header-maroon bells in autumn

Adventure Preview FAQ

If you have questions about Adventure Previews at Denver Seminary, you've come to the right place. Click on the dates to register for any of the previews -- space is limited for the adventure portion, so it's important to sign up early! Here are the Adventure Previews:

Snowshoe Adventure Preview

Adventure Preview Dates

Where are we going and how will we get there?

We will snowshoe in the Bear Lake area of Rocky Mountain National Park, located about 90 minutes from the Seminary. It's an amazingly beautiful place: deep green forests, glacier carved valleys, jagged peaks and abundant wildlife. We will travel together from campus in vans provided by the Seminary.

What if I've never snowshoed before?

No problem. It's true: if you can walk, you can shoe. Your trip leader will provide you with quality snowshoes, instruction, and encouragement. We will stay together as a group.

Do I have to be physically fit?

Yes, reasonably so. We will cover short distances, stay mostly on trails, and avoid steep slopes. Exact distance is dependant on weather, snow conditions and the group.

Will I have problems with altitude?

Not likely. We will be snowshoeing at about 10,000 feet, but we will not travel great distances or travel quickly. We will take breaks whenever anyone needs one. Staying well hydrated is the key to avoiding high altitude headaches. When first visiting the area, many people feel either slightly out of breath or a reduced ability to perform physically. That's a natural response to the thinner air. But God designed our bodies to acclimatize to higher altitudes. If you experience any discomfort during this trip, it is important that you inform your trip leader. Please help us to care for you.

What do I need to bring?

Bring a wind-proof outer layer for your upper and lower body, insulating layers, a warm hat, mittens or warm gloves, non-cotton socks, hiking boots, and sunglasses. Your trip leader can provide extra clothing on a first-come basis, and winter boots can be rented for you. Also bring a water bottle or some type of hydration system. When snowshoeing, lunch begins right after breakfast and ends right before dinner. This is not a good time to fast or diet. Bring a camera if you have one! Also, if you have a day pack please bring it along. Sorry: no dogs and please leave your iPod or other personal music device behind.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Jim Doenges is your trip leader and you can contact him at or 303-594-8113. Jim is a certified Wilderness First Responder, Avalanche Professional and LNT Master Educator with a Master of Science degree in Biology. He serves as a mentor at Denver Seminary and is a licensed lay minister with over 20 years of outdoor leadership experience.

Return to the top of the page or the Adventure Previews page 

Hiking Loch Vale in Rocky Mountain National Park

Adventure Preview Dates

Where are we going and how will we get there?

We will be going to spectacular Rocky Mountain National Park, located about 90 minutes from the Seminary. We will enjoy a hike of less than 3 miles (each way) with about 1,200 feet of elevation gain to a spectacular alpine lake where we will enjoy lunch. Views will include aspens, evergreen forests, wildflowers, mountain streams, and snow-draped peaks of the continental divide.

Do I have to be physically fit?

No, but a moderate fitness level will enable you to better experience God’s creation. We will hike at a moderate pace, take breaks, and stay together as a group.

Will I have problems with altitude?

We will hike up to an elevation of about 10,200 feet. When first visiting the area, many people feel either slightly out of breath or a reduced ability to perform physically. That’s a natural response to the thinner air. But God designed our bodies to acclimatize to higher altitudes. Staying well hydrated is the key to avoiding high altitude headaches. If you experience any discomfort during this trip, it is important that you inform your Trip Leader. Please help us to care for you.

What do I need to bring?

Bring a water-proof outer layer for your upper body, insulating layers, warm hat, sunglasses, noncotton socks, and a day pack. Waterproof hiking boots are best, as we may encounter some snow on the trail near the lake. Shorts are OK, but you should bring wind pants too. Bring a camera if you have one! Sorry: no dogs and please leave your iPod or other personal music device behind.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Jim Doenges is your Trip Leader and you can contact him at or 303-594-8113. Jim is a certified Wilderness First Responder, and LNT Master Educator with a Master of Science degree in Biology. He serves as a mentor at Denver Seminary and is a licensed lay minister with over 20 years of outdoor leadership experience.