your adventures with #CheckOutColorado on Twitter or Instagram.
