ARCC’s Western U.S. Gap Semester provides access to some of America’s most beautiful and remote landscapes ranging from the jagged peaks of the Grand Tetons to the depths of Utah’s most spectacular canyons to the expansive deserts of Arizona and the dazzling turquoise waters of Hawaii.
Building upon our 40-year history of running domestic programs in the U.S., this semester provides hands-on opportunities and access to areas usually unavailable to the everyday traveler. Hiking through Grand Teton National Park and taking a quick plunge in a turquoise alpine lake, we explore some of the most pristine wilderness of the West. Partnering with local conservationists in Yellowstone National Park, we understand the current threats to native wolf and grizzly bear populations. Soaring atop the rapids in pristine desert landscapes, we retrace history as we address water rights issues while sleeping under brilliant starry skies. Building a toolkit of medical skills, we join the ranks of outdoor professionals as Wilderness First Responders. Getting our hands dirty being a part of building sustainable homes, we see first-hand the power and potential of renewable energy sources. Meeting with migrants along Arizona’s borderlands, we get an inside glimpse into one of our country’s most poignant challenges. Hiking through the pristine wilderness of the Big Island of Hawaii, we fall asleep to the sound of waves meeting the sand and soak up the towering peaks and valleys of this unique volcanic landscape. The newfound insights gained from this in-depth look at some of the most famous landmarks of the American West leave our perspectives and appreciation for our own backyard changed forever.
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