A group of students navigates canoes through a rapid
Camera Will Stubblefield

Fall Semester in the Rockies with WFR

Duration

87 days

Age

17+ yrs

Tuition

$16,950 to $17,350

See Dates

Find new challenges on rivers, rock, and mountains

Explore the outdoors from canyons to mountains on the Semester in the Rockies. This course will be your opportunity to learn a variety of outdoor skills across the western United States and earn a Wilderness First Responder certification. Paddle down rapids on Utah rivers, break trail through Wyoming’s mountains, see ancient rock art, and climb high granite crags. The skills on your semester may include a combination of rock climbing, whitewater paddling, canyoneering, and backpacking. Each new skill will start with the basics and your instructors will teach everyone at their own level of experience. This means you’ll find plenty of support and new challenges whether you’re a beginner or an experienced outdoorsperson.

Leadership will be a primary focus. As you progress through the semester, you’ll build on the leadership skills you’ve learned throughout the course. For example, assessing a rapid is an opportunity to develop decision-making skills, while navigating hard terrain is an opportunity to practice tolerance for adversity. These experiences are real opportunities for you to test what you’re learning and develop your personal leadership style. By the end of this course, you’ll walk away prepared to be a leader in school, at home, and beyond.

Additional Details

Essential Eligibility Criteria


Want to Learn More?

Course Dates

2 courses

Aug 28 - Nov 22, 2025

Backpacking, Rock Climbing, Whitewater Paddling, Wilderness First Responder, Canyon Travel

SUMMER 2025

$17,350

Sep 7 - Dec 2, 2025

Backpacking, Rock Climbing, Wilderness First Responder, Canyon Travel, Winter

$17,350

More Fall Semester Courses

See Photos and Videos from Students and Instructors

What Our Grads Say

“NOLS taught me many things, from practical lessons in camping, rock climbing, and canoeing, to more nuanced lessons like how to give or take feedback, how to communicate more effectively, and the importance of nature in my personal life. Because of my time at NOLS I was introduced to a world that exceeded my imagination, gained a passion for the outdoors, and met many diverse and unique people.”

Start Your Experience Today


Call Us!