Join the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), San Isabel National Forest, Leadville Ranger District and partners to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act at the Leadville National Fish Hatchery in Lake County on Saturday, September 6.
The free event runs from 10:00 am until 2:30 pm, registration begins at 9:00 a.m. Activities will include a scavenger hunt, backcountry cooking demonstrations and presentations about wilderness etiquette. There will also be two “Walk for Wilderness” hikes; a 1-mile hike along the Nature Trail loop and a 2.5-mile Rock Creek Loop.
“Wilderness benefits everyone, whether you simply appreciate the existence of areas where the earth and its community of life are not controlled by humans, or enjoy experiencing it first-hand,” said Leadville District Recreation Planner Michelle Mueggler.
The Leadville National Fish Hatchery is located on Hwy. 300 near the Mount Massive Wilderness Area. The hatchery is hosting the anniversary celebration because large events cannot be held within the Wilderness area because of restrictions on group size.
Local partners hosting this event include the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Upper Arkansas Wilderness Volunteers, the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association, Friends of the Leadville Fish Hatchery and the Leadville Ranger District.
Family-friendly activities and demonstrations will include:
The Wilderness Act was signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson on September 3, 1964. The Act established permanent protections for the nation’s most stunning scenery. Colorado boasts 43 designated Wilderness areas. For additional information about the event or to volunteer, please contact Michelle Mueggler the Leadville District Office at 719-486-0749.
Transportation from Salida:
The Salida Recreation Department has coordinated a bus from Salida to the Leadville Fish Hatchery.
Cost: $10 per person
Times: Leave Salida Hot Springs Pool at 8:30 am; return at approximately 3:30 pm
Registration: Pre register by September 2 by calling 719-539-6738 or in person at the Hot Springs Pool
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Walk for Wilderness transportation flyer
Many GARNA programs require a Liability Release Form be filled out each calendar year.
Your registration is secured upon receipt of payment, as long as there space is still available in a program. If you prefer not to register online (recommended), you may mail a check, made out to “GARNA” to the address below or stop by the office. Please include a note with the program you are registering for. Be aware, some programs sell out quickly, and we cannot confirm your spot with a mailed registration.
PO Box 1522
Salida CO 81201
Cancellation policy:
If we are notified of your need to cancel by 24 hours of program date, your program fee will be refunded except for a $3.00 administrative fee. No refunds within 24 hours or after the event (but most events are transferable). If minimum enrollment has not been met 2 days before program date, programs will be cancelled and we will refund the full amount.