Four Weeks of Backpacking, Ecology, and Writing in Colorado
During the HMI Summer Term, rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders from across the country engage in a unique summer experience in the Rocky Mountains. They discover their best selves over two backpacking trips, exploring the reaches of their potential and how to lead others.
2026 Summer Tuition & Dates
Summer 2026 Dates: June 28 – July 25, 2026
Summer 2026 Tuition: $9,900 ($353/day)
Tuition and fees do not include flights to/from the program
Student Account Deposit: $500
Student Account funds are returned if unused
4 Weeks in Leadville, Colorado
Two Backpacking Expeditions
Workshops & Seminars
HMI Rocky Mountain Wilderness Expeditions
Summer Term students participate in two 10-day backpacking expeditions in the Rocky Mountains around Leadville.
On two 10-day backpacking expeditions, students learn how to travel and thrive in the rugged wilderness of Colorado. Leadership and communication theory are central to the mission of HMI; in addition to wilderness skills, students practice leadership skills and learn how to collaborate and communicate with people from diverse backgrounds. They leave the Summer Term with the tools to thrive in high school classes, on sports teams, and as leaders in extracurricular activities.
Who should apply to HMI's Summer Program?
- High school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors interested in spending the summer at HMI.
- High-achieving students–HMI is not a wilderness therapy or rehabilitative school.
- No previous outdoor experience is required to participate in HMI–only an interest in spending extended periods of time (10 days at a time) outdoors in wilderness settings. We teach our students everything they need to know to fully participate in our outdoor activities.
- Approximately 35% of our student receive financial aid, and our aid packages can include free or reduced-price outdoor gear rental.
Parent testimonial
