6 people looking through binoculars

Community Programs

Building a sense of place through exploration

For over 30 years, ACES’ Community Programs have connected students of all ages with the natural world.

Our community programs transform our sites and the local environment into a vibrant community classroom. These programs thrive on shared discovery at every age, serving as the essential first step in building an informed citizenry and the engaged community leaders of tomorrow. 

Our landscapes tell us stories, illustrating the vital roles that humans and wildlife play within a shared narrative. From exploring geologic mysteries to embarking on forest adventures, participants of all ages engage with the natural world through observation, adventure, games, and storytelling, helping participants visualize their own place within the ecosystem. 

From toddler to adults, our age-relevant programming instills the importance of environmental stewardship as an act of planetary healing. By inspiring a connection to and responsibility toward the natural world from an early age, we are building the long-term dedication needed to advocate for our planet.

We strive to cultivate authentic, place-based connections through engaging and creativity-driven offerings. These experiences do more than teach; they foster a love for the natural world, ensuring that our community is empowered to support and advocate for environmental health for generations to come.

ACES works to provide the highest quality experience for all participants wishing to participate in our programs, and to accommodate a wide range of abilities in programs. We make reasonable accommodations with individuals and program leaders to create an accessible learning environment, when appropriate and feasible.

Email communityprograms@aspennature.org with questions.

Check out our Summer Camp Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page.

Adult Programs

Join local and visiting experts on birding outings, field seminars, hikes, art classes and dinners throughout the year.

Summer & School Break Camp

ACES offers a variety of camps for participants 4-18 years during summer months and winter and spring breaks.

Caregiver Toddler Classes

ACES offers seasonal parent/caregiver toddler classes. Join us at Rock Bottom Ranch for Little Ranchers during the Spring and Fall and at Hallam Lake for Nature and Me during Fall and Winter.

Join the ACES Bird Club!

Join the ACES Bird Club!

Deepen your birding knowledge and skills, while enjoying special birding invitations only offered to ACES Bird Club members with this $250 annual fee! Available for new and current ACES members!

Visit our Bird Club page to learn more about the benefits of joining ACES Bird Club, including unlimited access to morning and evening birding classes and invitations to special birding outings and events!