Which semester is right for you?
On each HMI Gap semester, students travel for 80 days through the wilderness in a tight-knit community of 8-12 peers and 2-3 instructors learning technical outdoor adventure skills, engaging in environmental studies and conservation projects, and growing as leaders.
In order to choose the semester that is right for you, ask yourself: what do I want to learn and where do I want to travel?
Students can apply to a semester that focuses on backpacking, rock climbing, or both. Our courses travel within the American West and Chilean Patagonia.
Rock
Fall in the American West & Patagonia
Trek
Fall in the American West & Patagonia
Spring in Patagonia
Traverse
- Fall in The American West
- Spring in The American West
Fall 2024 & Spring 2025 Program Availability
September 20 – December 8, 2025
Dates subject to minor change
Spend a semester rock climbing and traveling through the Colorado Rocky Mountains, Greater Canyonlands of Utah, and breathtaking Patagonia. You’ll go into great depth to advance your climbing and outdoor skills for the entire semester while studying pressing environmental issues and participating in hands-on conservation projects.
September 20 – December 8, 2025
Dates subject to minor change
Spend a semester backpacking and exploring the Colorado Rocky Mountains, Greater Canyonlands of Utah, and breathtaking Patagonia. Advance your backcountry wilderness skills while studying pressing environmental issues and participating in real-world conservation service work.
February 8th – April 28th, 2026
Dates subject to minor change
Spend a semester exploring breathtaking mountain regions, immersing yourself in Patagonia culture, and engaging with grassroots efforts that improve environmental and social sustainability.