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Exploring with Grandkids and More Outdoor Family Adventures

April 21, 2022

Get outside and get active with exciting adventures from Thornton Parks and Recreation. From treasure hunts to family bike rides, there are several fun opportunities for kids (ages 5+) and their caretakers this summer season. Register today to secure your spot!


Exploring with Grandkids

Ages 5+

These guided, approximately two-mile, nature hikes are a great way for grandparents and grandkids to spend time together learning about nature. Participants will meet at the Active Adult Center, 11181 Colorado Blvd., and travel to the designated location in our large capacity van. Please bring water, sunscreen, snack, and appropriate footwear.

Fees: $15R/$18NR. Fee is per person.

  • Tuesday, May 31, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., Chatfield
  • Tuesday, July 12, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., Rocky Mountain Arsenal
  • Tuesday, August 2, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m., Lair of The Bear

CatEye Tour

Ages 6-12

This exploration will take place at night with participants searching for a series of Cateyes (bicycle reflectors) with flashlights.

Fees: $7R/$8NR

  • Friday, May 13, 9-10 p.m., Eastlake #2, 124th Avenue & York Street
  • Friday, July 8, 9-10 p.m., Eastlake #3, 124th Avenue & Fillmore Street

GPS Treasure Hunt

Ages 6-12

This treasure hunt is similar to geocaching but adds elements of a scavenger hunt. Participants will have fun locating hidden treasures in the open space area around Eastlake #3.

Fees: $7R/$8NR

  • Saturday, May 14, 8-9 a.m., Eastlake #2, 124th Avenue and York Street
  • Saturday, July 9, 8-9 a.m., Grandview Ponds, 4401 E. 104th Ave.

Nature Photography

Ages 8-12

Join us for this beginner photography course to learn how to take great nature photos. You can use your cellphone or a digital camera. We'll meet at the Active Adult Center, 11181 Colorado Blvd., and take the multi-passenger van to the location.

Fees: $15R/$18NR

  • Tuesday, June 8, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., Roxborough Park
  • Tuesday, August 16, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Agricultural Heritage Center in Longmont

Dinner Nature Hike

Ages 6-12

Join us for dinner and an approximate two-mile hike around the lake exploring different animal habitats. Due to COVID-19, please pack your own dinner/snack and drink.

Fees: $7R/$8NR 

  • Friday, June 24, 5:30-7 p.m., Eastlake #3, 124th Avenue and Fillmore Street
  • Friday, August 5, 5:30-7 p.m. Lake McKay, 2000 W. 144th Ave. 

Family Bike Ride

Ages 6+ 

Join us for a family bike ride along Signal Ditch Trail. The ride will start at the Fallbrook Farms Playground. Fees: $5R/$6NR per family.

  • Wednesday, June 22, 6-8 p.m. Fallbrook Park, 3578 E. 142nd Dr.

Register online at thorntonco.gov or call (720) 977-5901.