Join us as we take to the majestic mountains of Colorado! From Rocky Mountain National Park to the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness to the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, we'll explore all the very best of Colorado, hiking, whitewater rafting and rock climbing. And it's not all adventure - we'll have the opportunity to volunteer at Mission: Wolf, a wolf sanctuary. Certainly one of our favorite places, here we'll lend a hand to the staff and improve the lives of these majestic creatures. 5280' is one of RLT's newest middle school summer programs, designed especially for students ages 12-14. Click on Read More to learn more.

Certain moments in life should remembered forever. 5280' or mille passuum (ME-lay PA-soo-em) is one of them. We meet and greet one another in the mile high city of Denver, Colorado before heading off to Great Sand Dunes National Park, a top outdoor and adventure spot. Here we acclimatize, get to know one another, and spend the day exploring the park’s 39 miles of trackless sand at the edge of the snow-covered Rocky Mountains.

When we are done saucer-riding down the pure golden sand dunes, we move south to spend the next four days volunteering at Mission: Wolf, a peaceful sanctuary far away from civilization. Here, wolves roam freely, safe from humans. Gazing into their untamed yellow eyes, we are moved with respect. As the sun sets, we fall asleep to the howls of these magnificent creatures.

From Mission: Wolf, it is on to the upper Arkansas River Valley and the Collegiate Peaks. This area has few rivals. Wide U-shaped valleys open onto utterly breathtaking mountain scenery. Dozens of alpine lakes sparkle at the feet of striking rocky cirques and startling, glacier-sculpted high mountain splendor. The area is home to the Arkansas River and from the riverbed we can see how time and the elements have shaped the earth. We break out our rafts, and for the next two days, we splash and roll down the first 125 miles of the 1,400 mile trip to the Mississippi -- a wild ride of pour-overs, standing waves, sharp turns, and narrow chutes that soak us all with exhilaration.

We head to San Isabel National Forest where we all learn the basics of rock climbing, ropes, knots, and belaying. Before our journey ends, we immerse ourselves in hot springs that were used by Native Americans, explore the local ranching culture, and hike the Continental Divide. We enjoy our last moments together sharing a hearty meal and memories as the sunlight paints the peaks above in brilliant shades of red and orange.

Settling In

Arrive in Denver, Colorado; transfer to Great Sand Dunes National Park; orientation and day hikes.

Our Play

Two-day whitewater rafting trip down the Arkansas River; one day rock climbing in the Collegiate Peaks; explore the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Cottonwood Pass; swim hot springs; visit goat dairy and alpaca farm.

Our Work

4-day service work at Mission: Wolf

El Fin

Final banquet; transfer to Denver; Homeward Bound