This summer, we’re excited to launch something new for our middle- and high school-aged campers: the Cheley Running Club. Designed as an optional afternoon activity, the club gives campers a chance to stay active, build confidence, and experience the beauty of the Colorado Rockies one stride at a time.
Running at Cheley isn’t about racing to the finish. It’s about feeling strong, moving with purpose, and enjoying the rhythm of the trail, all in a supportive, non-pressured environment.
When It Happens
The Running Club meets after daily camp programming, during Rest Hour and Free Time (around 3:15–4:30pm). That means it doesn’t replace any regular unit activities. It simply offers another way to engage with the Cheley Experience in the afternoons, before dinner and evening campfire.
Campers will have time for a light pre-run snack, and we’ll prioritize hydration, sunscreen, and pacing, especially as everyone adjusts to running at elevation.
Who It’s For
The Cheley Running Club is open to campers in Ski Hi, Chipeta, Haiyaha, and Senior Chipeta. Campers at Boys’ Trail’s End and Girls’ Trail’s End will have a separate running option. Whether your camper runs track at school or is just curious about trail running, this program is designed to meet them where they are. We’ll offer two levels to help support different goals and experience levels:
- Level 1: Steady Striders – For campers newer to running or just looking to stay active.
- Level 2: Developing/Competitive Runners – For campers who train regularly or want to maintain fitness for sports.
What to Expect
The club meets 2–4 afternoons per week, and each session will start with a warm-up and group stretch before heading out on a trail. Runs will vary in focus and format, including:
- Endurance runs on camp trails
- Interval or hill workouts (adjusted for experience)
- Recovery jogs and fun run games
- Trail adventure runs and scavenger hunts
- An optional 5K or fun run toward the end of the term
Campers will be placed in groups based on a mix of self-assessment and staff observation, with a focus on effort and enjoyment, not pace or competition. This is about feeling good in your body, connecting with others, and embracing the spirit of running in nature.
Why Elevation Matters
Running at 8,000+ feet isn’t just scenic, it’s a natural performance booster. Training at elevation can improve aerobic capacity, endurance, and mental grit, making it an excellent opportunity for athletes preparing for cross-country, track, or other sports. That said, the focus of the Cheley Running Club isn’t competition, it’s healthy growth. Staff will guide campers through proper acclimation, hydration, and pacing, helping every runner feel supported as they adapt to high-altitude movement.
What Campers Need
- Comfortable, broken-in running shoes
- Athletic clothing
- A small gym bag or drawstring pack
- Curiosity, community, and a willingness to grow
The Cheley Running Club is one more way we’re helping campers explore new trails, both on the map and within themselves.
Have questions? Reach out to Shawn Ness.
