Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Dates
July 24-29
Duration
6 Days
Grades Entering
6th-8th
Rate
$1,549
ROCK CLIMBING - BACKPACKING - HIKING
This program explores the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park. This trip includes an overnight backpacking trip, followed by rock climbing where you will gain basic rock climbing skills within the world-renowned park.
Activities & Skills

1 DAY
Climbing
Rock climbing is the art or moving up or along natural rock formations with the use of specialized gear. It can be both physically and mentally demanding as it requires both endurance and agility to overcome the obstacles and puzzles that the climbing path presents. With safety systems in place, rock climbing is a fun and rewarding sport that is as difficult as you want it to be, and as safe as any other outdoor activity.

2 DAYS
Hiking
Hiking on trail presents the perfect opportunity to slowly and quietly take in the beauty and wonder of our natural environment. Along the way, we will focus on map reading and compass skills, hiking etiquette, and leave no trace principles. We might stop to observe wildlife, or look closely at the different rock types— around every bend of the trail is a new vista, a new memory, and a new learning opportunity. Take one step at a time—a valuable life lesson—as each trail presents its own unique challenges to overcome.

2 DAYS
Backpacking
Backpacking involves carrying everything needed on your back— including clothes, tent, sleeping bag, and food-- to thrive for multiple days in the wilderness. The challenge is felt literally on your shoulders, while the reward of cooking in the backcountry with your friends, sleeping in your tent with the sounds of nature, and getting away from modern amenities is immeasurable.

First & Last Day
On the first day we'll meet at Keystone Science School's campus, get checked in and meet the rest of our group at the Trip Briefing. We'll go over our gear list and make sure our packs are ready. Then we'll load up the van and head to our Adventure location, usually an hour or more of travel. Once we get to our location, we'll learn some of the basics of the activities to follow, like gear, basic climbing systems or river safety. Then we'll cook dinner and have our first Evening Meeting as we get to know each other.
On the final day after activities are done, we'll head back to KSS, and have our Pin Ceremony where we award campers for their acheivements.
Schedule and duration of activities are subject to change.
Backpacking or Basecamping?
This Adventure Utilizes Backpacking
Backpacking involves carrying everything needed on your back— including clothes, tent, sleeping bag, and food-- to thrive for multiple days in the wilderness. The challenge is felt literally on your shoulders, while the reward of cooking in the backcountry with your friends, sleeping in your tent with the sounds of nature, and getting away from modern amenities is immeasurable. Whether it’s managing the group’s navigation, taking initiative helping someone with the weight of their pack, or helping to cut vegetables for the night’s meal, the social skills we develop on the trail transfer to school, sports, and future careers.
Important Info
Adventure FAQs Apply for a Scholarship Payment & Cancellation PolicyFrom Parents
Words of camper parents from our 2022 Adventure programs.
"My kid looks forward to this every year! It is so important for her to get out of her usual routine and meet new people and get a chance to be on her own."
"KSS is important to give my son experiences in nature and in new areas of the state."
"No phones. Dedicated time to focus on self. Reminders about gratitude. Getting in touch with nature. The counselors are strong, sweet, great role models."
"We love KSS. The growth our kids have each summer is priceless. Thank you for all the hard work, planning and everything (heart) that goes into what you do!"
Have questions?
Visit our FAQ page to read our most asked questions for Adventures.