August 6, 2026 – The El Paso County Board of County Commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing the 50th anniversary of Bear Creek Nature Center and declaring August 22 a day of celebration in honor of the milestone. Residents and visitors are invited to mark the occasion at a community “Bear-thday Party” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, August 22, at 245 Bear Creek Road. The celebration will feature living-history hikes, nature activities, book readings, art, educational exhibits, food, community partners, and a ribbon-cutting for the new “Life in the Shadows” exhibit.
Established in 1976 as the Solar Trails Center, Bear Creek Nature Center became Colorado’s first nature center and has since served generations through environmental education, conservation, and community engagement. The anniversary coincides with the nation’s 250th and Colorado’s 150th anniversaries, offering a timely opportunity to reflect on how public lands, natural resources, and stewardship have shaped our shared history. As these milestones are commemorated, Bear Creek Nature Center’s 50th underscores the vital role local parks and nature centers play in preserving that legacy for future generations.
For five decades, Bear Creek Nature Center has provided hands-on learning experiences, interpretive programs, guided and self-guided exploration, and innovative accessibility initiatives that ensure nature is welcoming to all. From its early beginnings to its continued leadership in accessible programming, such as the Trailability Program and the Visually Impaired Persons (V.I.P.) Trail, Bear Creek Nature Center has remained committed to inspiring stewardship of El Paso County’s parks and open spaces. In a year dedicated to honoring American and Colorado heritage, the Nature Center’s anniversary underscores the enduring connection between people, place, and the responsibility to care for the lands that define our community.
“Celebrating 50 years is a remarkable milestone for Bear Creek Nature Center and for El Paso County,” said Theresa Odello, El Paso County Recreation & Cultural Services Division Manager. “As Colorado’s first nature center, Bear Creek has helped generations of residents and visitors connect with wildlife, understand the importance of conservation, and experience the outdoors in meaningful ways. This anniversary is not only a celebration of our history, but a recognition of the lasting impact the Nature Center continues to have on our community.”
The 50th “Bear-thday Party,” titled “Over the Foothills,” will give residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the Nature Center’s history, programs and continued role in the community. Scheduled activities include living-history hikes, book readings by Nancy Bentley, insect sweeps, nature-based activities, a 50th anniversary video, community partner exhibits, food, and a plein air art sale and silent auction.
Remarks and a ribbon cutting for the new “Life in the Shadows” exhibit will begin at 12:30 p.m. Living History Hikes will be offered throughout the morning and require advance registration. Additional exhibits and activities will be available throughout the event.
To view the complete schedule, register for a Living History Hike and learn more about Bear Creek Nature Center’s 50th anniversary, visit elpasoco.com/BCNC50.
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