From Grasslands to Glaciers

The very name, Colorado, invokes contrast and ecological, geological, and climatological diversity. The defining landscape patterns that emerge are interwoven and complex. This class is an invitation to experience and explore the rich natural history of the Pike’s Peak Region, from the eastern plains to the alpine meadows. On a large scale, the landscape is dominated by mountains and vast horizons. But to get to know the distinctiveness of Colorado, we must get to know the micro scale. This field-focused class will define climate zones in the Pike’s Peak Region: from grasslands to woodlands to montane to subalpine to alpine. We will journey together from eastern El Paso County to the top of Pikes Peak and the Continental Divide. Along the way, we will learn how to visually map the geology, ecology, and microclimates in which we live.