Rocky Mountain Explorer

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 and fun 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

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.

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. While backpacking, Overland Travel operates under permit by the White River National Forest and is an equal opportunity service provider.

White Water Rafting

We’ll take a break from our hiking 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 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 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

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Prepare & Pack

Preparing for your Hiking Trip

Rocky Mountain Explorer is rated 4 on a scale of 1-10 (1 is the easiest). This rating places Rocky Mountain Explorer in a moderate category. Day hikes often average 7 miles a day while the groups tackle 4-5 miles daily in the backcountry.

Your trip will be significantly more enjoyable if you have a basic level of fitness and well-broken-in boots. We cannot overemphasize the importance of well-broken-in boots. There have been students who have had to leave their trips because of blisters from boots that were not broken in. The training guidelines below are designed to help you properly break in your boots and develop a solid fitness base.

Four weeks before your trip: Wear your boots for 15-30 minutes a day to walk around your house or neighborhood so your boots will begin to conform to your feet.

Three weeks before your trip: Take three 30-minute hikes or walks in your boots.

Two weeks before your trip: Take three 45-minute hikes or walks in your boots.

One week before your trip: Take three 1-hour hikes or walks in your boots.

Many Rocky Mountain Explorer participants are first-timers on a trip like this—so few, if any, students come with prior experience. There is always a range of physical ability and fitness in each group. As long as you are motivated and reasonably fit, you will keep up just fine because the trip is designed to be a cooperative, non-competitive group activity where everyone contributes and helps one another.

Your enjoyment of this trip will hinge on several factors:

1. Your fitness. Any reasonably fit, reasonably active teen will do just fine.
2. Your motivation. It’s not always easy—you must be motivated!
3. Your commitment to teamwork. Overland trips require compromise, patience and selflessness. Support your trip leaders and your trip mates, and you’ll find that you will have a great experience.

Packing for Your Trip

Our packing list is designed to keep you safe and comfortable while hiking and camping this summer. Nighttime temperatures are much cooler when you are at high elevation than they tend to be in the regions most of us are from. The warm clothing and layers listed may seem unnecessary now, but we guarantee you'll appreciate them this summer! Keep in mind, however, 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. Some of our favorite brands in terms of quality of product for a reasonable price include REI, EMS and L.L.Bean.

Label the following items with your name, address and phone number.  Bring only what you need and pack everything in your backpack or daypack. 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 bring only the clothes listed below. Do not wear an extra set of clothes for the flight. By layering you will stay cool on warm days, dry on rainy days and warm on cool nights. You will have the chance to do laundry periodically. You will be able to leave some extra items in our van while we are on the trail, but please stick to the packing list. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact our office.

Specialized Gear

Overland will rent specialized gear for any of our non-hiking activities. (e.g. rafting) and this is included in your trip fee.

Clothing

• Fleece Jacket or Pullover & Long Fleece Pants
  The fleece should be medium to heavy weight and reasonably compact. Please don't bring jeans or sweatpants. They are heavy, bulky and will not keep you warm if wet.


• Synthetic Long Underwear Top or Synthetic Long-Sleeve Shirt
  One only. Synthetic material will keep you warm in varying weather and is a comfortable layer to wear while hiking or in camp.


• Winter Hat and Gloves/Mittens
  For cool nights in camp.


• Waterproof, Breathable Rain Jacket
  Your rain gear must be waterproof (not just water and/or wind resistant). GoreTex is one of the better-known waterproof, breathable fabrics, but there are many of these fabrics to choose from. Ponchos are not acceptable as they are difficult to hike in and don't provide the same protection that a rain jacket does.


• Shorts To Hike In
  Two pairs of synthetic (no cotton) shorts. Athletic shorts or hiking shorts work well.


• T-Shirts
  Three. Synthetic are recommended; cotton are acceptable. At least one synthetic shirt is recommended because it will dry faster than cotton. One cotton shirt works well for at night in camp.


• Underwear
  Five.


• Socks
  Three pairs of thick wool/synthetic blend socks made for hiking. Synthetic socks dry faster after a day on the trail and help protect your feet better than a cotton sock.


• Pajamas
  One pair only. Pajamas aren't required as many students sleep in shorts and a t-shirt.


• Bathing Suit
  One only.


• Sport Sandals
  With a heel strap for rafting, swimming and around camp. No flip-flops or Crocs as these will not be acceptable for rafting. If you do not have sport sandals, your sneakers will work fine for rafting and around camp.


• Sneakers or Tennis Shoes
  A comfortable and lightweight alternative to your hiking boots. To be used on short day hikes and in camp when your hiking boots are not necessary.

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/leather combination. If the boots you like have a GoreTex liner, that is great but your boots do not need to have GoreTex liners to be waterproof; good quality leather when treated properly is waterproof. Follow the waterproofing instructions from the boots' manufacturer prior to the start of your trip; typically you must wear the boots for at least a week before they will accept waterproofing treatment.


• Backpack
  When choosing a backpack, look for a weekend/overnight pack, which has somewhere between 1,800-3,000 cubic inches of space.  Junior packs are also available in this size range.  Most packs of this type range in price from $70-$150. 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.  Please keep in mind that a larger backpack (4,000-5,000 cubic inches of space) is required if you plan to do a hiking trip with a longer backcountry experience (Yellowstone Teton Explorer, Alaska Explorer, Alaska Leadership Course, High Sierra Explorer, European Explorer or Alpine Challenge) in the future and are buying a new backpack now. Follow REI's guidelines on how to find your backpack size:

Measure Your Torso Length.  This is key:  Your torso length, not your height, determines your pack size.  Here's how to measure it: 1.With the help of a friend, locate the bony bump at the base of your neck.  This is where the slope of your shoulder meets your neck, also known as the seventh vertebra.  Tilt your head forward to locate it more easily. 2. Using a flexible tape measure, have your friend start measuring at that spot down your spine, following the curves of your back. 3. Place your hands on your hips to feel your iliac crest, the twin pointy protrusions on the front of your hips.  Position your hands so your thumbs are reaching behind you. 4. Finish measuring at the point where the tape crosses an imaginary line between your thumbs.  This distance is your torso length.  
Measure Your Hips. While less critical than torso length, this is helpful if you're considering a pack that offers mulitiple sizes of interchangeable hipbelts.  To measure, take your tape measure and wrap it around the tops of your hips.  This is the "latitude line" where you can feel your iliac crest, the two pointy bones on the front of your hips.  A properly positioned hipbelt will straddle your iliac crest at this line.

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

• Day Pack
  Your day pack can be used as a carry-on and will be necessary for day hikes. This can be a very basic backpack, maybe even just your school backpack. You should be able to carry it over both shoulders (i.e., NOT a satchel) and it should be big enough to hold your lunch, 2 water bottles, snacks and some extra warm clothes.


• Sleeping Bag
  We recommend a lightweight, compact sleeping bag either synthetic or down that is warm to 30 degrees or less. Your sleeping bag should compress enough to fit into your backpack. Some sleeping bags come with a stuff sack which is a small bag that you can stuff your sleeping bag into and then cinch down to make it compact. If your bag does not have one, you can purchase one at most outdoors stores. A stuff sack that compresses your bag to 12" to 20" is recommended. Carry your sleeping bag on the plane with you.


• Sleeping Pad
  Either a full length or 3/4 length pad that is inflatable like a ThermaRest or a closed cell foam (thin and firm) like a Therma Ridge Rest is appropriate. It should be compact enough to either fit in your pack or be strapped to the outside. Carry your sleeping pad on the plane with you.


• 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.


• Headlamp
So you can see in camp when it's dark outside.  A headlamp is a small light attatched to a band that you can wear on your head which is nice because it allows both hands to be free.

• Small Safety Whistle
  Plastic or metal with a string or lanyard attached. This is for safety reasons in case a student is separated from the group.

• Utensils
  For meals you will need a 6" to 8" plastic Tupperware/Rubbermaid dish or bowl with a top, a spoon and a fork. We also recommend a plastic insulated mug to be used for hot drinks.

Miscellaneous Gear

• Towel
  Medium size cotton towel or synthetic camping towel.


• Plastic Bags
  Ten large ziplocks (1-2 gallon) and 4 large trash bags. The trash bags will be used to line your pack and to wrap your sleeping bag and pad in. The ziplocks will be used to organize and waterproof the rest of your gear.


• Toiletries
  All travel size (in a plastic bag).  If necessary, you will be able to restock en route.


• Moleskin
  One full package for blister protection.

• Sunglasses & Hat
  With visor (e.g., baseball cap).

• Sunscreen (SPF 15+), Chapstick (with SPF protection) & Insect Repellent


• Paperback Book and/or Journal
  Optional.

• Camera/Batteries/Memory Card

Optional. Interested in seeing your photographs or videos on Overland's website next year? Bring a camera with lots of pixels (10 or more) and lots of memory (4GB or more). Buying a new camera? One of our favorites is the Canon PowerShot SD960 IS digital camera.

• Spending Money
  $50/week for souvenirs, gifts and necessities (like more sunscreen if you run out, camera film or envelopes to mail letters).

Note: Please do not bring any type of knife or multi-tool (e.g., Swiss Army Knife, Leatherman).

We do not permit personal electronics on our programs (e.g., cellphones and iPods). We do, however, allow students who fly to their program to carry a cell phone while traveling; on arrival, Overland's leaders will collect all cell phones for the duration of the program and return them for flights home. Perhaps, a better option would be to bring a pre-paid phone card so that the leaders do not have to carry cell phones for the duration of the program.

Admissions

Below is the Admissions Material packet and other information for Rocky Mountain Explorer.

Admission Material 2010

Flight & Travel Information 2010

Program Start & End Information 2010

Rocky Mountain Explorer Release Form 2010

Apply

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.