Rocky Mountain Explorer

2 weeks

open to grades 7-9

Overview

In the spectacular Rockies we’ll hike to over 14,000 feet, raft a great western river and see the best of Colorado. For two weeks, we’ll discover the beauty and excitement of America’s West in an adventurous and spirited Overland group.

At the start of our trip, we’ll set out on a series of introductory hikes. These hikes are a terrific way to acclimate to the high elevation and arid climate. At the end of our first week together, we’ll be ready to head into the backcountry on a three-day backpacking trip below snowy mountains and along crystal-clear alpine lakes.

During our second week, we’ll take a break from the trail to enjoy a two-day rafting trip on the Arkansas River. With professional guides at the helm, we’ll float the long, calm stretches and enjoy the fun of the Class III rapids—a perfect river for our group. Back on the trail, Rocky Mountain Explorer ends with a hike up Mount Yale, one of Colorado’s famous “14ers” (mountain peaks over 14,000 feet). Our hard work during the ascent will be rewarded with magnificent views from the summit and a huge sense of accomplishment. At trip’s end, we’ll look back on two weeks of hiking, rafting, fun and summer adventure in the spectacular Rocky Mountains.

"Geoffrey was all smiles when I picked him up at the airport; he really enjoyed being treated like an adult and being part of the group decision process." Julie Graham, Toledo, Ohio

Highlights

Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park
Backpack the Rocky Mountain high country
Summit Mount Yale (14,192 feet)
Raft the Arkansas River

Grade

For students who will finish grades 7-9 in June 2010.

Call us (800.458.0588) to check on current availability.

Challenge Level

4 (1-10, 1 is easiest)

Start and End Location

Starts and ends in Denver, Colorado.

Dates and Fees

Sunday, June 27 to Friday, July 9
Sunday, July 11 to Friday, July 23
Sunday, July 25 to Friday, August 6

$3095 (airfare not included)

“When Chuck came home, he was the most empowered person I'd ever seen!” Melissa Caikoski, Califon, New Jersey

Itinerary

Trip Start

Once everyone has arrived in Denver, we’ll head to our campground and spend time checking over our gear and getting to know one another before heading out to explore the best of the Rockies.

Day Hikes & Backcountry Hiking

We'll spend the first 4-5 days on day-hikes, averaging around 5-7 miles, which will allow us to acclimate to the elevation and prepare ourselves for the more challenging hiking to come. We’ll then head out on a three-day backcountry trip, hiking below snowy mountains and along alpine lakes and camping in the beautiful and remote Colorado backcountry. Averaging 5 miles per day on the trail, we’ll carry all of our gear, learn about Leave No Trace principles and work together to enhance our backpacking skills. We'll spend two nights camping near one of Colorado's beautiful high mountain lakes. Our second day in the backcountry will be spent exploring the area and relaxing in our beautiful and peaceful setting.

White Water Rafting

We’ll take a break from our hiking summer adventures to raft the Arkansas River with Wilderness Aware (www.inaraft.com). Wilderness Aware has been guiding rafting trips for many years and rafting is often a highlight for Overland groups. Our experienced guides will take us down the river as we paddle in rafts and inflatable kayaks through calm flat water and exciting Class II and III rapids. We’ll spend the night on the river, waking up to breakfast prepared by our guides as we get ready for our second day of paddling.

Climbing a 14er

As a culmination of our two weeks of summer adventure in the Rockies, we’ll attempt to summit one of Colorado’s 14,000 foot peaks - Mount Yale. Colorado is famous for its 14ers and after our two weeks of hiking and rafting at high elevations, we'll be prepared to tackle one of these magnificent peaks. Rising early, we’ll hope to summit by late morning and return to camp in early afternoon—a triumphant and fitting end to our adventures in the Rockies.

Trip End

At trip's end, we'll head back to Denver for a final dinner as we reminisce about our two weeks together and celebrate all we have accomplished on Rocky Mountain Explorer, a life experience with value and resonance that extends far beyond the boundaries of a single summer.

“It was one of the coolest things I have ever done." Ben Young, Corning, New York

Trip Details

A recent Rocky Mountain Explorer leader had the following to say about this trip:

“Get the most out of your trip because it will be over before you know it! Colorado is a beautiful state and Rocky Mountain Explorer hits the best of the Rockies! Our hikes were challenging yet fun; the three-day back country was perfect for beginner backpackers and a great way to get in shape for our trip-ending climb of one of Colorado’s 14ers. Remembering our group together at the top of Mount Yale in the early morning sunrise is something I won’t soon forget. Teamwork and enthusiasm, even in the early hours of our hike, are what made our climb successful. Our final night in Denver was spent telling stories and laughing about our summer adventures together – hard to believe we had only known each other for two weeks!”

“This was my third summer with Overland, and every single program I have done has been fabulous. The leaders are outstanding, and the programs are perfectly organized. Once again, Overland has exceeded my expectations!” Linda Kate Gilbreath, Arlington, Virginia

Photos

Click thumbnails below to enlarge

Print View

Enrollment Forms

Admissions Material 2010

Rocky Mountain Explorer Release Forms 2010

Prepare & Pack

Packing List 2010 as a PDF

Packing List for: High Sierra Explorer | Northwest Explorer | Rocky Mountain Explorer | Yellowstone Teton Explorer

Our packing list is designed to keep you safe and comfortable while hiking and camping this summer. The warm clothing and layers listed may seem unnecessary now, but we guarantee that you'll appreciate them this summer, especially at night or when you’re at high elevations. Keep in mind that there are a wide range of products available in terms of clothing and equipment. Overland programs are relatively short, and although you want your clothing and equipment to be durable, this does not mean it has to be top of the line. Oftentimes more basic and less expensive options perform just as well.

The most important part of preparing and packing for a hiking trip is breaking in your boots. We cannot emphasize enough how essential this is for a successful trip. Starting a month before your trip begins, wear your boots at home and go on several long walks or hikes in them. You should go on at least one 5-mile hike in your boots with a backpack with some weight in it. Students have had to leave trips early because of blisters so please, please, please break in your boots. You’ll be glad you did and it will make your trip much more enjoyable!

Label the following items with your name, address and phone number.
Bring only what you need and pack everything in your backpack or daypack.
If you are flying to your trip start, you should wear your hiking boots on the plane and carry your sleeping bag and sleeping pad on the plane with you in case your checked luggage fails to arrive on time. Please do not wear an extra set of clothes for the flight.
You will have the chance to do laundry periodically and you will be able to leave some extra items in our van while we are on the trail, so please stick to the packing list and bring only the clothes and items listed below.
Overland will rent or provide any specialized gear for any of our non-hiking activities (for example, rock climbing, rafting, mountaineering, or kayaking) and that gear is included in your trip fee.
Please do not bring any type of knife or multi-tool like a Swiss Army knife or Leatherman tool.
If you have any questions, please contact our office at 800.458.0588.

Clothing

Fleece Jacket and Fleece Pants
The fleece should be medium to heavyweight and reasonably compact. Please don't bring jeans or sweatpants.

Synthetic Long Underwear Long-Sleeve Shirt and Pants
One or two tops and one bottom.

Winter Hat and Gloves/Mittens
*High Sierra Explorer students should bring a second pair of warm waterproof gloves for their Shasta climb.

Waterproof Rain Jacket and Rain Pants
Your rain gear must be waterproof (not just water resistant). Gore-Tex is one of the better-known waterproof, breathable fabric brands, but there are many to choose from. Ponchos are not acceptable.

Insulated Vest
One insulated fleece or down vest. Make sure it’s compactable.

Shorts
Two pairs of synthetic shorts. Athletic shorts or hiking shorts work well.

T-Shirts
Three synthetic t-shirts are recommended but cotton shirts are acceptable.

Underwear
Five.

Socks
Three pairs of thick wool or synthetic blend socks made for hiking. Sock liners are optional.

Sport Sandals
These must have a heel strap for kayaking, swimming and around camp. Flip-flops or Crocs are not acceptable for water activities such as rafting or kayaking. If you do not have sport sandals, your sneakers will work fine.

Sneakers or Tennis Shoes
A comfortable and lightweight alternative to your hiking boots. To be used on short day hikes and when in camp.

Bathing Suit
Optional.

Pajamas
Optional.

Hiking & Camping Equipment

Hiking Boots
Waterproof backpacking boots (recommended price range $125 to $175). Choose a comfortable boot that is designed for hiking with a medium weight pack. Your boots should have a durable leather upper that can be treated with waterproofing wax or liquid, or have a waterproof fabric and leather combination.

Backpack
The backpack should be 4000-5000 cubic inches. Before you purchase a backpack, find your backpack size by measuring your torso length and your hips. We recommend getting fitted at a store where you can try on a number of different packs.
*Rocky Mountain Explorer students only need a pack that is 1800-3000 cubic inches.

Sleeping Bag and Stuff Sack
We recommend a lightweight, compact sleeping bag (synthetic or down) that is rated to 25 Fahrenheit or less. Your sleeping bag should compress into a stuff sack which can then be cinched down to 12-20” in length.

Sleeping Pad
A full or ¾ length mattress pad that is inflatable or made of closed-cell foam. It should be compact enough to either fit in your pack or be strapped to the outside.

Day Pack
Your day pack can be used as a carry-on and will be used for day hikes. This can be a very basic backpack but it should have two shoulder straps (not a satchel or messenger bag) and should big enough to hold your lunch, two water bottles, some food, and some extra clothes.

Water Bottle
One 1-liter Nalgene (or similar) water bottle. Overland will provide you with a second water bottle on arrival. A Camelbak or similar water bladder is acceptable.
*High Sierra Explorer students should know that water bladders are not recommend for the Shasta climb.

Headlamp & Extra Batteries
A small flashlight is OK but headlamps are great because your hands are freed up for other tasks.
*Rocky Mountain Explorer and High Sierra Explorer students must have headlamps for their summit climbs.

Waterproof Pack Cover
If your backpack does not come with a cover, choose one that fits your pack well.

Bowl, Mug & Utensils
For meals you will need a 6-8” plastic dish or bowl with a lid. The bowl can be a rigid Tupperware-like material or collapsible. A spoon is all you need but you can bring a spork or a set of lightweight silverware if you’d like. We also recommend a plastic insulated mug to be used for hot drinks.

Mosquito Head Net
*High Sierra Explorer and Yellowstone Teton Explorer students are strongly advised to bring mosquito head nets. They are extremely useful in the backcountry when the bugs are bad at night or in low marshy areas.

Small Safety Whistle
Needed for safety reasons in case a student is separated from the group.

Sunscreen (SPF 15+) & Chapstick (with SPF protection)
Please bring lots and lots of sunscreen; it’s especially useful when on the water and at high elevations.

Insect Repellent
Please bring ample amounts of bug spray or cream.

Moleskin
For blister prevention and care.

Gaiters
Optional.

Miscellaneous

Toiletries
All items should be travel size. If necessary, you will be able to restock en route.

Plastic Bags
Ten large 1-gallon ziplock bags and two large trash bags. The ziplock bags are used to organize and waterproof your gear and small items. The trash bags are used to line your pack and to wrap your sleeping bag and pad.

Sunglasses & Hat with Visor
*High Sierra Explorer students should have sunglasses that wrap around to protect from the sun reflecting off of the snow on the Shasta climb and descent.

Digital Camera & Extra Batteries
Great for documenting the trip. Make sure you bring a large enough memory card (1 to 4 GB).

Towel
Medium size cotton towel or synthetic camping towel.

Spending Money
$25/week in cash or with a debit or ATM card.

Personal Journal or Book
Optional.

Travel Information

Families are responsible for making travel arrangements to and from Denver, Colorado. Overland’s leaders will be on hand at the airport to provide supervision and assistance at trip start and end.

Flight Arrival: Denver International Airport (DEN) between 10am and 12pm Sunday, 6/27, 7/11, and 7/25.
Flight Departure: Denver International Airport (DEN) between 8am and 12pm Friday, 7/9, 7/23, and 8/6.

Drop Off: Terminal West Baggage Claim at 12pm.
Pick Up: United Check-In at 10am.

Any other special cases: please call the Overland office to coordinate, if you have not done so already.

Flight & Travel Information 2010

Program Start & End Information 2010

Mail Stops

During the trip, students may receive mail sent to the below addresses.

Mail Notes:

1) On the lower left corner of the envelope, please write: "Please hold for Overland."
2) Mail sent to General Delivery addresses can only be sent via the USPS.

Rocky Mountain Explorer 1A

Mail Stop - must arrive before July 2nd

Student's Name, Overland/RMX 1A
c/o Wilderness Aware
P.O. Box 1550
Buena Vista, CO 81211

Rocky Mountain Explorer 1B

Mail Stop - must arrive before July 2nd

Student's Name, Overland/RMX 1B
c/o Wilderness Aware
P.O. Box 1550
Buena Vista, CO 81211

Rocky Mountain Explorer 2A

Mail Stop - must arrive before July 16th

Student's Name, Overland/RMX 2A
c/o Wilderness Aware
P.O. Box 1550
Buena Vista, CO 81211

Rocky Mountain Explorer 2B

Mail Stop - must arrive before July 16th

Student's Name, Overland/RMX 2B
c/o Wilderness Aware
P.O. Box 1550
Buena Vista, CO 81211

Rocky Mountain Explorer 3A

Mail Stop - must arrive before July 30th

Student's Name, Overland/RMX 3A
c/o Wilderness Aware
P.O. Box 1550
Buena Vista, CO 81211

Rocky Mountain Explorer 3B

Mail Stop - must arrive before July 30th

Student's Name, Overland/RMX 3B
c/o Wilderness Aware
P.O. Box 1550
Buena Vista, CO 81211

Helpful Reminders

Checklist and Reminders 2010

Apply Now

We welcome your interest in joining Overland this summer!

To apply, please complete and sign the application on page 47 of the Overland catalog or download an application. (You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to download the application).

Please refer to page 46 of our catalog for important information you should know before signing the application.

Send your application and $795 deposit to:

Overland
P.O. Box 31
Williamstown, MA 01267

For overnight mail via UPS or FedEx, please use our street address:

Overland
63 Spring Street
Williamstown, MA 01267

Sorry, we are unable to accept applications by fax, and we do not take credit cards. Applications are reviewed in the order in which they arrive at our office and we cannot hold spots over the phone.

To learn about our admissions process, please click here.

Em Allison

Hometown: Bozeman, Montana
School: Middlebury College
More about Em »

See More Overland Leaders