Cheyenne Mountain State Park in Colorado Springs, CO, recently became the sixth Colorado State Park to achieve a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site designation. Sites, organizations, and programs are awarded this designation when they demonstrate excellence in implementing the Leave No Trace principles.
In order to earn a designation as a Gold Standard site, a park must formally train staff in Leave No Trace and outdoor ethics, implement Leave No Trace messaging throughout park operations and programs, and provide Leave No Trace educational opportunities to the community. Cheyenne Mountain State Park earned the recognition by acting as a leader in the promotion of responsible enjoyment in the outdoors.
“Leave No Trace is thrilled to announce Cheyenne Mountain State Park as our newest Gold Standard Site. 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.” – Dana Watts, Leave No Trace Executive Director.
Located beneath the eastern flank of Cheyenne Mountain just south of Colorado Springs, Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, 28 miles of trails, and beautiful natural landscape along the transition between Colorado’s plains and peaks.
“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. 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.” – Park Manager Jason Hagan