![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/de415872-bb1e-4b86-be20-b42843316494/02EFD0C7-B8B2-46FD-A908-D710D014846F_1_201_a.jpeg)
Upcoming events
![HCCA Hike: Union Park via Lottis Creek](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1716933441177-DK3VSZTYTNGCK8R1SACM/Union+Park.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Union Park via Lottis Creek
This easy hike to the open expanse of Union Park passes by remnants of gold mining in Lottis Creek. Local efforts, HCCA’s included, have successfully kept the park from being inundated for trans-mountain diversions to the Front Range.
![HCCA Hike: Farris Creek](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1716933757275-FYJIWXYZVJ0ECGAUDW76/Farris+Creek.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Farris Creek
Accessible due to the generosity of a local rancher, this hike goes through a beautiful valley, over a low pass with views of Teocalli Mountain, and down toward Brush Ck. and the road home.
![HCCA Hike: Little Pass Creek](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1717000999282-EDBKDMZ4PZOW50B2CKSD/Little+Pass+Creek.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Little Pass Creek
Venture into the West Elk Wilderness, via Swampy Pass trail, through areas proposed for wilderness designation by the Gunnison Public Lands Initiative and GORP Act. Views of the extremely photogenic Castles are our reward, along with an overview of the 2023 Lowline Fire area.
![HCCA Hike: Beckwith Pass from Lost Lake](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1717001637416-CT42BM3QU1GV7D44RC6I/Beckwith+Pass.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Beckwith Pass from Lost Lake
Panoramic views of Raggeds Wilderness peaks as the trail meanders through the trees and meadows toward Beckwith Pass in West Elk Wilderness.
![HCCA Hike: Carbon Creek Railroad Grade](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1717002969748-W0VHFXIOZ8M2B0V5RN6W/Carbon+Creek.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Carbon Creek Railroad Grade
The importance of HCCA’s work to prevent a mine on Red Lady is exemplified by a hike in Carbon Creek, a once-proposed site for toxic mine waste storage. This beautiful valley would never be the same again—see it for yourself!
![HCCA Hike: Horse Ranch Park Loop](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1717003532126-0L1Y0CK7T31I7PSP2W36/Horse+Ranch+Park+loop.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Horse Ranch Park Loop
A wonderful array of diverse landscapes greets us on this hike. From wetlands and beaver ponds to historic aspen trees and open views of the Raggeds Wilderness, this loop is a perfect hiking experience.
![HCCA Hike: West Brush Creek](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1717003954114-64YRX4HEDYR4PJ9P5TGP/West+Brush+Ck..jpg)
HCCA Hike: West Brush Creek
This creekside hike takes us gently toward Teocalli Mountain, whose shoulder provides a beautiful spot for lunch, with views into the Maroon Bells Wilderness.
![HCCA Hike: West Maroon Valley](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1717005265284-ZKIJT9PYWOSXDSSRZ2QM/West+Maroon+Valley.jpg)
HCCA Hike: West Maroon Valley
One of the jewels of the Elk Mountains, this wilderness trail toward popular West Maroon Pass boasts a profusion of wildflowers throughout the summer.
![HCCA Hike: Oh-Be-Joyful](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1717005159008-Z0H62PAZJVFMYNMLO7ZH/Oh-Be-Joyful+in+Raggeds+Wilderness.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Oh-Be-Joyful
Our hike founder, Don Baker, loved to hike Oh-Be-Joyful at the end of each season. We keep with tradition, and hike up this beautiful valley in the Raggeds Wilderness to a lovely lunch spot with spectacular views. A perfect end to our 32nd season of HCCA Hikes!
![HCCA Hike: Snodgrass Preserve](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1716932214488-GEE9QMH2ZSFUPFXWS99O/Snodgrass+Preserve.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Snodgrass Preserve
A lovely jaunt through an area replete with wetlands and into the aspen trees, with views of Crested Butte Mountain and beyond. All is protected for posterity in a conservation easement that HCCA helped create.
![Mountain Words Festival Panel: Public Lands and Future Threats](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1716309348406-WVQKH10PYRJTD8FJV1XE/Social+-+Square+copy+%281%29.png)
Mountain Words Festival Panel: Public Lands and Future Threats
The Mountain Words Literary Festival presented by the Center for the Arts is back in Crested Butte this Memorial Day weekend. Check out the panel on Public Lands and Future Threats chaired by HCCA's very own Advocacy Director, Jon Hare.
![HCCA Happy Hour with Advocacy Director, Jon Hare](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1714752284123-9OAB6LYVUCEZN844YC1A/24_Jon.jpg)
HCCA Happy Hour with Advocacy Director, Jon Hare
Join HCCA and Advocacy Director Jon Hare, for fun and inspiring conversation about our shared public lands!
Volunteer Project: Wet Meadow Restoration at Centennial State Wildlife Area
Volunteer with us! HCCA is partnering with Colorado Parks & Wildlife and the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District to protect and restore critical wet meadow habitat.
![HCCA Hike: Oh-Be-Joyful](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1683935348621-QD86BB7JXXZQ7O3R7XZ0/Oh-Be-Joyful+in+Raggeds+Wilderness.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Oh-Be-Joyful
Our hike founder, Don Baker, loved to hike Oh-Be-Joyful at the end of each season. We keep with tradition, and hike up this beautiful valley in the Raggeds Wilderness to a lovely lunch spot with spectacular views. A perfect end to our 31st season of HCCA Hikes!
![Ben Goldfarb at the Gunnison Library](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1691162512046-SV25IRB5RC0KG2AUMICS/Ben+Goldfarb+Flyer+%28Final%29.png)
Ben Goldfarb at the Gunnison Library
HCCA and the Master in Environmental Management (MEM) Program at Western Colorado present Ben Goldfarb at the Gunnison County Public Library on August 28.
![HCCA Hike: Hasley Basin](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1683935162051-OTXMS2WGRHIQ6NZ8EKRN/Hasley.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Hasley Basin
In the renowned Maroon Bells Wilderness Area, Hasley Basin overlook, at 12,100 ft., presents high-elevation views that are second to none. The climb is well worth it. Group size is limited to 10 in this wilderness area.
![46th Annual Red Lady Salvation Ball](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1690139880995-P5KD5JDFUN6O3UP0U0PX/RLB+for+event+page+%28Presentation+%28169%29%29+%283%29.png)
46th Annual Red Lady Salvation Ball
Tickets are on sale now for the 46th Annual Red Lady Salvation Ball, at The Slogar on August 16 at 6 PM. Mile High Soul Club spins the best from the mid-1950s to the early-1970’s—all on 45s! The event features our famous raffle, the opening of a hybrid (in-person and online) 10-day auction, food, and libations. Get your tickets today, and we’ll see you at The 46th Annual Red Lady Salvation Ball!
![HCCA Hike: Baxter Gulch](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1683934992965-VIRH9FAWJ3WOD8CPSE0V/Baxter+Gulch+1.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Baxter Gulch
This recent addition to our public lands trail system winds up the evergreen valley between Gibson Ridge and Whetstone Mountain. The longer the hike, the better the views.
![HCCA Hike: Rosebud Gulch](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1683934753242-XGJC4JQ663MR8H0F6YBL/Rosebud+Gulch.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Rosebud Gulch
Beginning in beautiful Spring Creek valley, this hike leads to expansive views of the southern reaches of Gunnison County and beyond. Unique flowers and remnants of a historic log cabin en route.
![HCCA Hike: Lost Lake Loop](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1683934574080-FN2ZKYF1QOJMGEWODAR1/Lost+Lake+Loop.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Lost Lake Loop
Beyond the Lost Lake campground lie Dollar Lake and Lost Lake, along a well-worn hiking trail that loops below E. Beckwith Mountain, with views of the Raggeds Wilderness.
![Powderhorn Riparian Restoration Project (Day 2 of 2)](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1686087205434-RG9VSNCIFWP76P7KQLC5/P1266928.jpg)
Powderhorn Riparian Restoration Project (Day 2 of 2)
Join High Country Conservation Advocates and our project partners in Powderhorn, CO to participate in a riparian restoration project!
![Powderhorn Riparian Restoration Project (Day 1 of 2)](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1686085967785-H1ZX132FYHTYE9HKSV1N/P1266940.jpg)
Powderhorn Riparian Restoration Project (Day 1 of 2)
Join High Country Conservation Advocates and our project partners in Powderhorn, CO to participate in a riparian restoration project!
![HCCA Hike: Red Mountain](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1683934373953-AENR6R5YL7YXRMI7C3HI/at3ikpas.png)
HCCA Hike: Red Mountain
Not to be confused with Red Lady, Red Mtn. is on private property, and we will have access to this lush piece of paradise thanks to generous homeowners. A new hike for HCCA, so explore with us!
![HCCA Hike: Almont Triangle](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1683934156953-55E9AAKB5NXJGY7FMP1I/Almont+Triangle.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Almont Triangle
The Almont Triangle is an area that is closed in winter for the sake of its wildlife, including elk and Gunnison sage-grouse. In summer, beautiful high meadows and views of the Gunnison Valley and Taylor Canyon.
![HCCA Hike: Poverty Gulch](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1683933796310-KCEEUKGGRT2P7YWXD3XW/Poverty+Gulch.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Poverty Gulch
Waterfalls enhance this hike, which heads up an old mining road toward the former Augusta Mine. An incomparable setting, well-worth a little uphill effort.
![HCCA Hike: Cement Creek Caves](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1683933277800-YDGI8OKWKU1Y3B7BWYZR/Caves.jpg)
HCCA Hike: Cement Creek Caves
An early season favorite. HCCA has recommended Cement Creek for guaranteed instream flows. After the uphill section and traverse, we’ll finish the hike along a stretch of creek to admire its rushing waters and importance in the ecosystem.
HCCA Hike: Snodgrass Preserve
A lovely jaunt through an area replete with wetlands and into the aspen trees, with views of Crested Butte Mountain and beyond. All is protected for posterity in a conservation easement that HCCA helped create.
![Riders of the Sage: Bicycle Tour of Gunnison Sage-Grouse Habitat](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1684272088199-WDT2CVHJ3GYNT87HXVHL/Riders+of+the+Sage+Flyer+2023-0610+%281%29.png)
Riders of the Sage: Bicycle Tour of Gunnison Sage-Grouse Habitat
Join HCCA and Goodday Bikeworks on this gravel bike tour of the Ohio Creek Valley! Along the way, we'll visit and learn about HCCA's wet meadow restoration sites, vital to the Gunnison Sage-Grouse.
![18th Annual Backcountry Film Festival - Gunnison Screening](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1667253689003-5M26HDPFA1C84QKPAVRI/Son%CC%83adora+8_PC+Micheli+Oliver+-+Backcountry+Film+Festival+2022-23.jpg)
18th Annual Backcountry Film Festival - Gunnison Screening
A fundraiser to benefit HCCA's Save Red Lady campaign:
Calling all “go big or go home” winter enthusiasts! Get ready to get goosebumps while you “Ooh!” and “Ahh!” at the impact and importance of our winter wildlands through this collection of short films. The eighteenth annual Winter Wildlands Alliance Backcountry Film Festival will show in Gunnison on Thursday, December 1st at the University Center Theatre on the campus of Western Colorado University . All proceeds will benefit HCCA’s Save Red Lady campaign.
![18th Annual Backcountry Film Festival - Crested Butte Screening](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1666979215969-28MO7OY1K5LYWYIHA9AO/Son%CC%83adora+8_PC+Micheli+Oliver+-+Backcountry+Film+Festival+2022-23.jpg)
18th Annual Backcountry Film Festival - Crested Butte Screening
A fundraiser to benefit HCCA's Save Red Lady campaign:
Calling all “go big or go home” winter enthusiasts! Get ready to get goosebumps while you “Ooh!” and “Ahh!” at the impact and importance of our winter wildlands through this collection of short films. The eighteenth annual Winter Wildlands Alliance Backcountry Film Festival will show in Crested Butte on Saturday, November 26th at the Majestic Theater. All proceeds will benefit HCCA’s Save Red Lady campaign.
![Upper Willow Creek (Wet Meadow Restoration) Day 2](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1655228058451-DDS2X4C2T7IYL2L6EEPY/VOL_PIC.jpeg)
Upper Willow Creek (Wet Meadow Restoration) Day 2
Second day of back-to-back volunteer workdays. We are happy to be returning to Upper Willow Creek on National Public Lands Day to join the Bureau of Land Management in restoring critical wet meadow habitat above Blue Mesa Reservoir.
![Upper Willow Creek (Wet Meadow Restoration) Day 1](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1661980823406-XWFNVHFV009NMK15KM8T/VOL_PIC.jpeg)
Upper Willow Creek (Wet Meadow Restoration) Day 1
First day of back-to-back volunteer workdays. We are happy to be returning to Upper Willow Creek on National Public Lands Day to join the Bureau of Land Management in restoring critical wet meadow habitat above Blue Mesa Reservoir.
![Taylor Park Wetland Restoration Project on Trail Creek (Beaver-Based Restoration)](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1651009601695-LEJ401A791GA9YBGXXC6/BAH07807.jpg)
Taylor Park Wetland Restoration Project on Trail Creek (Beaver-Based Restoration)
Join High Country Conservation Advocates (HCCA) and the United States Forest Service to reconnect and restore riparian and wetland habitat on Trail Creek by constructing beaver dam analogs (BDAs).
![Taylor Park Wetland Restoration Project on Trail Creek (Beaver-Based Restoration)](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1651009601695-LEJ401A791GA9YBGXXC6/BAH07807.jpg)
Taylor Park Wetland Restoration Project on Trail Creek (Beaver-Based Restoration)
Join High Country Conservation Advocates (HCCA) and the United States Forest Service to reconnect and restore riparian and wetland habitat on Trail Creek by constructing beaver dam analogs (BDAs).
![Miller Ranch State Wildlife Area + Black Sage Pass (Wet Meadow Restoration)](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/d8e68339-52ad-42db-afaf-626b5377a24a/DSC03890.jpg)
Miller Ranch State Wildlife Area + Black Sage Pass (Wet Meadow Restoration)
This Labor Day weekend we are excited to once again join Wildlands Restoration Volunteers, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District, and the US Forest Service to restore riparian and wet meadow habitats in the sagebrush shrublands of Miller Ranch, in the picturesque Ohio Creek Valley. Volunteers will use innovative, yet simple, restoration methods, specifically constructing small rock structures to raise the water table to support plants and insects needed by wildlife. This work will especially benefit Gunnison sage-grouse.
![Wet Meadow Restoration Tour Day (Flat Top Mountain - South Cottonwood Drainage)](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1659992443690-50ZTT5MC5ALD3DB8DZ88/2F367A80-462C-4460-BBF3-C02CAF5F8D58_1_105_c.jpeg)
Wet Meadow Restoration Tour Day (Flat Top Mountain - South Cottonwood Drainage)
We are offering a “tour day” led by our project leaders. We will not be undertaking any restoration work--this outing is intended to be educational, informal, and fun. Attendees will see restoration sites that volunteers helped with in past years.
![HCCA Hike: Oh-Be-Joyful](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60ad448af8e4c46870c604d4/1653431455077-QWD8DB7VZQEDTP26TA8S/Oh-Be-Joyful+on+HCCA+Hike+%2721.jpeg)
HCCA Hike: Oh-Be-Joyful
Our hike founder, Don Baker, loved to hike Oh-Be-Joyful at the end of each season. We keep with tradition, and hike up this beautiful valley in the Raggeds Wilderness to a lovely lunch spot with spectacular views. A perfect end to our 30th season of HCCA Hikes!