EstesParkKids.com

Take a Train Ride Through the Royal Gorge!   The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is Colorado's finest and most exhilarating way to explore the riches and beauties of the Royal Gorge. Whether enjoying the breathtaking views from an open railroad car or enjoying a meal garnished with spectacular sights, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad has bounties of fun for all those who board. The train departs daily now through October 31. Looking for a Christmas adventure the whole family will enjoy? The Santa Express Train is the answer for this year's holiday fun! Take part in the magical journey up the gorge to the "North Pole" where the train makes a special stop to pick up a very important passenger - Santa! Every family will enjoy classic Christmas stories and hot cocoa while making memories that will last a lifetime on the Santa Express Train. Make your reservation now for Santa Express, as spots fill up quickly. Visit us on our website or call us to make a reservation for an unforgettable journey on Colorado's most unforgettable train. (less) ... (more)

March 9-11, National Western Complex   Thousands of horse lovers and fans from around the region are getting ready for the 20th annual Rocky Mountain Horse Expo, with four-days of horse related family entertainment, crafts, vendors, educational exhibits, art and demonstrations scheduled for March 9-11 at the National Western complex in Denver. Expo 2012 features every type and size of horse, from show horses to working horses, dancing horses and ponies, and gives horse owners and fans the chance to meet and learn from the region's leading horse trainers, riders and clinicians. Highlights this year includes the Mane Event performances, with professional equine entertainers, and over 45 clinics per day featuring horsemanship workshops, riding, extreme trail, dressage and jumping demonstrations. We are also showcasing a Holistic Horse fair, with nationally known equestrian artists, sporting events, competitions and Art in the Part. "If you love horses, you will love the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo," said Bill Scebbi. "We have something for everyone and you can even bring your own horse." (less) ... (more)

   Have a horse crazy kid? Look for a qualified riding instructor or an educational horsemanship manual. The purpose of Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) is to promote excellence in safety and education for the benefit of the horse industry. CHA certifies instructors and trail guides, accredits equestrian facilities, publishes educational manuals, produces educational horsemanship DVDs and hosts regional and international conferences. For more information on CHA, please visit www.CHA-ahse.org or call 800-399-0138. To find a certified horseback riding instructor or accredited equine facility near you visit www.CHAinstructors.com. (less) ... (more)

Scouting   Going to Girl Scout camp can be a life-changing experience for girls. Its a place to try new things, get along with girls who are different and let down their guard in a safe environment. We have affordable day camp programs for all girls ages 6-17. You don't have to already be a Girl Scout to join the fun. Special discounts are available for first-time campers, even those who participate in other Girl Scout activities. Each camp program is geared to the girls age and gives girls the unique Girl Scout Leadership Experience while they have big fun and make friendships to last a lifetime. You could learn different dances from around the world; experience life as the pioneer women did; perhaps grow crystals or set off rockets; solve a mystery CSI-style; play games and make camp crafts; challenge yourself to learn new water sports; or choose from many other themed sessions. Most camp sessions are five days per week from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Day camps are made possible by dedicated volunteers throughout the state. If you are interested in volunteering this summer (and earning a free week at day camp for one daughter), call Kim Petau at 303-607-4647. For more information, click on website. (less) ... (more)

Colorado State Parks   Enjoy scenery that captures the beauty of Colorado from mountains to plains. Affordable vacations and some of the highest-quality recreation destinations in the state including hiking, biking, nature programs, boating, fishing, hunting and more. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state's favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year Colorado State Parks manages more than 4,300 campsites, and 58 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit our website. (less) ... (more)

Rocky Mountain National Park Family Vacation!   Estes Park Center - YMCA of the Rockies bordered on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park and is Colorados affordable family resort with more activities than anywhere else! Kids and families are number one at the YMCA! We have extensive activities geared toward toddlers to teenagers. Enjoy a state of the art Craft and Design Center, outdoor activities, zip-line, skate park, guided hikes, mini-golf, fishing, horseback riding and staff-lead family activities like big bubbles, creating your own chalk and rocket blast off! (less) ... (more)