We’re One Step Closer to Protecting Wildcat Regional Park!
The vision for Wildcat Regional Park continues to move in the right direction—away from an intensely developed regional park and toward a thoughtfully designed, passive park that reflects the conservation, education, and recreation values of the Backcountry Wilderness Area.
Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) has a great deal of exciting activity taking place across our recreation centers and community spaces—both indoors and outdoors. From the completion of the Westridge Recreation Center renovation to the ongoing Wildcat Regional Park project, which is in the exciting phase of the Community Involvement Process (CIP), where residents are encouraged to learn more about the project and provide input on the conceptual plan that is being designed. HRCA continues to invest in the future of Highlands Ranch with projects that enhance the quality of life for all residents.
These initiatives are just two examples of our ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving the amenities that make our community so special. None of this progress would be possible without your trust, patience, and engagement. Your understanding during construction, your feedback during planning, and your enthusiasm for what’s ahead all play an essential role in shaping facilities and programs that truly reflect the needs and values of Highlands Ranch.
As we move forward, HRCA Leadership remains deeply appreciative of the residents, partners, and teams who make these accomplishments possible. Together, we are ensuring Highlands Ranch remains a vibrant, active, and connected community for generations to come.
On behalf of the entire HRCA team, thank you for being such an integral part of what makes Highlands Ranch exceptional. We are proud to serve you and look forward to celebrating these exciting milestones together in the months ahead.
My best, Mike Bailey CEO/General Manager Highlands Ranch Community Association
Wildcat Regional Park Project
Continued from page 1.
Douglas County and the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) partnered to preserve 202 acres of open space known as Wildcat Regional Park. The proposed passive trail system will strike a balance between recreation and preservation, providing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to hike, bike, and connect with nature—while protecting vital wildlife and habitat.
We’ve now reached the final step of the process: approval through the Community Involvement Process (CIP). The CIP ensures that the community has both proper notice and the opportunity to share feedback on any major Backcountry Wilderness Area project or development.
Here’s how the process works:
• The project proposal is first reviewed by the Board of Directors for action.
• It then moves to the community delegates for a presentation and a vote.
• If approved, a public meeting follows—open to everyone to learn more and offer input.
• Finally, the proposal returns to the delegates and board for a final review and vote.
Join us for a public meeting on Wednesday, November 12, from 6–7 p.m. at the Southridge Recreation Center to share your input and help shape the future of Wildcat Regional Park. The CIP process will conclude with the Delegate and Board meetings on Tuesday, November 18, where final votes on the project will take place.
For more information, please scan the QR code below.
A Rising Equestrian Star Hometown Highlights
When her family moved from Massachusetts to Colorado during the pandemic, one young girl found a passion that would shape her future. At just six years old, Allie was introduced to horses during quiet walks at a local barn. What started as a way to get out of the house during a time of social distancing quickly became a love that has grown into dedication, discipline, and dreams.
Her journey began with private lessons in the Backcountry Wilderness Areas Equine Program, where she built strong foundations in horsemanship, learning walk, trot, canter, cross rails, and even small jumps. She eagerly participated in after-school clubs, horse camps, and volunteer days, always asking to be around the animals she loved most. While winters sometimes sent her to nearby barns with indoor arenas, she always returned to the Backcountry for the reliable care, safe environment, and the special bond she built with her instructor.
Now, just a few years later, her commitment is paying off. This summer, she entered three competitions, including the prestigious Summer in the Rockies at the Colorado Horse Park in Parker. Competing in her first A-rated show, she earned Reserve Champion in her age group and placed an impressive fifth in a derby against riders of all ages, including adults. Her success reflects not only her skill but also her determination and love for the sport.
Though she and her family now lease their own horse, she hasn’t forgotten her roots. Allie can’t wait to return to the Backcountry when she’s old enough to work or volunteer, giving back to the program that gave her such a strong start.
With her sights set on future competitions and a heart set on helping others discover the joy of horses, this hometown equestrian is a shining example of how passion and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements.
Preventing Pine Beetle Infestations
As the winter season approaches and residents prepare for mountain outings to gather firewood or harvest holiday trees, it’s important to remember the risk posed by mountain pine beetles (MPB). These destructive insects threaten our forests and landscapes—and keeping them out of our community is a responsibility we all share.
What Are Mountain Pine Beetles?
Mountain pine beetles are a bark beetle native to western North America.
According to the Colorado State Forest Service’s annual forest health report, MPB populations continue to grow along the Front Range and in southwest Colorado. Also known as the Black Hills beetle or the Rocky Mountain pine beetle, they attack ponderosa, lodgepole, Scots, and limber pine trees. Once a tree is infested, it is usually not possible to save it.
How to Spot an Infected Tree
• Discolored foliage: Needles fade from green to yellow, then reddish-brown, before turning gray as the tree dies.
• Pitch tubes: Popcorn-shaped masses of resin (brown, pink, or white) on the bark mark beetle entry points.
• Wood-boring sawdust: Fine dust may appear in bark crevices or around the tree base.
• Blue-stained sapwood: A fungus introduced by the beetle may cause sections of wood to turn blue.
Protecting Your Trees
Prevention is the best defense. Healthy, well-maintained trees are less likely to be targeted by beetles. Here are a few steps you can take:
• Keep trees strong by fertilizing, mulching, pruning, and watering, especially during dry conditions.
• Regularly inspect your trees for signs of infestation.
• Avoid storing firewood near healthy trees. Strip bark or burn firewood before spring beetle emergence, or cover stacked wood with two layers of clear 6mm plastic.
• Remove felled and dead trees from your property to reduce beetle habitat.
• Contact a certified arborist to discuss preventative treatments or pest issues.
Together, we can reduce the spread of mountain pine beetles and protect the beauty of our community.
Westridge Recreation Center Completes
Major Refresh Project
The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) is proud to announce the successful completion of the Westridge Recreation Center refresh, a multi-phase renovation project designed to modernize facilities, enhance member experiences, and strengthen community wellness.
The year-long project revitalized key areas of the recreation center, including a fully reimagined lobby and entrance, upgraded youth wing, modernized locker rooms, improved gymnasium and indoor turf spaces, and renovated the indoor and outdoor pump rooms. Members now also benefit from expanded wellness amenities, such as a new infrared sauna and two cold plunge pools.
HRCA strategically chose to complete multiple renovations simultaneously to reduce overall project duration and minimize repeated closures. This approach allowed the community to return more quickly to a fully refreshed facility.
The completed Westridge Recreation Center now stands as a vibrant, modern hub for recreation, wellness, and community connection, reaffirming HRCA’s commitment to providing high-quality facilities for Highlands Ranch residents.
Fiber-Optic Internet Construction Underway
BAM Broadband, a Colorado-based internet provider, is installing fiber-optic service in portions of Highlands Ranch. This work is regulated and permitted by the Highlands Ranch Metropolitan District (HRMD) and Douglas County, not HRCA. BAM is authorized to access public rights-of-way and recorded utility easements, which often extend several feet into front yards. Homeowners cannot restrict access to these areas.
What to Expect
Before construction, BAM provides a mailed notice and a door tag at least 72 hours in advance. Construction typically lasts 8–12 weeks (weather dependent) with a “Construction Complete” tag placed once work finishes. BAM is responsible for restoring landscaping, sod, and irrigation to preconstruction condition. Homeowners should contact BAM directly to report any construction-related damage or repairs needs.
Residents may also notice colored utility markings or flags. These are required under Colorado law to identify buried lines and must remain in place until work is finished. BAM flags are removed by our construction crew once work consludes. BAM is not authorized to remove 811 flags - paint allowed to fade after construction.
Current Status (Oct. 2025)
Completed neighborhoods include Spring Gulch, Westridge Village, Mansion Pointe, Southridge Crossing, Weatherstone, Indigo Hill and a portion of Coventry Ridge, South and Venneford Point. Work is in progress in Coventry Ridge & South, Northridge & South, Venneford Point, South Ranch and Kentley Hills. Upcoming areas include Venneford Ranch, Wyecliff, Clairton, and Wynterbrook & South.
Questions, property concerns, or damage claims? Email support@co.bambroadband.com or call 720-851-1111.
Survey Results Are In: Here’s What’s Next
When the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) asked residents how they stay informed, your responses gave us a clear picture of how our community connects—and how we can keep improving.
According to our recent Communications Survey, 72% of respondents rely on HRCA’s monthly newsletters and the Report from the CEO/GM to learn about business topics, community news and events. Another 56% turn to our seasonal Activity Guides for details about programs, classes, and camps. Your feedback confirms that clear, consistent communication remains a top priority for our members.
With these insights, HRCA’s Marketing and Communications Team will continue to enhance our print publications, keeping them informative and focused on community storytelling. We’ll share more of the people, places, and moments that make Highlands Ranch unique.
At the same time, we’re expanding our digital communications to ensure you have quick access to the most accurate information. Digital platforms—like our website, social media, and email notifications—provide realtime updates about facility closures, weather delays, and event cancellations, helping you plan your day and stay connected wherever you are.
To make sure you never miss important news, visit HRCAonline.org, opt in to digital communications, and follow HRCA on social media for the latest updates and announcements.
Highlands Ranch Community Association
Highlands Ranch Community Association @intheranch
Finally, congratulations to our gift card drawing winners—check your inbox for your notification! Thank you to everyone who participated in the survey. Your input helps us strengthen our communications and continue building a more connected, informed, and engaged community here in Highlands Ranch.
Lighting the Season the Right Way
The holiday season is here, and Highlands Ranch always shines with creativity and festive spirit. As you prepare your displays, please remember the Residential Improvement Guidelines (RIGs) set clear standards for both temporary holiday decorations and permanent lighting systems.
Holiday Display Window – Temporary holiday lighting and decorations are permitted October 1 through January 31 (§2.44.F). This includes string lights, icicles, projectors, inflatables, and yard displays.
Hooks and Clips – Temporary appurtenances such as gutter clips or “teacup” hooks must be removed within 30 days after the holiday (weather permitting). Permanent appurtenances may only be considered by the Architectural Committee based on size, color, and visibility from the street (§2.44.F).
Permanent Eave/Trim Lighting – Systems such as Jellyfish, Gemstone, Oelo, TrimLights, or similar require ARC approval before installation (§2.44.E). Submittals must include a site plan, placement photos, and manufacturer specifications. Approved systems must be installed within the soffit, match soffit color, avoid exposed wires, and direct light downward. Displays must remain static (no flashing or pulsing), with maximum brightness of 15 lumens per LED and shut off by 11 p.m. nightly.
Neighbor Courtesy – Please remember that holiday lights are meant to be enjoyed by all. Excessive brightness, animated patterns, or late-night displays can impact nearby homes. The RIGs require lights be turned off by 11 p.m. to balance holiday cheer with neighborhood comfort (§2.44.E/F).
Prohibited Lighting – Rope lights, LED tape strips, exposed diode strips, and novelty programmable systems are not permitted (§2.44.4).
By following these standards, you help ensure Highlands Ranch remains festive, safe, and beautiful for all. Thank you for doing your part!
ASSESSMENTS
303.471.8815
9568 University Blvd. assessments@hrcaonline.org HRCAonline.org/Assessments
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT SERVICES (CIS)
303.471.8821
9568 University Blvd. covenant@hrcaonline.org HRCAonline.org/Covenant
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Get Ready to Make a Splash in 2026!
Registration opens for January–April Aquatics programs on Monday, November 17.
HRCA offers swim classes for every age and skill level! Youth and adult lessons are taught by certified Starfish Aquatics Institute instructors who make learning fun, safe, and rewarding. The Seahawks youth swim team offers flexible practice options and year-round CARA swim meets. Adult swimmers can join Ranch H2O or a Masters workout group — no USMS membership is required.
Classes fill quickly — scan the QR code below and register today!
Scuba and Snorkel
Get ready for your tropical vacation with Intro to Scuba and Snorkel classes.
Ever wondered what it feels like to breathe underwater or glide effortlessly above a coral reef? Our Scuba and Snorkeling classes are the perfect way to get a taste of the experience without committing to a full certification course. Led by friendly, certified instructors, these sessions are designed for beginners who want to try it out, learn the basics, and have a blast.
Register for one of the two remaining 2025 Sunday classes, November 16 and December 7.
Art Camps and Workshops
Join us for one of our amazing art camps or workshops! We specialize in a wide variety of mediums and subjects!
• Macrame Workshop
• Encaustics Wash Painting
• Holiday Gift Workshop
• Candle Making
Arts, STEM & Specialty Parties
From birthdays and Scout gatherings to group and adult celebrations, we offer a variety of themed parties designed to delight guests of all ages. Choose your theme, and we’ll create a fun, mess-friendly experience that everyone will enjoy. We take care of all the details so you can relax and celebrate stress-free!
Why You Might Need a Revocable Living Trust
Learn what a revocable living trust is and how it can help you plan for the future. This seminar breaks down the pros and cons in simple terms and covers topics like managing property, preparing for changes in health, handling life insurance, and protecting family assets. Find out if this estate planning option is a good fit for your needs.
Back the Backcountry
It’s time to Back the Backcountry! From November 1–13, our community will come together to support the Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund—fueling environmental education, wildlife habitat conservation, and opportunities for everyone to connect with the outdoors close to home.
Here’s how you can join in our end-of-year fundraiser:
Silent Auction (Nov. 1–13) – Bid and win priceless opportunities such as a Sanctuary Golf Foursome, Bison Experience in Daniel’s Park, Ed Sheeran tickets, and more.
Golden Eagle Meet & Greet (Nov. 1) – Meet a live raptor ambassador and kick off the fundraiser.
Colorado Natives Live Animal Meet & Greet (Nov. 8) – Get up close with native wildlife while supporting their wild counterparts.
Back the Backcountry Party at Living the Dream Brewing Co. (Nov. 13) – Celebrate community and conservation at our campaign finale!
Every bid, every ticket, and every donation makes a difference—help us inspire the next generation of nature stewards and conserve our local wild place.
Programs to Try This Month
Junior Wildlife Biologists Club (Nov. 8)
Discover the secrets of wildlife like a true scientist! In our kids’ club, you’ll investigate animal tracks and scat, analyze fascinating biofacts, and identify local species. Dive into hands-on fieldwork and research, exploring the amazing adaptations and behaviors of the creatures in our natural world!
S’mores & Storytime (Nov. 8, 15 and 22)
Join us for a magical family evening! Start with a scenic hike through the woods to a fairy-lit campfire. Enjoy s’mores, relax on picnic blankets, and listen as our staff reads a fun, familyfriendly story under the twinkling lights. Perfect for kids 10 and under, it’s a storybook night come to life!
Opportunities abound for Nature Campers to hike to nature hideaways, practice outdoor skills, observe wildlife (or signs of wildlife) in their natural habitat, and trade screen time for muchneeded green time. Horse Campers will spend Thanksgiving Break at the Horse Corrals! Kids will gain confidence in the saddle as they learn both Western and English riding!
Veterans Concert
Join us for a heartfelt Veterans Concert at the Highlands Ranch Mansion honoring those who served. Enjoy patriotic music, moving tributes, and community spirit as we celebrate our heroes with gratitude and song. A powerful evening of remembrance, pride, and unity.
Date: Thursday, November 6
Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Location: Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E Gateway Dr.
Details: $30 per person
Classical Concert at the Mansion
Join us for a Classical Concert at the Highlands Ranch Mansion featuring stunning performances by members of the Colorado Symphony. Explore the historic rooms and beautiful grounds on a self-guided tour. November’s concert features The Octet: string quintet plus bassoon, horn, and clarinet.
Date: Tuesday, November 18
Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Location: Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E Gateway Dr.
Details: $30 per person
Holiday Gift Fair
Kick off the season at our Holiday Gift Fair! Enjoy festive music, twinkling lights, and unique handmade gifts from local vendors. Sip cocoa, browse booths, and feel the magic of the holidays surround you. A merry shopping experience for all!
Date: Saturday, November 15
Time: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Eastridge, 9568 University Blvd. Details: Free to attend
Nutcracker Highlights Holiday Chamber Music
Experience the magic of the season with Nutcracker Highlights by the International Youth Ballet! This one-hour show is perfect for young audiences, offering all the beauty of the classic ballet. Plus, kids get a special nutcracker gift to take home. A holiday event the whole family will love!
Join us for Game Show Night at HRCA, where host Rion Evans will guide the audience through exciting rounds of your favorite TV game shows like Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, and Press Your Luck. This event is perfect for the whole family, with questions geared toward ages 13+ but still fun and appropriate for younger players too—so don’t miss out on the fun!
Celebrate the season with the Chamber Music Society of Greater Denver as they present an enchanting holiday concert filled with warmth, elegance, and festive charm at Southridge Rec Center. Featuring the delicate interplay of piano, flute, harp, and voice, this chamber ensemble offers a fresh take on timeless holiday classics and wintry favorites. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music!
Work one-on-one with our certified trainers who will help you stay on track and crush your goals. We’ll pair you with the trainer that best fits your needs and schedule, ensuring a personalized approach every step of the way. Plus, we’re offering exclusive discounts for adults 55+!
Take advantage of our new InBody machine to accurately track your progress—every personal training package includes FREE InBody testing.
Ready to get started? Request a trainer today and start your journey to a stronger, healthier you!
Breathe and Bubbles
Take a break before the holiday chaos and treat yourself to a night of relaxation and good vibes! We’ll start with guided breathing, gentle yoga, and a soothing lavender towel to help relieve stress. Then, stick around for champagne, snacks, and great company (non-alcoholic options available too!).
Date: Wednesday, December 10
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Location: Southridge (Auditorium)
4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.
Details: $20 members / $25 guest
Deepen Your Yin Practice
Join Stef Layton, RYT-500 with 175 hours of Yin training, for a 4-session series. This workshop blends education with practice.
We’ll explore:
• What is Yin and why it matters
• Active vs. passive poses
• Nervous system support & relaxation
• Meridians, acupressure points & TCM
• Breathwork techniques
• Using blocks and bolsters for your unique body
Date: Saturdays, November 1, 8, 15 and 22
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Northridge (Yoga Studio), 8800 Broadway
Details: $120 members / $140 guest
Black Friday Group Fitness Sale is Back!
Take advantage of our biggest savings of the year and get ready to move with us!
With over 100 classes every week, there’s something for everyone—Aqua, Yoga, Cycle, Strength, Dance, HIIT, and more.
Punch passes expire six months from purchase date. No extensions or freezes—so buy now and start using them right away!
Don’t miss your chance to save big, commit to your health, and enjoy unlimited variety in your workouts.
Date: Friday, November 28 – Friday, December 19
Details: Buy a 10-Punch Pass, get one class FREE
Buy a 20-Punch Pass, get two classes FREE Buy an Annual Pass, get up to one month FREE
(Annual passes purchased during this sale will expire December 31, 2026)
Colorado Basketball Academy Camps and Clinics
HRCA provides year-round, high-quality basketball development programs in partnership with Colorado Basketball Academy for kids ages 5-17 and are appropriate for your child’s level of play. The six-week sessions and week-long camps continually work on individual and specialized player development skills such as ball handling, agility, coordination, shooting, and in-game skills.
Date: Year-round
Location: Eastridge (Gym), 9568 University Blvd.
Details: Prices vary
Soccer Shots
Soccer Shots is an engaging children’s soccer program for kids ages 2-8 with a focus on character development. Our expert-approved curriculum is age-appropriate and aligns with childhood education standards. Additionally, we provide exceptional customer experience and ongoing communication with parents.
Pickleball has quickly become one of the most popular sports in the country—and for good reason. Blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, it offers an exciting, social, and approachable way to stay active and connected. Whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time or refining your skills, pickleball delivers fun, fitness, and friendship in every game. Pickleball registration for the last session of classes, lessons, and indoor leagues of the year is currently available. The last session will begin on Tuesday, November 10. Signup now.
Tennis
The HRCA Northridge Tennis Pavilion provides designated youth tennis lessons including Hot Shots, Future Stars, middle school, high school and Academy classes. Adult tennis lessons and drill sessions are available for both new and experienced players. Our in-house leagues will begin Tuesday, November 10. Scan the QR code below or call the Northridge Tennis/ Pickleball Monitor desk at 303-471-8996 to register.
Therapeutic Recreation
Individual Fitness Instruction
Work one-on-one with one of our qualified Therapeutic Recreation staff and fine-tune a workout just for you. Meet once a week in one of our well-equipped fitness studios or work the machines on the fitness floor. Improve stamina and cardiovascular fitness, work on strength, balance, and flexibility, and most importantly, have fun! Purchase a punch card for one, five or 10 sessions.
Try a trifecta of sports! Challenge yourself by engaging in six different sports over two days. The possibilities are endless, at this gym-based all-ability camp. Brush up your skills and learn new drills with lots of friendly competition. Possibilities include, basketball, soccer, pickleball, T-ball, volleyball, broomball, and more!
Date: Wednesday, December 31 and Friday, January 2
The fun happens twice a week in our sensoryfriendly, all-abilities taekwondo class. Improve balance, concentration, self control, confidence, as well as general fitness. In-class belt testing allows students to progress at their own pace in a low-pressure environment. Taekwondo classes are offered in partnership with J.W. Kim Taekwondo.
Date: Tuesdays and Thursdays, November 4 - November 24
Time: 3:50 - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Northridge (Martial Arts Studio) 8800 Broadway
Details: $110 members / $127 guests
Community Partners
Become a Community Partner
HRCA continuously strives to enhance property values and quality of life through recreation, community events and leadership. In line with our commitment to fostering stronger connections within our community, we would be delighted to partner with you in making your business successful.
If you are interested in learning more, please scan the QR code at the bottom of the page.
Events
Saturday, November 1: Back the Backcountry Fitness Expo
Sundays through November 2: Highlands Ranch Farmers’ Market
Thursday, November 6: Veterans Concert
Saturday, November 8: Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon
Monday, November 10: Holiday Pottery Sale
Saturday, November 15: Holiday Gift Fair
Tuesday, November 18: Classic Concert at the Mansion - November Delegate & Board Meeting
Friday, November 21: Nutcracker Highlights
Saturday, November 22: Nutcracker Highlights
Tuesday, November 25: Game Show Night
Thursday, November 27: Holiday House Decorating
Facility Closures
Tuesday, November 11: The Administrative offices will be closed for the Veterans Day holiday.
Friday, November 14 and Saturday, November 15: Eastridge Basketball courts are closed for the Holiday Gift Fair
Thursday, November 27: All Recreation Centers and Administrative offices will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday
9568 University Blvd. Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
HRCAonline.org
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Check the website for the most up-to-date closure information and event details. Visit HRCAonline.org.
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