Every year, Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) offers an intensive Summer Naturalist program based at Hallam Lake, our visitor center and 25-acre nature preserve in the heart of Aspen. Summer Naturalists receive valuable training and experience while leading guided hikes and conducting environmental education programs at Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, the Maroon Bells, ACES sites, and other iconic locations around Aspen. The Summer Naturalist program has a dual purpose. First, ACES aims to provide the best possible education and workplace experience to Naturalists. The second goal is to provide informative and inspiring environmental education to a broad audience through ACES’ daily guided tours.
Since 1985, over 400 Naturalists have participated in this respected program, moving on to meaningful careers as teachers, wildlife biologists, university professors, environmental lawyers, veterinarians, non-profit administrators, sustainability experts, and more. More than 80% of all ACES employees first join the organization through the Summer Naturalist position, including many of our junior administrative staff who focus on community programs, public relations, development, and finance.
