2021 Heart-J Experience

Heart-J Experience ~ 2021 Program Series

It's time to get outside!

Join us to explore the wonders

of Sylvan Dale Ranch ...

where learning comes naturally.

Heart-J Center is ready to make 2021 a great year! We've designed a series of 2-hour outdoor programs that will open your eyes to the amazing history, geology, wildlife, ranching life, wellness, and creative opportunities here on our 3,000 acre outdoor classroom and living laboratory. Give archery a try, or rock climbing. Meet some cows and calves. Make art, watch hawks soar, and rejuvenate yourself in this serene, peaceful, and restorative place.

Get outside and get connected --

to nature and yourself!

With 3,000 acres of scenic foothills and pastureland we are committed to providing an experience that connects you with the land, with yourself, and with the Northern Colorado community.

Adult programs are for ages 18+

and cost $15 per person.

Programs marked *KIDS/FAMILIES* mean that all ages are welcome. Kids and teens 17 and younger are welcome at no charge. Children must be accompanied by parent, guardian, or caregiver.

Details

Buy 6 programs, get one free! Get a package for yourself or give the gift of memorable experiences

(look for the gift box below)!

K-12 teachers: save 50% when you register by using the code TEACH.

HJC's No Worries Policy: We realize that the coming months are unpredictable. If your plans change and you are unable to attend the program you signed up for, let us know and we'll change your registration to an upcoming program or refund your payment in full and assign your spot to the next person on the waiting list.

Special Offers

COVID Smart

With the wide open spaces of Sylvan Dale as our classroom, the Heart-J Center is uniquely situated to provide COVID SMART experiences for the whole family!

We're doing our best to keep our guests and staff safe, while also providing unforgettable Heart-J experiences!

The programs below are:

Outside
Socially distanced
Masks required
Limited registration numbers aligning with county guidelines.

Upcoming Programs

Buy 6, Get 1 Free
Fri, Jan 01
Sylvan Dale Ranch/Heart-J Center
Jan 01, 2021, 1:00 AM – Dec 31, 2021, 11:00 PM
Sylvan Dale Ranch/Heart-J Center, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Give the gift of outdoor experiences (to yourself and your loved ones!). So many adventures to choose from -- this gift is sure to delight.

*Kids/Families* Who Goes There? Winter Tracking for the Family!
Sat, Feb 13
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Feb 13, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MST
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Learn how to be a nature detective as we look for the may signs that animals leave behind. Our expert naturalist will take you on a short walk and help you understand the stories that animals tell us even when we can't see them!

Beginner Archery
Sat, Feb 20
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Feb 20, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MST
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
This introduction to archery course will include range safety, bow basics, and plenty of time on the range getting comfortable shooting arrows! This class is intended for beginner archers and/or those with little to no experience.

Hike for your Health - Exploring Sylvan Dale's Sulzer Gulch
Sat, Feb 27
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Feb 27, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MST
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Come clear your mind, stretch your legs, and breath in the fresh air as we hike and explore Sylvan Dale’s Sulzer Gulch! We will cover approximately 3 miles of easy/moderate terrain. You’re sure to leave feeling invigorated and refreshed!

Mandala Rock Painting
Sat, Feb 27
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Feb 27, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MST
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
The art of the mandala began as a spiritual symbol in Buddhism and Hinduism, but as this creative practice spread, “mandala” became a general term for geometrical patterns. This beginner class will share the tools and techniques of Mandala Rock Painting. Supplies provided.

Awaken the Senses Hike - A Sensory Perception Experience
Sat, Mar 06
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Mar 06, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MST
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Come engage your senses and breath in the fresh air as we hike and explore Sylvan Dale’s Sulzer Gulch! We will work to purposefully engage with our five senses in stillness before hiking in silence to be fully present with our surroundings. We'll cover approximately 3 miles of easy/moderate terrain.

*Kids/Families* Guided Adventure Trail - Exploring Sylvan Dale Ranch!
Sat, Mar 13
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Mar 13, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MST
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Sylvan Dale’s resident naturalist, Dave Armstrong, and Heart-J Center’s Laura Armstrong will share entertaining and informative stories of Sylvan Dale -- from the human history to the natural history -- as we walk together along the beautiful Big Thompson River.

Backpacking Basics 101
Sat, Mar 20
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Mar 20, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Get into nature and get away from the crowds! Backpacking is your ticket. We'll start with the basics, discussing the importance of proper planning, equipment selection, and packing for a multi-day outing. This is the perfect primer for a spring break or early summer backcountry adventure!

The Amazing Adventures of Isabella Bird
Wed, Mar 24
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Mar 24, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Isabella Bird was an intrepid English traveler who visited this area in 1873. Here on the Ranch, Miss Bird stayed in a three-room boarding house owned by the Alexander family. She was one of the first women to climb Longs Peak and the first woman elected to England’s Royal Geographical Society.

Walk with a Rancher: Exploring Sylvan Dale’s Big Valley
Sat, Mar 27
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Mar 27, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Are you interested in learning about small scale, sustainable ranching? If so, spend the morning walking Sylvan Dale’s Big Valley and talking with Josh Ciardullo, owner of a local family owned ranch!

Winter Watercolor
Sat, Mar 27
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Mar 27, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Learn easy and cool watercolor techniques to capture the beauty and light of winter scenes. This class is intended for beginner watercolor artists and/or those with little to no experience.

*Kids/Families* Sylvan Dale Ranch Wildlife Safari Hike!
Sat, Apr 03
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Apr 03, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
How do the wildlife and ecosystems of Africa and the wildlife and ecosystems of Sylvan Dale compare? This program combines a short slide presentation on African wildlife and an easy hike exploring Sylvan Dale’s natural habitat.

Alexander's Footsteps: Historic Logging
Sat, Apr 10
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Apr 10, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
The Alexander family homesteaded on what is now Sylvan Dale Ranch in the late 19th century. Logging was their business, and you can still see the hand-hewn stumps of trees cut down 150 years ago. Learn about the past and consider the future of sustainable resource use.

Backpacking Basics 201
Sat, Apr 17
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Apr 17, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Backpacking Basics 201 will dive deeper into backcountry navigation, route planning, meal planning, and logistical support. If you’re considering a multi-week or multi-month through hike or other type of backcountry expedition, this workshop will give you tools to be successful.

Spring on the Wing: Birding for Beginners
Sat, Apr 24
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Apr 24, 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Sylvan Dale Ranch is a birder’s paradise year-round and especially active in April, when resident bird species are joined by migrating species, just passing through. Join local birding expert Denise Bretting to learn the ins and outs of Colorado birding.

*Kids/Families* Calves & Cattle Rustlin'!
Sat, Apr 24
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Apr 24, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Join this family friendly, fresh air workshop where you’ll spend the morning with Josh Ciardullo learning about calves and cattle rustlin’!

Acrylic Paint Pour
Sat, Apr 24
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Apr 24, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Acrylic Paint Pour is a fun and colorful way to explore what gravity does to paint on canvas. This class is intended for beginners and those with some experience.

Nature Journaling
Sat, May 08
Sylvan Dale Ranch
May 08, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Come discover the inspiration you can find in nature! Whether you’re a regular journaler or would like to start, give yourself the gift of creativity and connection in the outdoors. No previous writing or sketching experience required.

Basic Land Navigation: Map & Compass 101
Sat, May 15
Sylvan Dale Ranch
May 15, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
This land navigation workshop is intended for those with little to no experience and will introduce participants to map and compass basics. After covering some of the basics we’ll break into small groups to stretch our legs and practice our navigation skills on the Sylvan Dale orienteering course!

*Kids/Families* Ranch Livin' & Fireside Cookout for the Family!
Sat, May 22
Sylvan Dale Ranch
May 22, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Come spend the morning getting a taste of ranch life in Sylvan Dale’s Big Valley! We’ll have family friendly games and activities, and everyone will have the chance to cook over the fire! You’ll make memories that are sure to have the whole family smiling!

How the Ranch Was Won: The Story of Sylvan Dale Ranch
Sat, May 22
Sylvan Dale Ranch
May 22, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Sylvan Dale Ranch has an amazing story! The Ranch is 75 years old this year. Enjoy the stories, places, and historic photos that tell the tale of an audacious dream that’s grown into a beloved place for generations of visitors.

*Kids/Families* Camping 101: Kids Exploring Their World
Wed, May 26
Sylvan Dale Ranch
May 26, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Is your family curious about camping? It's easy when you know what to do! Join 8 year old Cash, and his dad Silas, for a fun morning learning about campsite selection, camp setup, and ideas for exploring the natural world around your camp. This is the perfect primer for family camping adventures!

*Kids/Families* The Bird is the Word: Family Birding Adventure
Sat, May 29
Sylvan Dale Ranch
May 29, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Sylvan Dale is a birder’s paradise year-round and especially active in May, when resident bird species are joined by migrating species, just passing through. Join local birding expert Scott Rashid to learn about Colorado birding and bird banding!

Macrame Basics: Wall Hanging
Sat, May 29
Sylvan Dale Ranch
May 29, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Get started with macrame! This class is for beginners and those with some experience. You'll learn basic knots and get full instructions to continue your projects at home. Supplies included.

*Kids/Families* Explore Sylvan Dale’s Ranch Land Wildlife
Sat, Jun 05
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jun 05, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Come spend the morning exploring Sylvan Dale’s Big Valley and learning about the wild animals that call this place home, and why they're so important for the ecosystem. You’ll walk and talk with Josh Ciardullo, owner of a local family owned ranch.

*Kids/Families* Guided Adventure Trail - Exploring Sylvan Dale Ranch!
Wed, Jun 09
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jun 09, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Sylvan Dale’s resident naturalist, Dave Armstrong, and Heart-J Center’s Laura Armstrong will share entertaining and informative stories of Sylvan Dale -- from the human history to the natural history -- as we walk together along the beautiful Big Thompson River.

Geology of Sylvan Dale: the Ranch’s Time Machine
Sat, Jun 12
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jun 12, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Accompanied by an expert naturalist, you’ll see the ancient story of the land, including 300 million year old sandstone and 1.75 billion year old granite -- some of the oldest exposed rock in Colorado! You’ll also learn how geology affects the different habitats on the Ranch.

Outdoor Survival: Ten Essentials & Tarp Shelters
Sat, Jun 12
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jun 12, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
In this program we’ll look at the Ten Essential items needed for every backcountry adventure. In the first hour we'll look at examples of each item, discussing applications in field-based settings. The second hour will cover tarp shelters, where everyone will try setting up their own shelter!

Beginner Yoga: Heartsong Yoga at Sylvan Dale
Sat, Jun 19
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jun 19, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
This basic yoga class will be done at a gentle pace, moving through some of the foundational poses of yoga. Participants will practice flowing through the poses using breathing techniques. Come enjoy complete relaxation and rejuvenation in a serene and non-judgmental setting.

Spring Wildflower & Ecology Walk at Sylvan Dale Ranch
Sat, Jun 19
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jun 19, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Join local naturalist Stephanie Polutchko to explore the spring blooms of Sylvan Dale. Learn how to identify flowers that are new to you and observe why Sylvan Dale’s location presents a unique mix of flora.

First Peoples: 10,000 Years on the Land
Sat, Jun 26
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jun 26, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Sylvan Dale Ranch is beautiful and abundant, so don’t be surprised to learn that people have lived here for over 10,000 years! Join educator Treloar Bower from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science to learn about the peoples who made this valley home.

Ceramic Bird Houses
Sat, Jun 26
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jun 26, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
In this class you'll create a ceramic birdhouse out of extruded clay. When you're done, we'll fire and glaze your creation which will be ready for you to pick up in two weeks. This class is intended for beginners and those with some experience. Supplies provided.

Beginner Rock Climbing
Sat, Jul 10
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jul 10, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
This program is designed to get you up and climbing right away! We will cover climbing safety, equipment, belay technique, and movement in a top rope setting. After covering the basics we’ll climb Sylvan Dale’s top rope routes overlooking the Big Thompson river!

Think Like a Farmer: A Discussion on Resilience & Sustainability
Sat, Jul 17
Sylvan Dale Ranch
Jul 17, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MDT
Sylvan Dale Ranch, 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland, CO 80538, USA
Interested in learning about developing your own small scale, resilient and sustainable farm or ranch? If so, join this program where you’ll spend the morning in Sylvan Dale’s Big Valley with Josh Ciardullo, owner of a local family owned ranch!