ARCC’s Western U.S. Gap Semester provides access to some of America’s most beautiful and remote landscapes ranging from the jagged peaks of the Grand Tetons to the depths of Utah’s most spectacular canyons to the expansive deserts of Arizona and the dazzling turquoise waters of Hawaii. Explore some of the most pristine wilderness of the West and partner with local conservationists to understand threats to native species, ecological systems, and our waterways. Building upon our 40-year history of running domestic programs in the U.S., this semester provides hands-on opportunities and access to areas usually unavailable to the everyday traveler. The newfound insights gained from this in-depth look at some of the most famous landmarks of the American West leave our perspectives and appreciation for our own backyard changed forever.
Western U.S.
Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Arizona
70 Days
Trip duration
12+
Grades
70 Days
Fall: Sep 1 - Nov 9, 2025
Jackson Hole, WY (JAC)
Arrival
Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
Departure
$15,500
Tuition
70 Days
Trip duration
Fall: Sep 1 - Nov 9, 2025
12+
Grades
Overview
Program Highlights
- Explore the West’s Most Spectacular National Parks, including Yellowstone, Arches, Zion, and the Grand Canyon
- Study Grizzly Bears, Bison, and Gray Wolves in Montana and Colorado
- Participate in a Multi-Day Rafting Trip through Pristine Desert Landscape
- Work alongside an Organization Building Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Housing
- Develop and Strengthen Backpacking Skills with the Support of Your Instructor
- Learn about Immigration Reform and Social Justice Initiatives along the Southern Border
- Build a Toolkit of Medical Skills Through a Wilderness First Aid Course
- Gain Wilderness and Leadership Skills Culminating in a Student Planned Module
Want to learn more about traveling with ARCC or have more questions about this program?
Schedule a Call with Alex Morton
The West’s Best National Parks & Monuments
Explore many of the West's Best National Parks and Monuments. Hike the famous “Narrows” trail in Zion, spot wildlife in the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Parks. Take in the enormity of the Great Sand Dunes. Visit and hike the Unique Landscapes of Canyonlands, Arches and the Grand Canyon. Dive deeper into environmental and social issues affecting the US' National Parks.
Hiking
Sightseeing
Adventure
Develop and strengthen your backpacking skills starting with an overnight backpack beneath the grand peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Later in the program, spend four days backpacking in the picturesque Coconino National Forest and have the opportunity to plan another backpack as part of the culminating Student Planned Module. Raft the San Juan River learning more about the flora, fauna, and history of the region.
Backpacking
Multi-Day Rafting
WFA Certification
Ecological Restoration and Conservation
Study grizzly bears, bison and wolves in Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, and discuss the impacts of climate change and human impact on wildlife. Work directly with a NGO focusing on wolf rehabilitation and conservation. Discuss water issues within the Western US while rafting and seeing the issue first hand.
Conservation
Wildlife Rehabilitation
Social Justice
Explore the causes and challenges of migration, as well as the impact that U.S. immigration policies have on individuals and families while working with a local organization that raises awareness around immigration issues. Work alongside an organization building sustainable and eco-friendly housing for the native Navajo population and learn about the ethos of this industrious and inspiring community.
Social Justice
Indigenous Rights & Histories
Have questions? Speak to one of our Program Directors, give them a call at (415) 332.5075 , they love talking about their trips!
