Exterior of Bear Creek Nature Center Building

April 12, 2021 – El Paso County Recreation Services Announces Events for April and May. All programs require pre-registration. In light of Covid19, programs are subject to cancellation. Please call for current status.

El Paso Pacers

Third Thursday of every month, 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Participating in a walking club rewards both body and soul. Walking boosts energy levels, improves blood circulation, lowers blood pressure, combats depression and reduces stress. This hike is easy/moderate, casual pace, about 2 miles and is geared towards seasoned adults. Registration required: hike location will be given upon registration. $1 per person donation.

The Great American Cleanup!

Saturday, April 24

Regular cleanup efforts along our trails and waterways and in our parks help to ensure the health of our community, the natural areas surrounding it, and communities downstream. Join us at The Great American cleanup a make an impact on the overall health of our waterways. Trash bags and safety vest provided. Bring gloves, reusable water bottles, and sunscreen. The Great American Cleanup, which marks its 23rd year in 2021, engages more than 3.4 million volunteers and participants, on average, every year to create a positive and lasting impact. There are over 20 sites to choose from throughout the Pikes Peak region. Visit www.GACPPP.COM to pick your cleanup site.

First Aid, CPR, AED, Blended Learning Course

Thursday, May 6, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., Bear Creek Nature Center

This American Red Cross course will prepare you to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children and infants. This blended learning course includes an online portion and an instructor-led classroom skill session. Upon completion, participants will receive a Certification through the American Red Cross valid for two years from completion date. Participants must be at least 16 years old to take this class. $75 for the class; choose from one of the dates and locations below. $35 class fee for Nature Center Volunteers. $20 fee for cancellations/rescheduling.

Free Youth Fishing Derby

Saturday, May 8, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

At Willow Springs Ponds in Fountain Creek Regional Park

Get outside and learn to fish at Willow Springs Ponds! This is a free fishing derby for children ages 5 to 15. Learn to fish and earn prizes for what you catch (Biggest Fish, Smallest Fish, Most fish caught, and more). There will also be a free raffle prize drawing for all registered participants. Bring your own rod, reel, tackle, and bait. Pre-registration is required, and spaces are limited.

Rainbow Falls Invasive Weed Removal Day

Friday, May 21, 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Spend a morning giving back to your community by helping clean up the weeds at Rainbow Falls. Be sure to dress appropriately, bring a water bottle and work gloves if you have them. All are welcome: call to RSVP or register on-line.

Rainbow Falls Geology Walk

Saturday, May 22, 8:30 am

Join Professor Mark Izold, Pikes Peak Community College Geology, and discover the rich geologic history of the area. We will see the Great Unconformity and hear about the Cambrian and Ordovician time periods and evidence for life found in the strata. $4 per person, pre-registration required.

Free Archery Day

Saturday, May 29, 202

At Bear Creek Regional Park, Archery Range (near the tennis courts)

Make a free appointment to try your hand at archery, one of the fastest growing outdoor sports! USA certified archery coaches from the Archery School of the Rockies will walk you through the basics and test your skills; all equipment is provided. Be sure to bring a face mask, close toed shoes, water, and no long sleeve shirts. Open to Adults and Children ages 6 and older. Pre-registration required.

First Aid, CPR, AED Classes for private groups

This American Red Cross course will prepare your group to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children and infants. This blended learning course includes an online portion and an instructor-led classroom skill session. Upon completion, participants will receive a Certification through the American Red Cross valid for two years from completion date. Participants must be at least 16 years old to take this class. The classroom portion can be held at Fountain Creek or Bear Creek Nature Center by appointment only. $75 per person with a maximum of 4 people per group. https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/cpr-aed-first-aid-classes/