Free Family Event Celebrates Arvada's Trails and Wildlife June 6, 2009

8th Annual Arvada Trails Day

A Free Family Event Celebrates Arvada's Trails and Wildlife

Get Close To Nature

Deer trails, cow paths, foot paths and wagon trails. The introduction of the automobile changed us; up until the last 100 years the majority of Americans traveled, mostly, on foot.

On June 6 Arvada celebrates National Trails Day 2009 hosted at Majestic View Nature Center, 7030 Garrison St. and at Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge (the smallest urban wild life refuge in the U.S.), W. 80th Ave. just east of Kipling.

This free outdoor celebration coincides with National Trails Day and features a 5K walk, a 20-mile bicycle ride, nature exhibits, live animal presentations, an Eco-Fair, free food and more.

Dave Olson, co-chair of the event, explains, “This free day of learning and moving is always enjoyable for families and individuals in the community. Everyone finds a way to enjoy this summer day”. Last year over 1,000 enthusiastic participants enjoyed celebrating Arvada’s 125 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails which are among the best in the region.

People of all ages can enjoy:

· A 5K trail walk with a park naturalist along historic canal trails connecting Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge and Majestic View Nature Center. Meet at Two Ponds (on 80th Avenue just east of Kipling) at 10:15 AM for a 10:30 AM departure (park at the medical center at the corner of 80th and Kipling);

· A 20-mile recreational bicycle ride along Ralston and Little Dry Creeks, Spring Mesa, and Five Parks Village trails. The ride includes an expert guide, a map, a snack stop, lunch, and a couple of well-placed changes in elevation. The Denver Bicycle Touring Club sponsors the ride. Helmets are required. Participants should meet at the Majestic View Nature Center, 7030 Garrison Street, at 8:45 AM for a 9:00 AM departure;

· At Majestic View Nature Center, activities include live animal presentations, nature exhibits, Eco-Fair; Arvada trails information, and kids’ environmental activities. Parking is available at Majestic View Nature Center and the Community Park on 72nd just west of Carr;

· At Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge (80th Avenue just east of Kipling) enjoy live raptors, environmental education displays and activities, self-guided nature walks, and information booths from several environmental organizations. Parking is available on-site and at the medical center at 80th and Kipling;

· Snack on free hot dogs cooked and served by members of the Arvada Fire Protection District and take the free shuttle service between Majestic View Nature Center and Two Ponds.

Majestic View Nature Center’s 80-acre park is a valuable resource, providing environmental education and awareness of our natural resources. The park now encompasses over 80 acres, which includes wetland areas, the interpretive trail, prairie grasses, and an assortment of wildlife. The 3,000 square-foot Nature Center features hands-on nature and environmental displays, wildlife exhibits, classrooms, and meeting space. Learn about water conservation, food chains and take home a nature craft from the Kid's Nook.

Exhibits at the two sites include;

Colorado Division of Wildlife’s Human Walk-Through River Maze

Jefferson Conservation District's Stream Table

Safari Sally’s Live Reptiles and Mammals

HawkQuest

H2O Joe Balloon

The Environmental Protection Agency’s Wetlands Booth

Foolish Frog Nature Stories and Songs

Mad Science

Safari Sally’s Live Reptiles and Mammals

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Birds Of Prey Foundation

Wild Birds Unlimited

Performances by “Teddy Roosevelt” and “Mr. Bones” throughout the day

City of Arvada Water Quality and Alternative Vehicles Booths

Two Ponds Preservation Foundation

City of Arvada offers 140 parks and 125 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. For more information contact the Festivals Commission at 720-898-7400.

8th Annual Arvada Trails Day - Discover Arvada’s world-class trails and parks with day long special events and activities. Saturday, June 6, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Majestic View Nature Center, 7030 Garrison St. and Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge, West 80th Ave east of Kipling St. Free and open to the public. Free shuttles will run regularly between both sites and complimentary refreshments will be available at both locations. For more information, call 720-898-7400 or arvadafestivals.com.