2026 Hike the Pike

You may remember back in 2020, during the COVID pandemic, we launched the #FindYourSummerSelf series and part of that series included the #HikeThePike challenge for our campers, camp families, alums and friends of camp. And now, six years later we are bringing back the #HikeThePike challenge to raise money for the Sandy and Laura Sanborn Scholarship fund.

Many of you know, Hike the Pike has been a “traditional” part of the summer for multiple decades. Originally started by Laura Sanborn as a way to promote philanthropy and giving back to the community, the activity provides campers the opportunity to hike up to 6 miles on the road from Leo’s out to the Witcher Ranch and back, with camp donating $1 for every mile hiked by each camper to an organization. Often one session's funds raised go to the scholarship fund and the other session’s to a local organization. It is an opportunity to raise money for new campers to attend camp and to support local and regional organizations while also getting our whole camp community together for a good, long Saturday morning hike at camp.

2026 Hike the Pike will be Saturday July 25th
WAYS TO PARTICIPATE

1) Get Out and Hike!:

Some camp families and alums will want to get out there on your local trails, in your parks and open spaces or around the neighborhood. Tag us in your photos or send us your pictures!

2) Sponsor Your Own Miles:

Challenge yourself to get outside and move! Consider making a donation based on the number of miles you complete during Hike the Pike weekend. Whether it's $1, $5, or $10 per mile, every step helps provide camp experiences for future campers through the Sandy and Laura Sanborn Scholarship Fund. Six miles at $5 per mile = a $30 gift.

3) Sponsor Camper Miles

Can't join us on the trail? You can still be part of Hike the Pike by sponsoring the miles hiked by our campers and staff. Donate $1 for every mile hiked collectively by campers, or make a one-time gift in honor of their efforts. Every mile they walk helps build opportunities for future campers.

Together, our miles—and our generosity—can help future campers find their place at camp.

Colorado Outdoor Education Center is a 501(c)3 Non-profit organization founded in 1999. We have been offering outstanding programs in the out-of-doors since 1948 and we have a national and international reputation for excellence. In addition to 6000 acres of mountain forest and meadow at an elevation of 8500’ in the Rocky Mountain, the COEC operates three separate experiential education facilities.

Sanborn Western Camps is our residential summer camp, offering two week and month long sessions. And, our mission is: “To live together in the outdoors, building a sense of self, a sense of community, a sense of the earth and a sense of wonder through fun and adventure.”

Here on our 6,000 acres in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, we hike, camp, climb mountains rides horses, and take advantage of the teachable moments that occur daily.

High Trails Outdoor Education Center provides experiential outdoor education for elementary, middle school and high school students from around the state. HTOEC provides three and four day experiences focusing on nurturing an urge to explore, while building knowledge about the history and science of the natural world that surrounds us, as well as, developing a sense of community and team building.

The Nature Place is a year-round Colorado conference center, hosting reunions, corporate groups, and focusing on leadership and team development.

Hike the Pike 2026

#findyoursummerself