Join us in Albuquerque for our last Regional Rendezvous before we celebrate our 100th Reunion this summer. This event will feature local flavor, inspiring trek stories, opportunities to connect with fellow Gulch enthusiasts, and a discussion about where the Gulch is headed in our second century. Click the buttons below to RSVP!
ALBUQUERQUE REGIONAL RENDEZVOUS
APRIL 19th 4pm-7pm
Harwood Art Center
1114 7th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102-2051
GENERAL AGENDA:
- Arrival and Welcome
- Kindred Interests (artifact sharing, storytelling, interactive activities)
- Food and Refreshments
- “State of the Gulch” presentation by Executive Director Jordan Stone and community discussion
- Campfire songs, stories, and games
- Informal gathering continues for those who wish to stay
Registration closes the day before each event. Please let us know if you plan to attend so that we can best prepare for a wonderful evening with our community. Questions about the event? Scroll down for some Regional Rendezvous FAQs and responses.
RSVP FOR ALBUQUERQUE REGIONAL RENDEZVOUS
Regional Rendezvous Events FAQ
What exactly is a Regional Rendezvous?
Regional Rendezvous events are gatherings across the country celebrating Cottonwood Gulch’s 100th anniversary. These events help us reconnect with the values we learned on treks—environmental stewardship, self-reliance, inclusivity, community support, and more—and find ways to sustain these values in our daily lives. Also, there will be merriment and good food.
What will we do at the event?
Each Regional Rendezvous will follow a similar format, with opportunities for connection, reflection, and celebration.
Sample Agenda:
- 4:00-4:30 PM: Arrival and Welcome
- 4:30-5:00 PM: Kindred Interests (artifact sharing, storytelling, interactive activities)
- 5:00-5:30 PM: Food and Refreshments
- 5:30-6:00 PM: “State of the Gulch” presentation by Executive Director Jordan Stone and community discussion
- 6:00-7:00 PM: Campfire songs, stories, and games
- 7:00 PM: Informal gathering continues for those who wish to stay
Will there be Food & Drinks?
Yes, the Gulch will provide food and drinks for everyone. We’ll have options to accommodate common dietary restrictions.
Will I have to do KP or other details?
Most definitely! It wouldn’t be a Gulch event without everyone pitching in.
What should I bring to share?
We encourage you to bring Gulch memorabilia to share:
Trek logs, photos, etc: Include a brief note about when and where they’re from
Art: Art you made or purchased during your Trek. Include artist and tribal information if known (no funerary objects or archaeological artifacts please)
Musical instruments: For the campfire session
Friends and Family: Who want to Learn about the Gulch experience
Should I prepare anything in advance?
While not required, consider reflecting on your Gulch experience before attending. You might want to prepare a brief story or memory to share during our storytelling activities.
Is there a dress code?
Casual and comfortable clothing is perfect. Vintage Gulch clothing is encouraged.
Is this a fundraising event?
While there will be information available about supporting the Gulch’s future, including our planned giving campaign, fundraising is not the primary purpose of these gatherings. We rely on generous donors to keep our programs strong, and we will encourage everyone to donate what they can, but the focus is on community and celebration.
Should you attend a Regional Rendezvous? Let’s find out…
“I’m 25 and only worked one summer at the Gulch.” → Absolutely! No minimum Gulch experience level is needed.
“I’m 87 and haven’t been to a Gulch event in decades.” → We’ve saved you a seat! Your perspective bridges our past to our future.
“I’m 16 and went on one school trek for 3 days.” → Yes! Come see how that brief adventure connects to something much bigger.
“I’m married to a Gulch alum who wants me to meet their Gulch friends…” → Welcome! The Gulch experience is meant to be shared.
“I have no connection to the Gulch and don’t enjoy the outdoors.” → While we’d serve you delicious food, you might find more joy elsewhere.
“I’m 13 and my mom keeps telling me about this amazing trek experience from ‘ancient history’.” → Yes! Come discover what made such a lasting impression.
“I can’t disconnect from my phone for more than 7 minutes without getting anxious and sweaty.” → These gatherings celebrate human connection over digital ones. If you’re ready for that challenge, we welcome you (and yes, bring an extra shirt!)
“I want to attend solely to critique how outdoor education has changed since I was a trekker.” → These events focus on celebration rather than criticism, so perhaps sit this one out.
“I’m 48 and went to the Gulch as a teenager, but I’m worried everyone else will know each other.” → Come! The Gulch connection bridges decades and differences quickly.
“I love the Gulch, but I don’t have money to donate.” → Not a problem. These events are primarily about community. Your presence is what matters most!
“I want to learn more about adding the Gulch to my estate plans.” → We’d be honored to discuss how your legacy can support future generations of Gulch experiences.
I have more questions that aren’t answered here. Who should I contact?
Please email jordan@cottonwoodgulch.org or call our office at (505) 248-0563.
Upcoming Events: 2026 Community Opportunities
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR VOLUNTEER WORK WEEKEND: 4/24-4/26
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE 100th REUNION: 8/14 – 8/16
SUMMER 2026 ENROLLMENT IS OPEN!
We are so excited for our 100th summer! It’s never to early to apply for your trekker’s summer adventure, and our enrollment is open! Click on the button below to learn about our summer treks and which one is the perfect fit for the Gulch trekker in your life! From fossil hunting, to backpacking the Rocky mountains, from Basecamp shenanigans to Mt Taylor sunrise summits, we are thrilled to share our centennial summer with YOU!
LEARN ABOUT SUMMER 2026 TREKS
Did you know?
Most planned gifts support our endowment, which was established in 2001 and currently stands at $2.6 million. We distribute 3-5% annually to support our programs, while the rest is invested in diversified funds that have grown at an average rate of 8% since inception. Your contributions go directly to helping our legacy live on.
Establish your planned gift here.
