Recreation
If you want adventure, this is the right place for you. Highlands Camp & Retreat Center offers so much on-site and nearby. Surrounded by the Roosevelt National Forest and Rocky Mountain National Park, most visitors come to Allenspark, Colorado, to admire its beautiful scenery.
We have made a name for ourselves with our proximity to Colorado’s most famous national park. Allenspark sits at the park’s southeast corner along the scenic Peak to Peak Highway. Twelve miles south of Estes Park, our small town provides more than just easy access to Rocky Mountain National Park; it provides the convenience of staying nearby, hassle-free dining, accommodations, and meeting space.
Gallery
List of Activities
Snowshoeing
Cost: Free of charge for our guests. If you are coming for the day to snowshoe, contact the Site Director ahead of time at 303-747-2888.
We now offer snowshoes for the enjoyment of our guests; we have 30 sets of snowshoes available. Whether you’re a seasoned snowshoer or just getting started, plenty of trails to suit your pace. Snowshoeing not only offers an incredible way to enjoy the winter beauty of the mountains but also provides a full-body workout. It’s a great way to build strength and endurance while taking in the serene silence of snowy landscapes.
Labyrinth
Cost: Free of charge for our guests.
Walk the labyrinth just out front of the Retreat Center Lodge, except when covered with snow. This beautiful labyrinth offers guests a chance to enjoy quiet reflection.
Campfire Circles
Cost: Free of charge for our guests.
Gather around a campfire to socialize, share stories, and enjoy the warmth. Wood is provided. Weather permitting.
Gaga Court
Cost: Free of charge for our guests.
Our gaga pit is an octagon fenced-in area where the game of gaga ball is played. Here are some handy steps to follow:
A player or referee throws the ball into the pit
Players shout "Ga" on the first three bounces
After the third bounce, the ball is in play
Players can hit the ball at each other in the pit
Players who are hit by the ball or break a rule are out
The last player to touch the ball when it leaves the pit is out
Hiking Trails
Cost: Free of charge for our guests.
NOTE: Day Hikers and snowshoers contact the Site Director ahead of time at 303-747-2888.
With so much hiking, you’ll never run out of beautiful vistas to explore. The creek offers gorgeous and healing sounds of serenity. Use our trail guide to find three hikes we recommend. You can also visit Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park, which are very close.
Hidden Room Trail
This trail is a must-see! While we won’t spoil the surprise, we can assure you that the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. With a one-mile round-trip, it’s an ideal option for a short and memorable adventure.
3 Crosses Red Trail
Prepare for a short but steep hike with breathtaking summit views. This trail offers a challenging ascent, gaining 1,000 vertical feet in just 0.8 miles. The effort is well worth it for the awe-inspiring panoramic scenery at the top!
Meadow Loop
This peaceful and restorative half-mile meandering trail offers a gentle stroll. The Meadow Loop is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful escape. It allows you to reconnect with nature and unwind in the quiet beauty of the landscape.
Activity Center
Cost: $75 for the day.
Our Activity Center has various table games for our guests to enjoy: air hockey, ping pong, darts, pool, and more!
Sand Volleyball
Cost: Free of charge for our guests.
Our outdoor sand volleyball court is just a short walk from the Retreat Center Lodge and centrally located near the cabins. In the midst of trees, it’s a great place to grab a game and hopefully find some shade, too.
Sledding Hill
Cost: Free of charge for our guests.
We have lots of sledding hills to choose from. Bring a sled and have unlimited fun.
Disk Golf Course
Cost: Free of charge for our guests.
Disc golf is a game where players throw discs into baskets. It is like a cross between Frisbee and golf. This fun game is an accessible sport that people of all ages and abilities can play.
Low Challenge Course
Cost: $10 per person
We are happy to provide safety training, then you run your own program. Contact the office, and check out our ropes courses page for more information and helpful documents.
Archery
Cost: $175 per hour with a 2-hour minimum; bring your gear. Or, pay just $50 per hour if your group supplies a certified instructor and archery gear.
Archery is a sport, practice, or skill of using a bow to shoot arrows. The word comes from the Latin arcus, meaning bow. Historically, archery has been used for hunting and combat. In modern times, it is mainly a competitive sport and recreational activity. We have a beautiful fenced-in archery area.
Horseshoe Pits
Cost: Free of charge for our guests.
A horseshoe pit is a rectangular area with stakes in the ground where players pitch horseshoes. To play, players pitch two horseshoes in succession. The goal is to encircle the stake with the horseshoe. Shoes that land within 6 inches of the stake also may score points.
Water Sports - Canoe and Paddleboating
Cost: $185 hour / 2-hour minimum for up to 25 swimmers; one lifeguard is provided.
Enjoy this beautiful pond from a canoe or paddleboat, both available for use. As a water safety measure, please provide three spotters.
Rock Climbing
Cost: Fees charged by KMAC Climbing School.
You can rock climb at Highlands, which KMAC Climbing School provides, 970-586-5990; please contact them directly.
Board Games & Puzzles
Cost: Free of charge for our guests.
We have board games galore! The Retreat Center Lodge houses a full cabinet of puzzles, and the Activity Center has many board games.
