We believe that a small group experience in the wilderness provides a unique opportunity for kids to discover what they are capable of. We know that backpacking provides youth the opportunity to become more responsible, tolerant, kind, and self-confident individuals. We also believe that along with these skills comes a love and appreciation for the natural world that never fades.
Since 1979, Sonlight Camp has been guiding youth on backpack trips. We know that trips are life changing.
Arrival is Sunday afternoon, 4:30-5:30 at the main Sonlight Camp. We'll gather, then move to the Adventure base for orientation and beginning trip prep.
Departure is from the Adventure Base, departure days vary for each trip.
All Adventure Trip participants are required to complete the online Health Form and online Authorization Form. You'll find forms and links in your Camp In Touch portal.
To comply with Colorado State childcare regulations, high school and youth participants also need a physical exam from a healthcare provider (MD, PA or Nurse Practitioner) and documentation of current immunization status.
Food is a priority for Sonlight. We aim to serve thoughtfully prepared food with the best ingredients we can on the trail, given the limitations of one pot cooking, weight and no refrigeration. We understand that dietary needs and preferences are personal and diverse. From allergies to lifestyle choices our staff is dedicated to accommodating special dietary requirements - gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian - the best we are able given trail limitations. We may ask participants to supplement snacks.
Sonlight provides all the gear that you will need for your specific adventure. Backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, sleeping pads, bicycles, helmets, cooking and eating utensils, food and snacks. Big Agnes and Osprey are the primary brands we use. Gear is brand new every couple of years. You may certainly bring your own gear, the Adventure staff will determine if it is appropriate for the trip. The most important things you'll have to provide is waterproof and warm layers as well as boots or trail shoes.
Two Sonlight guides accompany each trip, providing trail knowledge. Guides challenge participants in their backpack trek and allow time to explore faith through the journey.
CONTACT INFO
1536 Sonlight Place
PO Box 536 (USPS)
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Be With kids. Show Them God.
Caretaker
Thom’s Sonlight connection began in 1990 when he brought youth from the Phoenix area to ski; that trip continued for the next 18 years every March. He then participated in a handful of adult backpacking trips before extending an offer to volunteer in the off season. After almost a decade of spending chunks of May volunteering he now calls Sonlight home year round serving “wherever is needed”.
Thom holds a BS in Communications from the University of Puget Sound as well as a MDiv from Luther Seminary, which led to his 35 years as a Lutheran Pastor. The initial driving factor of finding the best way to be in service to others was evident in his ministerial work and has translated significantly to his contributions at Sonlight in retirement.
When not fixing things or working on new projects Thom enjoys golfing, cheering on San Francisco sports teams, and playing the guitar. He has three grown children and two grandchildren.
Co-founding Sonlight in 1979 with his wife, Mary, the calling that began simply as a “small, summer only backpacking program” that turned into what so many call home today can be accredited in part to the faithfulness of Winston. His passion to creatively solve problems and find solutions is evident in all parts of camp. An avid backpacker himself, he also enjoys bike touring and has logged over 14,000 on his touring bike. Nowadays, he serves as Board Treasurer and Camps ultimate human resource, providing insight to all things property and Sonlight history.
Winston earned his BS degree in Social Psychology from Colorado State University. He began working for Presbyterian Highlands Camp before deciding to start his own program, with a lot in between it's probably just easiest to say “and the rest is history”!
In his free time Winston enjoys traveling, spending time in the backcountry, and befriending as many furry friends as possible. You’ll find him around camp with a cup of coffee and Truman by his side.
Camp Director
From her middle school years as a Sonlight camper to spending her college summers on Summer Staff to then joining the full-time team as Program Director, Claire can’t imagine any other way to spend her summers! Now, as Camp Director, she continues to bring Sonlight’s vision of creating a community of well-being to life through her gifts of strategic planning, creativity, and intentionality.
Claire holds a BS in Psychology from Regis University, where she spent much of her time involved in University Ministry. She served as a Peer Minister to first-year students and coordinated opportunities for fellow students to discover how they were being called to use their gifts in service to others.
When she’s not immersed in the camp world, Claire enjoys reading, just about any outdoor activity, and spending time with her three-year-old kitten, Frankie.
