YMCA of the Rockies To Host Family Mountaineering and Backcountry Weekend
Featured guests Tommy and Rebecca Caldwell to share family adventure stories
Featured guests Tommy and Rebecca Caldwell to share family adventure stories
ESTES PARK, Colo., Jan. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- YMCA of the Rockies will hold its first-ever family winter mountaineering weekend Feb. 26-28, designed to give families the skills they need to enjoy Colorado's mountains year-round. The weekend will include a variety of hands-on activities and courses, including backcountry skiing, winter survival skills, tips for hiking with children, as well as the option to demo some of the best mountaineering equipment on the market. In addition, world-famous rock climber Tommy Caldwell, his wife Rebecca, and their family will keynote the event with a dynamic discussion about mountaineering with children and families.
All activities at the Winter Mountaineering Weekend are free to YMCA of the Rockies guests. One of Colorado's largest outdoor gear stores, Estes Park Mountain Shop, is the primary sponsor for the weekend, and additional sponsors include Strider Bikes, LOWA, among many others.
"You don't have to be an extreme athlete to get out into Colorado's rugged backcountry," said Sarah Shelton, brand manager for the YMCA of the Rockies at Estes Park Center. "Our goal is to give every family the confidence and know-how to experience all Colorado has to offer in the winter season. From families with young children to those with teens and grandparents, everyone can experience a wide variety of activities suited to their interests and goals."
The weekend will include more than a dozen courses and workshops for families of all ages and skill levels. These range from avalanche safety and beacon training, to snow painting and igloo making. Participants can decide which workshops to attend based on their interests, and skilled experts will guide them. A full list of workshops and activities is available here: http://ymcarockies.org/winter-family-mountaineering-and-backcountry-weekend/
After each day's adventures the YMCA of the Rockies will host an evening reception, culminating in the keynote discussion led by the Caldwells.
"Built within us is the need to explore, and getting outside is the best venue to test our limits and see what's possible," said Becca Caldwell. "We believe one of the greatest gifts we can give children is the opportunity to learn in and love the outdoors. When we found out we were having a child we couldn't wait to share adventures with him. We think the short term challenges of getting outside with your kids (because it can definitely be a challenge) are far outweighed by the beautiful, energizing moments, and a contentment that is rarely found indoors."
Guests can register for the Winter Mountaineering Weekend by visiting www.ymcarockies.org and indicating "Mountaineering" in the comments box. YMCA's Super Value rates are valid for lodge rooms, private cabins and family reunion cabins. Families can participate in the weekend for as low as $79 per night for a lodge room or $99 per night for a two-bedroom cabin.
"We want to bring to light all the different ways families can get outdoors during the winter, and give them the knowledge to go forth and experience Colorado in all its glory," summed up Shelton.
About the YMCA of the Rockies: YMCA of the Rockies puts Christian Principles into practice through programs, staff and facilities in an environment that builds healthy spirit, mind and body for all. To learn more about the YMCA of the Rockies and Snow Mountain Ranch, visit www.ymcarockies.org and www.snowmountainranch.org.
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160112/321674
SOURCE YMCA of the Rockies
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