Outward Bound courses take place outdoors and include activities that present risks that can be managed but not eliminated. Running our courses safely is central to our educational goals and our safety record is excellent. Our instructors not only identify and reduce risks but also teach students to assess and address hazards with preparation and care, rather than fear and avoidance. Students and their families participate in our safety systems by familiarizing students with the course description prior to the course and by filling out our application and medical forms completely. We regularly review our safety training systems with our peers and other industry experts and continually seek to create or adopt the most effective practices. Every course is equipped with the ability to get help in an emergency. For more information, visit our Safety & Risk Management page.

Colorado Rocky Mountain courses begin in Denver, Colorado, at Denver International Airport (DEN), where students are met by staff from the Colorado Outward Bound School (COBS). After meeting the group, participants travel by van to the course area near Leadville, Colorado. Transportation is provided at both the start and end of the course between the airport and the course area.

Outward Bound Instructors are highly trained professionals with extensive experience managing risk in outdoor environments. All Instructors are Wilderness First Responder certified, complete rigorous training and annual evaluations, and follow comprehensive safety plans informed by ongoing reviews. Those leading technical activities hold additional certifications, and all Instructors focus on teaching students how to assess and manage risk confidently and responsibly.

Beyond technical expertise, Instructors focus on building a positive group culture where students actively participate in safety systems, build confidence, and return home with the skills to care for themselves, others, and the environment.

This course is a totally screen-free adventure! Although some students are hesitant about this at first, many reflect on their experience as a well-needed break from screens and social media. No phones means more time to be present with nature and crewmates too.

Nope! Students don’t need prior experience with camping, backpacking, or outdoor skills. Our Instructors teach everything from packing backpacks to setting up sleep shelters, and students don’t need to be all‑star athletes to thrive. What matters most is enthusiasm, curiosity, and a willingness to try new things and step outside comfort zones. Students also don’t need to be experienced swimmers; they should simply be comfortable swimming short distances while wearing a personal flotation device (PFD). Many participants find their confidence in the water grows naturally over the course, with instructors there to support and

Our course foods are lightweight, nonperishable, and fuel your active days. Because our programs involve high levels of physical activity, carbohydrates are a key part of the menu. While on course, students will work together to prepare their own meals. Examples of foods you might enjoy include: bagels, cheese, granola, oatmeal, dried fruit, hummus, peanut butter, pita, salami, tortillas, tuna, trail mix, noodles, rice, beans, soup, and chili.