Background Statement
Founded in 1912, the Colorado Mountain Club is one of the state's leading organizations dedicated to education, conservation and mountain recreation. CMC has played an instrumental role in many landmark achievements over the past century, including the designation of Rocky Mountain National Park in 1915, Dinosaur National Monument and passage of the Wilderness Act in 1964. Today, CMC offers a diverse range of programs and activities for adults, school-age children and families, centered on responsible outdoor recreation, active learning and the spirit of adventure.
Established in 1999, CMC's award-winning Youth Education Program "brings the mountains" to thousands of K-12 students every year, helping to improve academic achievement through active learning focused on the outdoors. CMC takes preventing "nature deficit disorder" to heart by getting kids outside and exploring with team-building activities and the personal and physical challenge of rock climbing. YEP's school-based activities meet Colorado's Academic Standards and provide unique avenues for improving math, science and literacy skills.
To ensure the sustainable enjoyment of Colorado's backcountry, CMC also leads efforts to protect wilderness and public lands with its conservation and stewardship programs. CMC continues to maintain a strong voice in Colorado's conservation community, working throughout the state with partner agencies to protect the mountain backcountry, roadless areas and critical wildlife corridors and encourage the public to play an active role in protecting areas like these. CMC also offers numerous opportunities for volunteers to help construct and repair trails, restore wildlife habitat and maintain access to public lands each Summer.