History

Sandy and Laura Sanborn, founders of Sanborn Western Camps, conceived of the idea of using their summer camp property and facilities for outdoor educational programs 19 years after founding and establishing a summer camp program in central Colorado.  In 1967, they opened the High Trails Outdoor Education Center, offering learning experiences in the outdoor classroom for students from schools across Colorado.  Since then, over 100,000 students have passed through High Trails.  Some who started as students have even returned as teachers.  The property and organization has also been designated as a National Environmental Study Area by the U.S. Department of the Interior.

Sandy Sanborn, a 10th Mountain Division Ranger and American hero in World War II, trained at Camp Hale near Leadville.  Today we use the story of the 10th as a tool for teaching leadership skills.

We are constantly developing our curriculum and our facilities, offering new areas of learning to address present-day challenges while continuing to provide the memorable cabins, food, and scenery that have impacted so many people.  While much has changed over the years, our core mission remains the same, and we strive to make an impact on our community and the world through what we do.