News May 2017
We are... Discover the Backcountry Wilderness Area HRCA invites you to come and explore the 13 square miles of conserved open space that make up our Backcountry Wilderness Area. With more than 25 miles of natural surface trails perfect for mountain biking, hiking, trail running, and exploring nature, the Backcountry has everything you need to stay active. Wildlife and habitat abound in the Backcountry—it’s home to a variety of species including deer, elk, golden eagles, black bear, coyotes, mountain bluebirds, rattlesnakes, and more. Summer time is a great way for people of all ages to get out and enjoy the Backcountry, and with new camps, events, and programs being offered you have no excuse to stay indoors! Kids can spend their whole summer playing and learning outdoors at Backcountry Base Camp. Week-long Outdoor Discovery Camps give explorers ages 7 to 17 the opportunity to challenge themselves in the wild. Choose from weekly sessions of nature camp, horse camp, adventure camp, art camp, archery camp, or new this year, teen leadership camp. A full line-up of summer programs and events are being offered in the Backcountry, and range from short nature hikes to activities based in science and culture, archery and hunting, horseback riding and hayrides, and recreation such as wildlife viewing and mountain biking. Go into the heart of the Backcountry on a staff-led program, join friends to venture out birding, roast marshmallows around a campfire, and create unique works of art. From events designed for kids as young as three to adult-only programs, there’s really something for anyone. Mark your calendars on June 3 for a brand new event, the Backcountry Shindig, which will show the whole family how much fun there is to be had outdoors and close to home. For more on upcoming programs and events, see page 7. The Backcountry also offers birthday parties, volunteer opportunities, and more! Become a fan at Facebook.com/HRCABackcountry for updates on trail conditions, wildlife photos, new programs, contests, pictures, and all other Backcountry happenings. Register for programs, events, and camps at www.HRCAonline.org/Backcountry.
Join the Mother's Day 5K on MAY 13 Bring your family and friends out on May 13 and join HRCA’s annual Mother’s Day 5K sponsored by Inspire Orthodontics! Soak in amazing views of the Front Range, Highlands Ranch Windmill, and Highlands Ranch Mansion by running, walking, or strolling. All finishers will receive a custom flower pot and be able to plant their own flower! Don’t miss the postrace party filled with fun activities for the kids and an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast for participants! First-time 5K run/walkers, elite runners, and moms/dads with strollers are all invited to enjoy the fun! For more information or to register visit www.HRraceseries.com.
HRCA!
"The Taste" of highlands Ranch Don’t miss the most delicious event of the year! "The Taste" of Highlands Ranch is celebrating its 22nd year of excellence in food, and a variety of beverages. Davidsons Liquors will provide hundreds of samples of wine, beer, and spirits, with over 30 area restaurants showing off their best cuisine. The ever-popular outdoor beer garden will be stocked full with food from local restaurants and beers from local breweries, along with additional seating and music! Each year a silent auction benefiting a nonprofit organization rounds out “The Taste.” This year the Muscular Dystrophy Association will receive the entire proceeds of the auction. MDA is leading the fight to free individuals – and the families who love them – from the harm of muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related muscle-debilitating diseases that take away physical strength, independence, and life. Together with their supporters, they’re helping kids and adults live longer and grow stronger by finding (Continued on page 4)
Get your 2017 Summer Concert Series cling inside!