Nov. 5, 2011
April Wefler
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Imagine a dark, moonlit night. The moon is intoxicating, the view romantic and the stars bright.
Now stop imagining, because the Recreation Center is putting on its fifth Mt. Cutler Moonlight Hike.
Daniel Bowan, recreation center coordinator of intramurals, outdoors and sports clubs, feels the hike helps the students get adjusted to college and benefits them in their social lives.
“It’s a great opportunity for UCCS students to get to meet other people, make new friends,” said Bowan.
Bowan noted that the hike is easy. Students meet at the Recreation Center at 7 p.m. and will be back on campus around 10 or 11 p.m.
“With the full moon, we hike by the light of the moon. We don’t want to do something that will involve long hours, to avoid injury,” he said.
Last year, clouds obscuring the moon gave little moonlight to help students hike the terrain, but Bowan said that it all worked out. Still, he hopes for good weather this year.
Bowan explained that he tries to involve everyone. “We try to cater to the average student. The van is for everybody.” Since there is a van available for transportation, students without cars can still come.
The Mt. Cutler Moonlight Hike involves more than hiking, though. It provides fun and games for the students, as well.
Bowan pointed out that he does what he can to get the students involved. “We play games: name games, get-to-know you games.”
There’s also an educational side to the hike that will allow the students to learn more about Cheyenne Cañon. “We talk about the history of Cheyenne Cañon and natural history will be part of it,” said Bowan.
The hike is limited to 12 people because of the van size and modes of transportation. The cost to participate in the hike is $10, which covers the price of the guide, who is a student employee of the Recreation Center, and the van. According to the event calendar, registration continues until the hiking trip is full.
The hike is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. Students are encouraged to be prepared for fun, beautiful stars, cool weather and to dress accordingly.