Film Premiere - The Wilderness by Andy Sameshima and Cade Birdfeld

On May 3rd, 2026, IPWA hosted the premiere of The Wilderness, a documentary produced by Colorado College students Andy Sameshima and Cade Birgfeld. The IPWA film festival was held at the Kress Cinema & Lounge in Greeley, CO.

The documentary follows IPWA volunteers as they carry out their duties to preserve and protect the Indian Peaks and James Peak Wilderness. Andy and Cade masterfully captured the profound meaning, community, and sense of place that come with volunteering in service of our public lands. We are in awe of their cinematic skill and honored to have been part of the production.

Watch the film here:

IPWA Film Festival highlights:

• The Wilderness makes its cinematic debut

• Volunteers arrive in the theater

• Prize drawing winners taking home art created by volunteers, backpacks donated by Fjallraven, and tie-dye tshirts

• Snacks and specialty cocktails

• Also shared the Colorado 14ers Project Film

• Live music provided by a volunteer and her band, The Klez Dispensers

• Q&A with director Andy

• Members of the film committee and Andy ready to ride off into the sunset after an incredible event!

Huge thanks to The Kress Cinema & Lounge for providing the perfect place to celebrate!

Event Photos