Rocky Mountain National Park is a classroom without walls.
Whether you want to identify alpine wildflowers, learn about elk and other wildlife, paint outside, introduce children to the park, or simply enjoy the view, our Field Institute connects you with experts and experiences that bring the park to life.
Our field-based programs range from half-day introductions and family outings to full-day and multi-day courses. Many classes fill quickly, so register early to find the right fit.
Choose your day in the field.
Field courses, scenic tours, and private programs offer different levels of depth, activity, and flexibility. Start with the experience that best matches your group.
Field Institute courses
Go deeper with expert-led courses in wildflowers, wildlife, cultural history, outdoor skills, photography, painting, writing, and more.
Explore Field Institute Courses
Scenic ecology tours
Leave the driving to us while a naturalist interprets Trail Ridge Road, the alpine tundra, wildlife, and fall color. Family-friendly options and accessible transportation are available.
Explore Scenic Tours
Custom experiences
Choose a private hike, wildlife or ecology tour, or custom Field Institute course designed for your group’s interests, abilities, and schedule.
Plan a Custom ProgramBettie Courses carry a legacy forward.
Named for alpine researcher and conservation advocate Dr. Beatrice “Bettie” Willard, these courses encourage women to learn about conservation while recreating outside. Scholarship support may be available to help remove financial barriers, so contact the Field Institute for details.
Contact UsA little preparation goes a long way.
Start with these essentials, then review the common questions below for more detail about accessibility, difficulty, wait lists, cancellations, and course logistics.
Park access is included
Course and tour registration includes park entrance fees and any timed entry permit needed during official program hours.
Pack for mountain weather
Bring sturdy footwear, two liters of water, food for the day, rain gear, warm layers, sun protection, medications, and any course-specific materials.
Choose the right challenge
Each listing describes physical difficulty. Contact us early about modifications or accessible transportation, ideally at least two weeks before your program.
Plan your stay
Lodging and camping are not included. Cell service is limited in much of the park, so download maps and program details before heading out.
Wait-list availability, cancellation and transfer terms, exact meeting locations, and any additional gear requirements are listed with each program in Eventbrite.
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.
Contact UsDoes my registration include park entry and a timed entry permit?
Yes. Registration includes all entrance fees and a timed entry permit when one is required during official program hours. You do not need to purchase your own pass or timed entry permit for the course.
If you plan to enter the park outside the official course times, you will need to arrange your own entrance fee and timed entry permit.
Are lodging or camping reservations included?
No. Participants are responsible for their own overnight accommodations. The Conservancy does not have overnight facilities.
Do I need to bring food and water?
Yes. Bring all the food and water you will need for the day. Limited water may be available for refilling bottles on the Conservancy vehicle, but food is generally not available for purchase during Field Institute courses or bus tours.
You may leave extra snacks, gear, or bottles of water on the vehicle during the program.
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.
Will I have cell phone service during the course?
Cell service is limited 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.
How physically challenging is my course?
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.
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 wait list for sold-out programs?
Yes. Join the wait list 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.
What is the cancellation and transfer policy?
Cancellations made more than 30 days before the program are eligible for a full refund, less processing fees. Cancellations made fewer than 30 days in advance are not eligible for a refund except in extenuating circumstances.
Registration may be transferred to another course when the request is received at least 30 days before the earlier course date. Participants are responsible for any additional course fee or receive a refund for the difference when applicable.
Email [email protected] or call 970-586-3262 with cancellation or transfer questions.
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.