Summer Term

Four weeks, two expeditions, one unforgettable summer.

 

During the HMI Summer Term, rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders from across the country come to our campus in Leadville, Colorado, for a unique summer experience in the Rocky Mountains. They discover their best selves over two backpacking expeditions, develop and hone their leadership skills, and participate in writing workshops or ecology research.

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Explore Colorado

 Backpacking Expeditions

Writing Workshops

& Ecology Research

HMI Summer Term

On two 10-day backpacking expeditions, students learn how to travel and thrive in the rugged Rocky Mountains of Colorado. When they’re not in the field, they live on our campus in Leadville, Colorado, and participate in writing workshops or ecology research, producing a final personal essay or research project. Other activities include learning to rock climb at world-class crags and rafting the famous Arkansas River. 

HMI Summer Term students leave with the tools to thrive in classes, on sports teams, and as leaders in extracurricular activities in high school and beyond.

Who Should Apply?
  • High school freshman, sophomores and juniors interested in spending a month at HMI.
  • No previous outdoor experience is required. Students must be interested in spending extended periods (10 days) outdoors in wilderness settings.
  • About 40% of students receive need-based financial aid; top packages can include free outdoor gear rentals and cover flights to and from Colorado.

We believe qualified students should have access to the unique educational opportunities at HMI. Learn about HMI’s financial aid here.

Summer Term 2026

Dates: June 28 – July 25, 2026

Duration: 4 weeks
Age: Rising 10th, 11th, 12th grade

  • Backpacking & wilderness travel (2 trips, 10 days each)
  • Cabin living & residential life
  • Rock climbing
  • Whitewater rafting
  • Writing workshops & seminars
  • Ecology data collection & research

Tuition: $9,900 

Student Account Deposit: $500 (returned if unused)

Tuition and fees do not include flights to or from Denver.

If you are applying for financial aid, you must submit your financial aid application on Clarity when you submit your HMI application. 

For more information about financial aid, see this page.

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HMI Summer Term Families Are Saying

"HMI was a pivotal point in my life. It gave me experience and skills that I've relied on since. Backpacking and the outdoors have become a large part of my life that I've shared with friends, family, and pursued professionally. Without attending Summer Term '21 in Leadville, I know that I would not be who I am today."
Zach L.Summer Term '21 Student
Zach L.
"HMI Summer Term provided an amazing opportunity for our son to grow and see a part of the country he had yet to experience. He came home a noticeably more self-confident and capable young man then when he left ... We can't thank HMI and its incredible staff enough for making the summer one our son will remember for a lifetime."
Derek K.Summer Term '19 Parent
Derek K.

Why HMI Summer Term?

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High School Success

Students who participate in Summer Term return prepared to engage in their schools & communities.

 

8-10

students per expedition group

Each HMI Summer Term expedition group forms a strong, tight-knit community, and all students have the opportunity to develop as leaders.

Place-Based Learning

HMI Summer Term students participate in our writing & ecology curriculum on campus and in the field.

18

days backpacking in Colorado

HMI Summer Term staff are experienced instructors who teach technical and wilderness travel skills. 

Personal Growth

HMI Summer Term students challenge themselves & practice resilience.

40%

of students receive need-based financial aid

We’re proud to offer need-based financial aid for all of our programs. For more information, please visit our Tuition & Affordability page.

Why HMI Summer Term?

High School Success

Students who participate in Summer Term return prepared to engage in their schools & communities.

 

8-10

students per expedition group

Each HMI Summer Term expedition group forms a strong, tight-knit community, and all students have the opportunity to develop as leaders.

Place-Based Learning

HMI Summer Term students participate in our writing & ecology curriculum on campus and in the field.

18

days backpacking in Colorado

HMI Summer Term staff are experienced instructors who teach technical and wilderness travel skills. 

Personal Growth

HMI Summer Term students challenge themselves & practice resilience.

40%

of students receive need-based financial aid

We’re proud to offer need-based financial aid for all of our programs. For more information, please visit our Tuition & Affordability page.

Schedule a Call with Us

Let's Connect

We love hosting prospective students and families in Leadville, but we know it can be a trek. Check out our Instagram, blogs, and videos to get a better sense of life at HMI.

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