Cottonwood Gulch Annual Appeal

Cottonwood Gulch Annual Appeal:
Why the Trek Still Matters

 

The Cottonwood Gulch annual appeal arrives at a meaningful moment as we prepare to celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2026. Over the past year, our Director has traveled across the country, from Santa Fe to Boston, reconnecting with alumni and listening to why the Gulch continues to matter in their lives. Again and again, one theme surfaced: Cottonwood Gulch is not just a program, but a way of being in the natural world.

Many alumni describe the Gulch simply as “the Trek.” That simple phrase is meaningful because the experience of being here is more than just a summer camp or a backpacking trip. It is a place, an activity, and a way of living that brings life into sharper focus. Our very special treks add both clarity and complexity and succeed in challenging trekkers to engage deeply with themselves, one another, and the incredible land where we live and explore.

As we approach a century of teaching and exploration, the question to answer as you consider giving to our mission is: why is Cottonwood Gulch still important today?

Connection and Community

When trekkers arrive at the Gulch, something powerful happens. Community forms quickly and authentically. Music is shared, friendships take root, and meals become celebrations. Food tastes better when it’s cooked and eaten together after a full day outdoors. These shared moments create bonds that often last a lifetime.

Presence and Health

One of the most consistent reflections we hear is how rare true presence has become. At the Gulch, days end around a campfire, not glued to a screen in isolation. Trekkers connect with breathtaking landscapes and fascinating people, rediscovering the simple truth that time outside is good for both body and mind. A Gulch Trek offers space to slow down, breathe deeply, and be fully present within our community.

Growth and Learning

Learning at Cottonwood Gulch looks different and that’s intentional. Trekkers are guided by inspiring mentors who model curiosity, resilience, and care for the world around them. Participants engage with Southwest history in all its beauty, complexity, and challenge, while learning alongside people from different backgrounds and perspectives.

In a rapidly changing world, embracing physical, intellectual, and social challenges builds confidence and adaptability and reminds us that learning can be deeply joyful. The independence that is gained at the Gulch is incomparable and stays with trekkers for a lifetime.

Why Your Support of the Cottonwood Gulch Annual Appeal Matters

The Cottonwood Gulch annual appeal helps ensure this kind of transformative experience remains accessible for future generations. Your support sustains our programs, supports our exceptional staff, and protects the land and communities that make the Trek possible. Most importantly, it allows us to continue offering something increasingly rare: real connection, real learning, and real presence.

As we look ahead to our centennial year, we invite you to support what has made Cottonwood Gulch meaningful for nearly 100 years and what will carry it forward into the next century.

Screens off. Trek on.

 

Learn more about our latest programs and 100th Anniversary events.