Earth Day, a global movement dedicated to environmental protection, falls on Monday, April 22nd, 2024. At Colorado Ziplining, we seek to celebrate not just Earth Day or Earth Month but to get outside and appreciate and enjoy Colorado’s great outdoors as much as possible.
In this blog, we’ll explore a variety of exciting, Earth Day-themed (and regular) outdoor activities you can enjoy in the great outdoors of Colorado this month.
Spending time outside is not just an opportunity to connect with nature and Colorado’s great outdoors, but it offers many benefits for our physical and mental well-being.
Benefits of Getting Outside
Reduced Stress and Improved Mood
Studies show that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress levels and elevate mood. Nature’s calming sights and sounds have a profound effect on our nervous system, promoting relaxation and a sense of peace.
Increased Physical Activity
Exploring the outdoors naturally encourages movement. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through a park or a challenging hike, venturing outside gets your body moving, leading to improved cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall fitness.
Enhanced Connection to the Environment
Immersing yourself in nature fosters a deeper appreciation for its beauty and fragility. This connection can inspire a sense of responsibility to protect our planet and its precious resources.
Vitamin D Boost
Sunshine exposure triggers the production of vitamin D, essential for strong bones, immune function, and overall health. Soaking up some rays while you explore is a natural mood booster and health enhancer.
Celebrate Earth Day with Colorado’s Outdoor Activities
Now that we’re geared up and excited to get outside, let’s dive into some specific ways to celebrate Earth Day in Colorado.
Hit the Trails
Colorado boasts a vast network of hiking and biking trails catering to all levels, from gentle family-friendly paths to challenging treks offering breathtaking panoramic views. Immerse yourself in the lush forests, explore meadows bursting with wildflowers, or tackle a mountain summit for an unforgettable Earth Day experience.
Read more about:
Favorite hiking trails near Idaho Springs
Best hiking within an hour of Leadville
Best mountain biking in Colorado
Volunteer for a Cause
Earth Day is a perfect opportunity to show love to our environment. Many Colorado organizations host Earth Day events focused on trail maintenance, planting trees, or cleaning up public spaces. Participating in such initiatives is a rewarding way to directly contribute to the preservation of Colorado’s natural beauty. Other Earth Day activities seek to help everyone get outside and experience the best of Colorado’s outdoors.
View events in:
Estes Park
Colorado Springs
Durango
Denver
Go Birdwatching
With over 400 bird species calling Colorado home, there’s no better place to hone your birdwatching skills. Grab your binoculars, read up on our birdwatching tips, head to a local park, or visit a designated wildlife viewing area. From identifying majestic raptors to stunning songbirds, birding is a delightful way to connect with the state’s diverse bird species.
Explore a National Park
Colorado is home to four awe-inspiring national parks: Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Mesa Verde National Park, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. These unique landscapes offer opportunities for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and historical exploration. The best part? On April 20th, all national parks offer free admission as the beginning of National Parks Week!
Experience the Thrill of Ziplining
Enter ziplining: an exhilarating way to celebrate Earth Day while appreciating Colorado’s magnificent scenery from a whole new perspective! Soar through the air, suspended above breathtaking canyons, lush forests, or cascading waterfalls. AVA’s Cliffside Zipline in Idaho Springs is designed for all levels and perfect for ages 7 and up. This activity allows everyone to get outside and experience the grandeur of nature in a unique and adrenaline-pumping way.
Paddle Down a River
Colorado’s rivers offer stunning scenery and a variety of paddling experiences, from calm stretches perfect for kayaking to thrilling whitewater rapids for the more adventurous. The end of April represents the beginning of warmer months, making most Colorado rivers suitable for paddling. We recommend the Colorado River, with sections ideal for a scenic float and others offering higher adrenaline rapids. Rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard and explore the waterways at your own pace, soaking up the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Learn more about:
Conservation efforts on the Upper Colorado River
How to Sustainably Raft the Upper Colorado River
Hidden Gems of the Upper Colorado River
Go Stargazing
Escape the city lights and head to a designated dark sky location in Colorado. With minimal light pollution, you will be treated to a dazzling display of stars, planets, and celestial wonders. This is a truly awe-inspiring way to connect with the vastness of the universe and appreciate the delicate balance of our planet within it. Or head to Sand Dunes National Park or Black Canyon of the Gunnison to visit an international dark sky park!
Join a Guided Nature Walk
Many state parks, nature conservancies, and local organizations offer guided nature walks led by knowledgeable naturalists. These walks provide a fantastic opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna, discover hidden trails, and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Learn about our favorite hiking tours in Rocky Mountain National Park.
With plenty of opportunities to explore outside, start celebrating Earth Day to today! Hike through a National Park, zip through the trees, or simply relax on on one of Colorado’s pristine rivers. Our Idaho Springs Cliffside Zipline is open for adventures. Join us outside, and swing through the best of the Rocky Mountains!
Written by Rosa Canales, Copywriting Specialist
