Cheyenne Mountain State Park achieves Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site designation

Bridget O'Rourke
Statewide Public Information Officer
720-219-2919
[email protected]

Jason Coble
Marketing and Communications Manager
[email protected]

DENVER - Leave No Trace recently announced the designation of Cheyenne Mountain State Park as a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site, an honor awarded to sites, organizations and programs that demonstrate excellence in implementing the Leave No Trace principles which are essential in minimizing the impact of natural resources and ensuring a sustainable future for natural areas. Cheyenne Mountain State Park earned the recognition for its role as a leader in promoting responsible enjoyment in the outdoors.

“Leave No Trace is thrilled to announce Cheyenne Mountain State Park as our newest Gold Standard Site,” said Dana Watts, Leave No Trace Executive Director. “Cheyenne Mountain State Park provides critical Leave No Trace education to their community. The park’s staff and partners’ hard work and dedication to protecting natural spaces means they are a leading force in the Leave No Trace movement and an example of how to implement education effectively.” 

Cheyenne Mountain State Park is nestled against the eastern flank of Cheyenne Mountain just south of Colorado Springs. The park represents the protection of one of the last important open spaces along the southern section of the Colorado Front Range and offers a stunning transition from Colorado’s plains to its peaks. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound because the property has been relatively undisturbed. The highlight of the park is its trail system, offering 28 miles of trails, which provide pathways allowing visitors many opportunities to explore the park’s natural beauty. 

In order to be designated as a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site, parks must meet the following criteria:

• Formally train staff in Leave No Trace and outdoor ethics
• Implement Leave No Trace messaging throughout park operations and programs
• Provide Leave No Trace educational opportunities to the community

“Earning the Leave No Trace Gold Standard designation is a testament to CPW’s commitment to conservation and responsible recreation at Cheyenne Mountain State Park,” said Park Manager Jason Hagan. “We take pride in fostering a culture of stewardship, ensuring that future generations can experience the park’s natural beauty just as we do today. This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers and visitors in protecting this incredible landscape.” 

The Leave No Trace organization is a national nonprofit organization that protects the outdoors by empowering everyone through science, hands-on training and simple guidelines. The Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site designation recognizes public lands implementing the highest standard of onsite Leave No Trace education. For more information, visit: www.LNT.org.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park is the sixth state park in Colorado to achieve the gold standard.

“Colorado's diverse landscapes and trails are integral to our outdoor lifestyle,” said Fletcher Jacobs, CPW Assistant Director of Outdoor Recreation and Lands. “Recognizing the responsibility that accompanies these recreational opportunities, CPW is pleased to partner with Leave No Trace. This collaboration is an advancement of our agency's mission to educate and inspire everyone to actively care for and conserve our public lands for future generations."

Plan your next outdoor adventure using the Quick Guide to Colorado State Parks. Find events and outdoor learning opportunities hosted at Colorado state parks on the CPW Events Calendar.

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