“Outdoor Leadership Challenge” (OLC) is an immersive program designed for students who are excited to get outside, catering to both beginner and seasoned adventurers. The initial two days of this program will focus on building camaraderie through team-building activities, introductory wilderness skill workshops and familiarization with backcountry gear and meal planning. The core of the program unfolds on the trail, where participants will embark on a three-day, two-night self-supported backpacking journey through the San Juan Mountains. Equipped only with essentials on their backs, participants will put their newfound skills and preparation to the test. The final segment of OLC shifts to the river, where water safety and paddling techniques will be practiced on the lakeshore before venturing to the Labyrinth Canyon section of the Green River. Over the final four days and three nights of the program, participants will captain their own stand-up paddleboards or inflatable kayaks, covering 50+ miles of moving water amidst breathtaking sandstone cliffs. OLC concludes with a final night of celebration, providing an opportunity for students to reflect on their newly acquired knowledge and the friendships they’ve created through challenge and adventure! Adventure, teamwork, and unforgettable memories await!
Schedule
The Outdoor Leadership Challenge begins mid-day on Sunday, June 21, and concludes on Wednesday, July 1.
Sunday, June 21
Our program begins mid-day, and we’ll kick things off with icebreakers and team-building games as you get to know your group. Wind down the day with your first night camping locally beneath the stars!
Monday, June 22
A full day exploring the wild places around Telluride. Students will dive into more team-building challenges, practice essential wilderness skills, rock climb, and rappel in Bilk Creek, learn how to pack their backpacks, and prepare their own backcountry meals.
Tuesday, June 23 – Thursday, June 25
A three-day, two-night self-supported backpacking expedition into the San Juan Mountains. Trek through stunning alpine landscapes by day and unwind in peaceful mountain camps each night.
Friday, June 26
Transition day! Rest and recharge after the backpacking trip, then jump into a flat-water safety and paddle-technique workshop to prepare for the river expedition ahead.
Saturday, June 27 – Tuesday, June 30
Four days and three nights on the Labyrinth Canyon section of the Green River. Paddle 50 miles through towering canyon walls, camp on sandy beach islands, and soak up life on the river. The adventure wraps up with a final celebration at a group campsite in Moab, honoring the growth, learning, and friendships formed along the way.
Wednesday, July 1
One last morning together filled with hugs, high-fives, and reflection before returning to Telluride for a celebratory send-off and the conclusion of the program.
*All participants will receive Telluride Academy trekking backpacks, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads while participating in the backpacking portion of this program! We ask that you bring your student’s belongings in a duffel bag on the first morning so instructors can help students properly pack their provided backpacks.
*Students should feel comfortable hiking blue-level terrain with moderate weight on their backs. There is a potential that students may camp at elevations over 11,000 feet. We recommend arriving to Telluride a few days early for any student prone to altitude sickness.
*Students will be on the river for a portion of this program. Though PFDs will be worn on the water, students should be confident swimmers and feel comfortable around moving water.
Intermediate (Developing River Paddler)
Schedule:
Sunday, June 21st at 12 pm – Wednesday, July 1st at 2 pm
