Summer tips for parents from an educator and triathlete

5 Colorado Trails Teens Will Love This Summer to Get Them Off the Screen and Outside:Tips from an Online Educator and Triathlete

Teri Cady, Executive Director at Destinations Career Academy of Colorado in Westminster, Colorado, has served in this position since August 2016. She has been in education for more than 20 years as a science teacher, a high school principal, and as head of school at Destinations Career Academy of Colorado. Mrs. Cady is passionate about helping students explore their opportunities in and out of school, realize their extraordinary potential, and help prepare them for success in college and career. Mrs. Cady strongly believes that our students are our most important investment in the future of our world.

For teens spending more time online than outdoors, a good hike might be just what they need to reset, recharge, and reconnect with nature. According to Mrs. Cady, a seasoned educator, outdoor enthusiast, and triathlete, summer is the perfect time to take learning off the screen and onto the trail.

Here are five teen-approved Colorado hikes that are scenic, accessible, and educational:

1. Chautauqua Trail, Boulder

Perfect for beginners, this iconic hike offers stunning Flatirons views and plenty of wildlife sightings. Great for teaching teens about local geology and ecosystems.

2. Paint Mines Interpretive Park, Calhan

A unique blend of hiking and natural history, the colorful clay formations are a favorite among teen hikers and budding photographers.

3. Devil’s Head Lookout, Pike National Forest

A 2.8-mile out-and-back trail ending in a historic fire tower. Teens will love the adventure—and the 360-degree view at the top is a bonus science lesson in elevation and weather.

4. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

This world-renowned site offers short trails and towering red rocks. Encourage students to identify rock formations and native plants.

5. Alderfer/Three Sisters Park, Evergreen

With miles of loop trails, this destination combines moderate elevation with shady forests—ideal for teens seeking solitude or a group hike with friends.

Mrs. Cady’s Educator-Approved Tip: Give your screens a break this summer, take learning outside!

“Hiking is a great way to blend physical movement with real-world science. Encourage students to bring a notebook or take photos to document plants, animals, and terrain.Later, they can research what they saw and turn it into a mini learning experience of their own.”

Encouraging teens to step away from screens and into nature fosters not only physical wellness but also curiosity and a sense of adventure. This summer, trade homework for trail maps and help students discover how fun and educational the great outdoors can be.

At Destinations Career Academy of Colorado (CODCA), students in grades 4-12 receive a career-focused, tuition-free online education designed to help them explore future opportunities. CODCA combines traditional academics with hands-on career readiness programs, preparing students to graduate with industry skills and certifications. Powered by K12, a Stride, Inc. portfolio brand, CODCA benefits from 25 years of leadership in online learning. Learn more at codca.k12.com.