Explore and Lead within the Wilds of the Rockies

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the rugged wilderness of the western United States. This immersive outdoor program offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience in backcountry skiing, rock climbing, whitewater paddling, canyoneering, and backpacking.Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced adventurer, this course will challenge you to push your limits while acquiring essential outdoor skills, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, canyons, and rivers.

Throughout this expedition, you’ll not only sharpen your technical skills but also grow as a leader. The program includes Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification, a credential that enhances your qualifications and prepares you for any challenge in the field. By the end of the semester, you’ll have transformed into a confident and capable leader, ready to tackle real-world challenges with confidence.

Photo credit: Carly Gutermuth

Why the Semester in the Rockies Will Transform Your Leadership and Outdoor Skills

The Semester in the Rockies isn’t just a wilderness adventure—it’s a life-changing journey that will reshape your perspective on leadership, teamwork, and personal resilience. As you explore vast canyons, navigate wild rivers, and scale towering peaks, you’ll engage in dynamic, hands-on learning that prepares you for a wide range of outdoor activities. More importantly, you’ll develop the kind of leadership skills that will serve you in every aspect of life—whether in school, your career, or personal relationships.

Key Transformative Experiences Include:

• Learning to lead in high-pressure situations, such as river rescues or navigating steep, technical terrain.
• Gaining a deeper understanding of yourself and your leadership style through real-world outdoor challenges.
• Building lifelong friendships with fellow participants, united by a shared passion for adventure and growth.

Explore the Rocky Mountains, Canyons, and Rivers: A Diverse Wilderness Experience

This course takes you through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the western United States. From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the remote canyons and flowing rivers, you’ll experience the full range of environments that the wilderness has to offer. Each day will present new adventures and opportunities to refine your skills.

• Backcountry Skiing: In winter months, take to the snowy peaks of the Rockies, honing skills in avalanche safety, skiing, and winter camping.
• Rock Climbing: Scale the rugged cliffs of Colorado or Utah, where you’ll learn everything from basic techniques to advanced climbing maneuvers.
• Whitewater Paddling: Paddle through rapids and assess river hazards, developing the skills to lead in challenging river environments.
• Canyoneering: Explore hidden desert canyons and master the technical aspects of this unique discipline.

The program is designed to offer an exciting variety of activities, ensuring that every day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth.

Photo credit: Eric Page

Challenges and Rewards: Overcoming the Toughest Obstacles

The course will challenge you physically, mentally, and emotionally. From navigating steep, rugged terrain to paddling wild, unpredictable rivers, you’ll need to draw on your resilience, adaptability, and leadership to succeed. Here’s a glimpse at some of the challenges you’ll face:

• Physical and Mental Endurance: You’ll be carrying heavy packs, scaling technical rock faces, and paddling through intense rapids—each requiring stamina, focus, and a willingness to push beyond your comfort zone.
• Leadership in Action: The ability to make decisions for yourself and your group in challenging environments will be tested daily. Whether you’re leading a team through difficult terrain or managing a river rescue, you’ll gain valuable experience in high-stakes decision-making.
• Group Dynamics and Teamwork: As a member of a small, tight-knit group, you’ll need to work closely with others, balancing leadership with cooperation, patience, and empathy.

By the end of the course, you’ll have developed not just outdoor skills, but the mental and emotional resilience needed to lead and thrive in any environment.