The word “summer” brings up a slew of emotions, some of them mixed. Summer means sleeping in, slower days, more time outside, family time, and no homework (a win for moms and kids alike). Summer can also mean coming up with activities to fill the days, a non-stop chorus of “I’m Bored,” and extra sibling fights.
Despite any of the challenges summer can bring, my mind always drifts to one thing first: more time spent outside.
Time outside for my family means exploring, splashing in the water, getting lost in nature, and soaking in some much-needed Vitamin D. For me, this includes a margarita in hand. My husband, however, is an AVID outdoorsman and is raising our kids to have the same love and appreciation for the outdoors that he has. Summer for him means his yearly backpacking trips that last for days at a time. He likes being able to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.
If outdoor treks and adventures sound right up your alley (or right up your kid’s alley), I have the most unique and immersive summer experience for you. You have to check out Cottonwood Gulch!
Cottonwood Gulch isn’t new to the scene. In fact, they are celebrating 100 years of life-changing expeditions! They exist to inspire trekkers of all ages by immersing them in the incredible natural world of the Southwest. Their treks are designed to connect individuals with nature, communities, and themselves. For generations, they have cultivated a sense of independence, responsibility, and stewardship in people of all ages.
Cottonwood Gulch has programs that fall into three major categories:
- Summer Treks: These are meant for trekkers ages 8-18. During these, kids hike on pristine trails, participate in hands-on science, and explore and immerse themselves in the American Southwest.
- School Treks: These focus on learning in an outdoor classroom. Cottonwood Gulch’s staff work with both local and national youth to facilitate outdoor education in New Mexico and across the southwest region.
- Adult Treks: These are for those ages 18 and older. Each of these programs is tailored to provide an enriching experience that inspires and empowers every generation.
Cottonwood Gulch offers so many programs that you are sure to find one that suits your young explorers. Have a younger kiddo who is just discovering outdoor living? The one-week, Go (Get Outdoors) Trek is perfect for them. It focuses on learning, playing, exploring, and helps kiddos discover outdoor living. Other treks focus on stewardship, leadership, and developing confidence. There are even treks designed to explore more about art, foods of the southwest, and even a Paleontology Trek, where you can earn college credit.
Is a Gulch Trek right for you?
You don’t have to be an athlete or an outdoor expert to join a trek. You DO need to have a sense of adventure and a desire to learn more about the outdoors. But you don’t do anything alone. Cottonwood Gulch has an incredible staff that is there to support and encourage you the entire way.
These Treks change lives, build friendships, and encourage a sense of wonder and adventure. The treks are designed to push you, to make you believe in yourself, and to see that anything is possible if you step outside of your comfort zone. People from all over the country come back year after year for this experience.
If your kids love campfires, spending time outdoors, exploring nature, and learning about science, art, and history, a Summer Trek might just be perfect for them! If this sounds like an activity your whole family would enjoy, they also have family treks for everyone ages 4 and up!
One hundred years of operation is no small feat. Cottonwood Gulch has truly stood the test of time. There’s a reason families keep coming back generation after generation.
If your child is an explorer, I would highly encourage you to check out Cottonwood Gulch for a summer adventure. Applications for summer and family treks are open now. Give your explorers a summer they will truly never forget!
