Yellowstone & Grand Teton

Wildlife of the West

$4,595

Tuition

14 days

Trip duration

6th - 8th | 9th - 12th

Grades

14 days

Inquire for Summer 2026

JAC or BZN

Arrival

BZN or JAC

Departure

$4,595

Tuition

14 days

Trip duration

Inquire for Summer 2026

6th - 8th | 9th - 12th

Grades

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Yellowstone National Park and the majestic Grand Tetons, where you witness breathtaking landscapes and the diverse wildlife that inhabit these extraordinary ecosystems. Team up with local conservation organizations to dive into the thrilling reintroduction of native gray wolves, while gaining insights into the challenges facing wolf, bison, and grizzly populations in the region. Feel the rush as you raft the exhilarating rapids of the Snake River, all while observing wildlife in their natural habitat. Visit the Teton Raptor Center for an up-close experience with incredible birds of prey. Through whitewater rafting, hiking, and swimming in these stunning wild spaces, we explore vital environmental and wildlife conservation issues confronting two of America’s most iconic national parks.

Highlights

Partner With Conservation Groups Studying Wolf and Grizzly Bear Populations
Conquer Class II and III Rapids While Whitewater Rafting the Snake River
Learn About Birds of Prey at the Teton Raptor Center
Discover the History of Yellowstone, America’s First National Park
Explore Grand Teton National Park’s Wildflower Meadows and Alpine Lakes
Visit the Iconic Mountain Towns of Jackson Hole, WY, and Bozeman, MT
Paddleboard Across Beautiful Mountain Lakes
Explore the Yellowstone Caldera’s Geysers, Hot Springs, and Mud Pots

Get the itinerary

Want to learn more about traveling with ARCC or have more questions about this program?

Schedule a Call with Brent Anderson

Wildlife Conservation & Tracking

Join wildlife researchers on impactful projects to support the conservation of Yellowstone’s iconic grizzlies, bison, and gray wolves. Track local wolf packs with skilled rangers, observing their territories and behaviors, and exploring abandoned dens for insights into their lives. Delve into grizzly conservation by shadowing specialists and interviewing biologists about the vital role these creatures play and the challenges they face. Get an up-close view of rescued eagles, falcons, and hawks at the Teton Raptor Center, where you discover the critical role raptors play in balancing the local ecosystem.

Hiking

Exploration

Front-Country Camping & Wilderness Exploration

Dive into the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone National Park with guided explorations that deepen your connection to nature. Hone your front-country camping skills at some of the country’s most picturesque campgrounds. Day hike through lush forests to reach stunning mountain overlooks, and marvel at natural wonders like geysers and vibrant volcanic hot springs. The majestic, snow-capped peaks of the Grand Teton Range serve as your backdrop as you discover the sights and sounds of Grand Teton National Park. Learn from knowledgeable Park Rangers about the powerful geologic forces that shaped this incredible region. Explore rocky cliffs and canyons, swim in hidden alpine lakes, and stroll through vibrant mountain meadows. *Authorized Permittee of Grand Teton National Park.

Camping

National Parks

Rafting Rapids & Paddleboarding Alpine Waters

Conquer the thrilling rapids of the Snake River as expert river guides teach you the art of whitewater rafting. Navigate exhilarating drops like “Big Kahuna” and “Lunch Counter,” then drift through calmer pools, where you can spot local wildlife and soak up breathtaking views of the Teton Range. Take on a new challenge with stand-up paddleboarding on stunning alpine lakes, exploring secluded coves and inlets as you glide across crystal-clear waters surrounded by unforgettable mountain scenery.

Rafting

Paddleboarding

Common Questions

Accordion #2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Is the cost of airfare separate from program tuition?

All food, lodging, transportation, and activities are paid for with your trip tuition. Families are responsible for booking flights or arranging transportation for students to meet their leaders and other group members at the program’s arrival airport.

What is the weather like during our adventure?

The weather will vary throughout our journey depending on location and elevation. The best time to visit the Grand Teton and Yellowstone region is during the summer which consists of warm, dry days and cooler evenings.

Where do we sleep?

This is an entirely camping-based program. You will sleep in tents in National Parks, State Parks, National Forest Service land, and private campsites. The majority of our campgrounds are “front-country,” meaning you will be close to the group’s van while camping. While at these “front-country” campgrounds, you will have restroom facilities and running water for drinking, cooking, and washing hands. Some campgrounds will also have showers on-site.

How will we travel?

Each group will travel together, with their two leaders, in a 15-passenger van and small trailer. The van and trailer will become the group’s home base throughout the program.

What is the food like?

Students are generally pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food on an ARCC program. The group will work together to create each unique menu and prepare delicious meals throughout the duration of this trip, with occasional meals out at local restaurants on travel days. Vegetarian and other dietary limitations (i.e., allergies, and food preferences) are easily catered for. Please let ARCC know of any dietary needs prior to the start of your program.

What are the service projects like?

ARCC has been operating programs in the U.S. for nearly four decades, and we have built relationships with a variety of individuals, small communities, and organizations that enjoy hosting ARCC student groups each summer. On this program, we will partner with local park organizations and nonprofits to learn about important conservation issues and help conserve the natural habitat across various state and national parks.

Do I really need to bring a backpack, or can I bring a rolling suitcase on this program?

While on this program you will not be completing a traditional backpacking trip, we do require each student to pack in either a backpack or duffle with shoulder straps. During the trip the group will be navigating through airports, throwing bags in and out of a trailer, lugging them to camp, and sometimes storing them inside a tent. Soft side bags with shoulder straps make it much easier to transport these bags.

Do I need some sort of ID to travel?

If you are traveling within the United States and are under the age of 18, airlines do not require photo identification. However, if you have a photo ID (driver’s license, school ID, etc.) it would be helpful.

If you are traveling to the U.S. from outside of the United States, you will need to bring your valid passport and possible visa, depending on where you are traveling from.

How much spending money should I bring?

We suggest bringing spending money of roughly $75/week. Most cash should come home, but you will want some personal money to pay for airline baggage fees at the airport, souvenirs/gifts, laundry, extra snacks, and emergencies (lost items, clinic visits, etc.). A small amount of cash combined with an ATM card usually works best.