Editor’s Note: This is a regular monthly column from Colorado Parks and Wildlife about recreation opportunities at Mueller State Park.

Each month’s calendar is packed with holidays, social gatherings and work
responsibilities. Did you know there is also an astronomical calendar of the monthly and special events happening in the sky?

On March 3 there will be an opportunity to see a total lunar eclipse. This means the Earth will be directly in between the sun and moon causing the bright red color the Blood Moon is known for. It will take place between 4 and 5 a.m. so it requires an early wake up call. Since the next total eclipse won’t be on the calendar again until 2028, it’s worth an early rise.

Mueller State Park is working on applying to be a Dark Sky Park via DarkSky International. A lot goes into the multi year application process including taking sky quality measurements, updating our lighting to be dark sky friendly and educating about the importance of dark skies. Community members can help too. Taking simple steps to reduce light pollution at home can help improve sky quality measurements at the park.

Discover more about night skies and join the Night Sky Defender program at the park on Friday, March 13 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Learn about constellations, light pollution and how you can protect the night sky. Complete activities and earn your very own Night Sky Defender button.
This is a new Jr. Ranger series created for children ages 6 to 12, but all ages are welcome.

Another special event this month is for people new to the area, who enjoy hiking and don’t have much experience on the trails in winter or do hike this time of year and want more tips. Intro to Hiking is a classroom talk on Saturday, March 14 at 1 p.m. at the Visitor Center. Get advice on how to prepare, winter gear and beginner friendly winter trails from an experienced local hiker. Some equipment will be available to look at up close and see how they work.

More programs are scheduled this month, be sure to check out our full event calendar online at https://cpw.state.co.us/events. Use the ‘filter by park’ box to find Mueller events.

The Visitor Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For current conditions call the Visitor Center at 719-687-2366.

BOX

Here is the full list of March programs at the park:

Fri, March 6

Animal Antifreeze

2-3 p.m. Meet at Visitor Center

How do animals survive the winter? Do a fun experiment to learn how animals stay warm and see if your inner animal can beat the cold. Best for ages 5 and older.

Sat, March 7

Guided Nature Hike

9-11 a.m. Meet at Homestead Trailhead

Discover what plants and animals you can see this time of year along the trail on this 2.5 mile loop. Bring layers, water, and sturdy footwear. Led by volunteer naturalist, Penny.

Fri, March 13

Jr. Ranger-Night Sky Defenders

7:30-8:30 p.m. Meet at the Visitor Center

Mueller State Park is applying to be a Dark Sky Certified Park. You can help by becoming a Night SKy Defender! Learn about constellations, light pollution and how you can help keep our night skies dark. Complete activities in order to earn a Night Sky Defender button. Register online at cpw.state.co.us/events.

Sat, March 14

Trees & Shrubs Hike

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Meet at Outlook Ridge Trailhead

Learn about the trees and shrubs you’ll see along the trails in the park. This hike is about 1.5 miles out and back to the scenic Raven Ridge Overlook. Spikes and hiking poles may be useful. Some adult snowshoes will be available to borrow if there is enough snow.

Intro to Winter Hiking

1-2 p.m. Meet at the Visitor Center

Are you interested in hiking in the cold and snow, but unsure where to start? Join this classroom presentation that will cover how to properly layer clothes, equipment and safety tips for hiking in winter. There will be a variety of equipment for you to look at and try out for yourself outside.

Sun, March 15

Junior Rangers in the Forest

11 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet in front of the Visitor Center

Explore the park’s wilderness and wildlife, and earn your Junior Ranger badge. Come prepared to spend time outside. Children and their grown ups should attend together.

Fri, March 20

Basic Survival for Kids

2-3 p.m. Meet at Visitor Center

How do you prepare for a hike? What should you pack? What do you do if you get lost? Learn survival skills everyone can use. This program is geared towards kids and their guardians, but all are welcome. Ages 5 and up.

Sat, March 21

Guided Nature Hike

9-11 a.m. Meet at Elk Meadow Trailhead

Discover what plants and animals you can see this time of year along the trail on this 2 mile loop. Bring layers, water, and sturdy footwear. Spikes and hiking poles may be useful. Led by volunteer naturalist, Penny.

Sat, March 21

Junior Rangers on the Trail

11 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet at Outlook Ridge Trailhead

Have you ever wanted to learn more about the forest and hiking at Mueller State Park? Hike to the first outlook, learn about hiking safety and become a Junior Ranger. Best for ages 6-12, but all are welcome. Children and their grown ups should attend together.
Fri, March 27

Nature Crafts

2-3 p.m. Meet at the Visitor Center

Get your creative juices flowing by making art using items found in nature. This program welcomes kids and adults of all ages