Rocky Mountain National Park is a classroom without walls.
Join us for a hands-on learning experience. Whether you want to identify alpine wildflowers, learn about wildlife, paint outside, or explore the park’s history, our Field Institute connects you with experts and experiences that bring the park to life.
Our field-based programs range from half-day introductions to full-day and multi-day courses. Many classes fill quickly, so register early to secure your spot.
Choose your Rocky experience.
Field Institute courses, scenic tours, guided hikes, and custom programs offer a range of options with varying levels of activity. Explore the adventures below to find one that best matches your group.
Field Institute Courses
Explore Rocky Mountain National Park through expert-led courses that bring its landscapes, wildlife, history, and stories to life.
Explore Courses
Guided Hikes
Find your trail, meet fellow hikers, and experience some of Rocky Mountain National Park’s most memorable destinations.
Explore Guided Hikes
Scenic Ecology Tours
Leave the driving to us on family-friendly educational bus tours led by expert naturalist guides. Park entry, timed entry permits, and unforgettable views are included.
Explore Scenic Tours
Bettie Programs
Build skills, confidence, and community through outdoor experiences created for women.
Explore Bettie Programs
Volunteer Opportunities
Give back through hands-on stewardship projects that help protect Rocky’s trails, habitats, and visitor resources.
Find Volunteer Opportunities
Special Events
Discover new ways to connect with Rocky through stories, research, art, and ideas shared by experts and creatives.
Explore Special EventsCustom and private programs
Looking for a program for your group? Choose a guided hike, scenic bus tour, or custom Field Institute course tailored to your group’s interests, abilities, and schedule.
Request a Custom ProgramKnow before you go
Start with these essentials, then review the common questions below for more detail about gear, difficulty, accessibility, and other course logistics.
Park access is included
Registration includes park entrance fees for the duration of the program, and a timed entry permit, if needed.
Bring the right gear
Pack for variable weather conditions. Bring warm layers, sun protection, and rain gear. Wear sturdy footwear, and come prepared with enough water and food for the full length of your program.
Choose the right challenge
Each listing describes the program’s physical challenge, and keep in mind that all programs occur above 8,000 feet in elevation. Contact us early about modifications or accessible transportation.
Refunds & Cancellations
Our programs proceed rain or shine. Should we need to cancel due to hazardous road or weather conditions, you’ll be notified by phone or email and full refunds will be issued automatically.
Wait-list availability, cancellation dates, meeting locations, and any additional gear requirements are given on each program’s registration page and in the confirmation email.
Field Institute frequently asked questions
Review the practical details that help you register confidently and arrive prepared. Contact the Education Team if your question is not covered here.
Email the Education TeamAre lodging or camping included with my program?
No. Participants are responsible for their own overnight accommodations. The Conservancy does not have overnight facilities.
Can I purchase food in the park during my program?
Food is generally not available for purchase during Field Institute courses or scenic tours. Bring all the food and water you will need for the day.
Limited water may be available for refilling bottles on the Conservancy vehicle. You may leave extra snacks, gear, or bottles of water on the vehicle during the program.
Will I have cell service or WiFi during my program?
Cell service and WiFi are limited or unavailable in many areas of Rocky Mountain National Park. Download maps and program information before you leave, and let friends or family know you may be out of contact.
Conservancy staff carry emergency communication devices. Traffic, weather, or other conditions can change the agenda. If a program will return more than 30 minutes late, staff will post a message at the meeting location for waiting friends and family.
Are accommodations available for people with disabilities?
Yes. The Conservancy has an ADA-accessible vehicle and works with partner organizations to identify appropriate options. Contact the Field Institute as soon as possible, and no less than two weeks before your program, at [email protected] or 970-586-3262.
Is there a waitlist for sold out programs?
Yes. Join the waitlist through the program’s Eventbrite listing. If a space becomes available, people on the list are notified by email and have 24 hours to claim the spot before the next person is contacted.
How physically challenging is my program?
Each course listing includes a challenge level. Contact the Field Institute as early as possible about modifications or alternatives. Same-day modification requests generally cannot be accommodated.
Level 1: All Users. Appropriate for all participants, including bus tours. Programs may include optional walks on hardened surfaces. Wheelchair-accessible transportation is available by request.
Level 2: Easy. Frequent short walks with ample breaks on paved or hardened surfaces, moderate slopes, occasional stairs, and some unmaintained grassy areas. Transportation may require stepping into a 15-passenger van.
Level 3: Moderate. Best for participants with some hiking experience. Expect two to six miles of travel and several hours on your feet across trails, meadows, or wooded areas.
Level 4: Challenging. Rigorous hiking on longer, steeper trails at elevations above 8,000 feet, including rough, loose, or uneven terrain. Participants should be able to hike about 1.5 miles per hour while carrying food, water, and layers.
Programs may travel between 8,000 and 11,000 feet. Anyone can experience altitude sickness. Participants coming from below 5,000 feet should consider spending two or three days acclimating before the program. Drink plenty of water, bring substantial food, and tell staff immediately if you feel unwell.
Who should I contact with questions about my course?
Contact the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Field Institute at [email protected] or 970-586-3262. The Conservancy manages course logistics on behalf of instructors and is the best place to start.
Turn curiosity into stewardship.
The Conservancy also supports emerging educators and researchers whose work strengthens visitor learning, resource protection, and park management. These opportunities belong within the larger learning story—but each has a distinct application path.
Find your next Rocky adventure
Check out our upcoming courses and tours! Our calendar includes dates, logistics, difficulty, and registration details.