Discover the wonders of Yellowstone National Park and explore the towering peaks of the Grand Tetons while observing the wildlife that calls these unique ecosystems home. Partner with local conservation organizations to learn about the reintroduction of native Gray Wolves and gain an understanding of the issues that center on wolf, bison, and grizzly populations in the region. Raft the exciting rapids of the Snake River while watching wildlife in their natural habitat and visit the Teton Raptor Center to get up close and personal with native birds of prey. While whitewater rafting, hiking, swimming, and stand-up paddle boarding through these incredible wild spaces, we examine the important environmental and wildlife conservation issues confronting two of the country’s most iconic national parks.
Yellowstone & Grand Teton
Wildlife of the West
14 days
Trip duration
7th – 12th
Grades
14 days
July 6 – July 19
July 25 – August 7
Jackson, WY
Arrival & Departure
$4,095
Tuition
14 days
Trip duration
July 6 – July 19
July 25 – August 7
7th – 12th
Grades
*Airfare purchased separately
Overview
Highlights
- Partner with Local Conservation Organizations to Understand the Important Issues Affecting Native Wolf and Grizzly Bear Populations of Yellowstone National Park
- Tackle the Class II and III Rapids While Whitewater Rafting the Scenic Snake River
- Stand Up Paddle Board Across an Alpine Lake with the Incredible Teton Range as Your Backdrop
- Visit the Famous Teton Raptor Center to Learn About Birds of Prey and Important Conservation of these Native Predators
- Discover the Incredible History of Yellowstone, America’s First National Park, and Explore Iconic Sites Such as Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring
- Explore Grand Teton National Park and Discover Wildflower-filled Meadows and Turquoise Alpine Lakes
- Learn About “America’s Greatest Idea”, the National Park System, and Examine the Increased Use of Public Lands
- Walk Inside the Yellowstone Caldera to Discover a World of Geysers, Hot Springs, and Bubbling Mud Pots
Outdoor Skills
Gain a deeper understanding of an awe-inspiring landscape through guided explorations in Yellowstone National Park. Build your front-country camping skills at some of the most beautiful campgrounds in the country. Day hike through forests to stunning mountain overlooks, or witness natural wonders like geysers and colorful volcanic hot springs. The snowcapped, jagged peaks of the Grand Teton Range provide the backdrop for exploring the sights and sounds of Grand Teton National park. Learn from Park Rangers about the geologic forces that shaped the majestic Teton Range and explore the park’s rocky cliffs and canyons, swim in hidden alpine lakes, and saunter through beautiful mountain meadows.
Exploration
Wildlife and Environmental Conservation
Assist wildlife researchers with vital projects helping to better understand and conserve grizzly bears, bison, and gray wolves, Yellowstone’s most iconic megafauna. Take time tracking local wolf packs with skilled rangers and observe their territories, behaviors, and study abandoned wolf dens. Take a further dive into grizzly conservation in the National Park, shadowing specialists and interviewing biologists about the important roles of grizzlies and ongoing threats to their populations. Visit the Teton Raptor Center for an up close look at rescued eagles, falcons, and hawks and learn about the importance of raptors in the local ecosystem.
Conservation
Wildlife
Adventure
Tackle the exciting rapids of the Snake River while learning new whitewater rafting skills from experienced river guides. Alternate between thrilling rapids such as “Big Kahuna” and “Lunch Counter” and pools of slower water which allow you to search for local wildlife and take in unbelievable views of the Teton Range, a day perfect for gaining a new perspective on this incredible landscape. Practice stand-up paddleboarding on beautiful alpine lakes with mountain backdrops. Explore coves and inlets lining the shore as you glide across calm waters and are surrounded by beautiful views.
Rafting
Common Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
Have questions? Speak to one of our Program Directors, give them a call at (415) 332.5075 , they love talking about their trips!
