Western U.S.

Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Arizona

$15,500

Tuition

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

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.

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 Rock Climbing Skills with Certified Guides in Arizona at Idyllic Crags

Get the itinerary

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

Schedule a Call with Emily Rosser

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. Learn basic rock climbing skills through an introductory course with certified guides.

Backpacking

Multi-Day Rafting

WFA Certification

Rock Climbing

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.