When
Where
Fire Writing will take participants into the heart of the famed Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Women on the Water takes place on the gorgeous Missouri River Breaks.
River Ecology explores community conservation efforts in and along the Clark Fork, Big Hole, Blackfoot Rivers.
All courses begin and end in Missoula, Montana.
Permitted activity takes place in the Helena-Lewis & Clark National Forest and the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.
Semester Credits
Embark on a seven-day immersive journey starting and ending in Missoula, Montana, designed for curious adult learners seeking an engaging and community-focused educational adventure. The three unique programs blend intellectual exploration, guided activities, and a collaborative camp life, offering enriching and memorable experiences in the heart of Montana’s stunning landscapes.
With two highly qualified instructors, this is not a recreationally guided trip but rather a “guided education experience” where participants will be supported and encouraged to grow. While self-sufficiency is key, participants will also receive coaching as needed to navigate camp life and group dynamics.
Program Features:
- Engaging Curriculum: Each morning begins with 5–20 pages of thought-provoking reading, followed by learning activities during the day and evening discussions around a campfire.
- Collaborative Camp Life: All food, beverages (including beer and wine), and group gear are provided. Participants contribute by helping with camp duties such as cooking, cleaning, and managing gear, fostering a sense of shared purpose and camaraderie.
- Flexible Participation: Open to all adult learners, this program welcomes individuals with varying levels of experience. Bring your own personal gear and a willingness to engage fully in this dynamic learning environment.
With a minimum group size of six participants and a maximum of 10-12, these programs promise small, intimate settings ideal for fostering meaningful connections. A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot. Join us for a week of discovery, learning, and connection in some of Montana’s most beautiful regions! Although not for college credit, these adult courses provide invaluable opportunities to expand your knowledge, skillset, and résumé.
Fire Writing: Disturbance & Renewal
Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Bob Marshall Wilderness while exploring the connections between fire ecology and the art of creative writing. This unique course examines how fire shapes the Western landscape and draws metaphoric parallels to the process of editing and refining written work.
Offered in partnership with the Freeflow Institute, this program combines expert instruction in both ecological science and creative writing. Together, we aim to foster a deeper connection between participants, the natural world, and their creative practices.
Over the course of the program, you’ll engage in discussions and activities that illuminate fire’s ecological role, from its transformative effects on the environment to its importance in renewal and resilience. Each day will weave together guided writing exercises, reflective editing practices, and insights into the science of fire.
Participants will hike up to 5 miles per day on trails with minimal elevation gain (~2,000 feet total), making this an accessible yet adventurous experience. Nights are spent under the stars, fostering deep connections with the landscape and your creative process.
Whether you’re a seasoned writer, a budding ecologist, or simply a curious learner, this course offers an unparalleled opportunity to grow creatively while gaining a deeper understanding of fire’s role in the natural world.
Women on the Water
Journey through the breathtaking Missouri River Breaks on a week-long paddling expedition designed to inspire, challenge, and connect. This course offers women and female-identifying adults a unique opportunity to explore one of Montana’s most iconic Wild and Scenic rivers while fostering a vibrant, supportive community.
Over the course of seven days—five spent on the river—participants will paddle 61 miles of calm waters by canoe or kayak, engaging in daily guided interdisciplinary discussions that blend environmental philosophy, conservation science, and personal reflection. Participants will reflect on the lessons offered by the river and its ecosystems, considering how women’s unique perspectives and strengths can shape conservation efforts.
This immersive experience emphasizes community, collaboration, and connection. Meals, snacks, transportation, and all necessary gear are provided, allowing participants to focus fully on engaging with the landscape and each other. Group size is capped at 12 to foster meaningful conversations and connections around the campfire and on the water.
Whether you’re seeking inspiration, insight, or camaraderie, this program offers a transformative exploration of both the natural world and our roles within it. Join us in the Missouri River Breaks and discover the power of community and resilience on and off the water.
River Ecology: Community & Conservation
Explore the dynamic interplay between ecology and community-driven conservation in the waterways of western Montana. This immersive program focuses on three iconic rivers—the Clark Fork River, Big Hole River, and Blackfoot River—delving into their ecological significance and the collaborative efforts to protect them. Partnering with organizations such as the Big Hole Watershed Committee, Clark Fork Coalition, and Blackfoot Challenge, this course offers unique insights into grassroots conservation initiatives.
Designed for adult learners, this program emphasizes site visits, day trips, and engaging discussions rather than strenuous physical activity. With flexible daily schedules, participants can tailor their learning experience by choosing from differentiated activities led by expert instructors. Camping near these rivers adds an enriching, close-to-nature component, perfect for those seeking a meaningful yet accessible exploration of Montana’s rivers.
This course invites you to connect with the landscapes, communities, and conservation efforts shaping the future of western Montana’s waterways.
