Course Length
15 days

Activities
Hiking, mountaineering, canoeing

Ages
12 - 15

Locations
Colorado, Wyoming, Montana

Dates
July  12 - 26

Tuition:  $1800

We start our journey on foot, hiking the rugged trails of the undiscovered Gore Range of western Colorado. We finish it seated, guiding our canoes down 60 miles of some of Montana's most historic rivers. In between we experience some of the grandest sights the West can offer.

This course spends seven days in the days in the Gore Range where we'll hike, camp and snow climb. By day we walk through meadows of wildflowers, cross two high passes and ascend 13,000-foot Razor Peak. We learn map and compass skills, rope up and climb with ice axes, and develop teamwork. By night we camp in silent pine groves along trout-rich lakes and streams.

Next comes a day and a half of travel through Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming and up into Yellowstone National Park. We'll learn about the park's recovery from fire damage, soak in a hot spring and visit Old Faithful - all the while keeping our eyes peeled for moose, bison, and other wildlife.

After a half-day of instruction we'll put in our two-person canoes and head east on the river for a five-day float. En route we'll swim in the warm water, make camp on the riverbanks and settle down each night in front of a blazing driftwood campfire.

Participants carry up to 30-pound packs in the Gore Range and hike two to five miles per day. Canoeing on the river is moderate - it's Class 1 with some rapids. The fishing is excellent - if you're so inclined, bring your own rod.

Departures and Returns
All courses originate and end from KMAC's headquarters on Deer Ridge in Estes Park. We provide pickup and drop-off at Denver International Airport for students arriving by plane.

Participants traveling by car should arrive in Estes Park at 11 a.m. on the course starting date. Lunch will be provided at KMAC. Pick-up time is 11:00 a.m. on the course return date. Lunch will not be provided on this day.

Participants flying in should schedule their arrival at Denver International Airport between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. on the course starting date. A KMAC employee will meet your child at the airport. Departing flights should depart DIA between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. on the course return date. Please contact KMAC before making flight reservations.

Return to 2008 Schedule