Girl Scouts Love State Parks!

There couldn’t have been a better way to experience the spirit of Girl Scouts of Colorado than at Girl Scouts Love State Parks! From the breathtaking Colorado outdoors to hands-on lessons about the Leave No Trace initiative, and a community of adventurous girls exploring together – it was an unforgettable day. Keep reading to relive the highlights and discover how your daughter can join the fun by becoming part of a Girl Scout troop near you.

This article was sponsored by the Girl Scouts of Colorado, where girls grow into their brightest, boldest selves.

Girl Scouts (and guests like us!) took over 16 Colorado State Parks this past weekend and were able to earn their Colorado Parks & Wildlife patch. We chose the absolutely beautiful Roxborough Park, just southwest of Littleton, and it was serene. The rock formations and hiking trails are worth the visit and we’ll definitely be back with the whole family!

There were different focus areas at each of the parks so girls across the state went on self-guided adventures or guided hikes, learned about ranger programs, tried out archery and other outdoor skills, explored nature programs and more!

Leave No Trace

The Leave No Trace initiative was the main focus at Roxborough Park with volunteers helping the girls learn more about how to keep our parks beautiful and every person, and animal, safe. We learned hand symbols to remember each of the 7 topics:

Know Before You Go – Be Prepared!
Choose the Right Path – Stick to the Trails
Trash Your Trash
Leave What You Find
Be Careful with Fire
Respect Wildlife
Be Kind to Other and Listen to Nature

Below is a photo of a “surgery” on an eagle to show the kinds of trash that is eaten by wildlife – yikes! There is also a trash garden illustrating just how long it takes for different materials to decompose (spoiler alert – styrofoam is a never!)

Roxborough Park is a CO Gem!

According to the brochure, “Roxborough State Park is a Colorado Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark, a National Archaeological District, an Audubon Important Bird Area and a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Designated Site.” It is a beautiful spot and not all that far from downtown! There are 14 miles of trails or there are guided rides on Monday and Friday on 5-person electric golf carts (register here).

Girl Scouts is Where Confidence Grows

I’ve had the opportunity to work with the Girl Scouts of Colorado a couple of times and I am always impressed by the care that is put into their programming. They help girls explore new interests, build real-life skills, and grow their confidence alongside friends. In a world that is struggling with personal relationships, Girl Scouts focuses on community and meaningful friendships.

From kindergarten through high school, Girl Scouts meet in troops of local girls with parent and guardian volunteers. They spend meaningful, quality time together exploring STEM projects, adventuring outdoors, spreading kindness through volunteer projects and, of course, bring us the most delicious treats come February.

PS – Have you heard the news?! A new rocky road-inspired cookie, Exploremores are coming your way!

Do you have a question about becoming a Girl Scout in Colorado? Visit https://www.girlscoutsofcolorado.org/.

Thanks for joining us at Slides & Sunshine. Now it’s time to get out there and PLAY!

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