Wyoming

Off the Map: Exploring the Heart of the Tetons by Boot and Boat

Program No. 22447RJ

Explore Grand Teton National Park through hikes, a float trip and a ferry as you learn about the park’s history and natural wonders, while staying at the historic, rustic Murie Ranch.

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

What’s Included:

5 nights of accommodations

14 meals (5 B, 5 L, 4 D)

3 expert-led lectures

9 expert-led field trips

1 hands-on experience

An experienced Group Leader

Customary gratuities throughout the program

Road Scholar Assurance Plan

Taxes

Good To Know:

Cancel & Transfer Policy

Trip Protection

Daily Weather Averages

Off the Map: Exploring the Heart of the Tetons by Boot and Boat

Program No. 22447RJ Deposit at Enrollment: 100 Final payment due: 59 days before departure date

Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Note: These fees apply to at least one date of this program, but may vary by date. Program enrollments are on a per person basis and substitutions are not permitted.

If you transfer or cancel:

fee will be applied if you do not call Road Scholar Participant Services at least one business day prior to the program start date.

Transfer Fee: 100% of trip total

Cancel Fee: 100% of trip total

less than 30 days prior to the program start date

Transfer Fee: 50% of trip total

Cancel Fee: 50% of trip total

up to 30 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: $0.00

up to 30 days prior to the program start date

Cancel Fee: $100.00

If you transfer or cancel:	Transfer Fee:	Cancel Fee:
fee will be applied if you do not call road scholar participant services at least one business day prior to the program start date.	100% of trip total	100% of trip total
less than 30 days prior to the program start date	50% of trip total	50% of trip total
up to 30 days prior to program start date	$0.00
up to 30 days prior to the program start date		$100.00

Road Scholar Program Terms and Conditions

How to Enroll in a Program

Call Us or Enroll Online To enroll

Please call us toll free at (877) 426-8056, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET. You may also enroll online at www.roadscholar.org. To reserve space on a program, Road Scholar requires a deposit followed by final payment.

Road Scholar is Not-For-Profit

Road Scholar is a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that incurs over $5 million annually on credit card fees. Please help us reduce this cost by paying for your program with a check. Please consider our paperless check option when paying on the phone or over the Internet. Our Advisors are happy to explain this payment option to you.

Tax-Deductible Donations

As a not-for-profit organization, we appreciate and rely on charitable donations to help us develop and maintain high-quality educational programs with exceptional value. Donations from U.S. citizens are tax-deductible as provided by law. As Road Scholar is not a registered charity in Canada, donations are not tax deductible for Canadian citizens.

Financial Assistance

Road Scholar offers two kinds of assistance: Scholarships, for those with desire but not the financial means to participate in our U.S.- or Canada-based learning adventures; and Caregiver Grants, designed to provide a unique respite opportunity for unpaid family caregivers to participate in a U.S.- or Canada-based Road Scholar program. Visit www.roadscholar.org/about/financial-assistance/scholarships, email us at scholarships@roadscholar.org, or call us toll free at (877) 426-8056.

General Program Information

Activity Level Ratings

Each Road Scholar program is assigned an Activity Level rating, ranging from Easy Going to Challenging, which are noted on program webpages. Try our Advanced Search tool to find programs that match your activity level. If you have special needs, or need a little extra help in finding the right program for your level of fitness and ambition, please call us and we’ll work to find options for you.

Disabilities and Special Needs

Road Scholar is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to participants with special needs and disabilities. If you have special needs requiring accommodation, please communicate them to Road Scholar at the time of enrollment. We will discuss your request with you and make every effort to accommodate you.

Service Learning

Our Service Learning programs bring participants together to work as a team to serve worthy projects. Road Scholar and sponsoring service institutions are not-for-profit organizations and are tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The program price may qualify as a tax-deductible gift. However, since individual circumstances vary, we suggest participants contact their tax advisors.

Included Emergency Assistance and Medical Evacuation Insurance

Road Scholar’s continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified in our Road Scholar Assurance Plan. Whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our programs overseas, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under the Road Scholar Assurance Plan. This plan is purchased by Road Scholar on behalf of every participant. The plan provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation. This plan includes insurance benefits underwritten by Arch Insurance Company and emergency assistance services provided by LiveTravel Assist. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/included-insurance/

Travel Health

In addition to maintaining necessary vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccination, Road Scholar recommends all participants consult with their physician, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of State regarding their health condition and any recommendations specific to the destinations they will visit or transit well before departure. While Road Scholar does its best to provide pertinent information regarding international health requirements and travel health precautions for travel abroad, please remember we are not health experts and can only share with you the recommendations made by the CDC and the US Department of State. It It is therefore your responsibility to consult with your physician and/or contact the CDC for health information specific to your travel destination. Your physician will be able to assess your overall health and fitness, provide information and guidance on health risks you may encounter while traveling, medication you may need to take, and other precautions for the prevention of injury and illness during your program.

Staying healthy is critical to enjoying your program experience, and taking common sense steps to reduce the risk of getting sick.

A week before you depart on your program, consider limiting your exposure to others. If you must be in public in the week prior to departure, wear a mask.
Do not travel if you are sick, have any symptoms of illness, or if you have had close contact with a person who is ill. Do not risk traveling if you are not feeling well.
Bring a few face masks to the program. Wearing a well-fitted mask is an effective means of protection against airborne viruses, including COVID-19. Wear a mask whenever around others, including when flying and transiting airports. Once on your program, wear a mask whenever you are in public settings, especially if you have a weakened immune system or an underlying medical condition.
Wash your hands often and practice good hygiene.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Once on the program, if you do begin to feel ill or have symptoms of illness, immediately isolate and notify the Group Leader.

For those looking for additional resources on this topic, we recommend trusted sources such as your physician, the US Department of State, CDC, and WHO.

U.S. Department of State: www.travel.state.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/

Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. To learn more about Road Scholar’s commitment to our participants’ well-being and the steps you can take to keep yourself healthy when traveling, please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/general-health-safety/

Please also be sure to review our Travel Updates webpage for the latest travel information, steps we are taking to keep your program experience as safe as possible, as well as helpful information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there. www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/travel-updates/

Domestic Travel Arrangements

Programs in the United States and Canada require independent arrivals and departures unless otherwise stated, meaning that you must make your own travel arrangements to and from the program site. If you are flying to your program, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 60 days prior to your program in the United States or Canada to purchase airfare.

International Travel Arrangements

Road Scholar Can Help Arrange Your International Airfare

Almost all of our international programs can be purchased with airfare arranged by Road Scholar. We have negotiated special international rates with major airlines. A list of departure cities can be found by visiting our website or calling to speak with one of our experienced Advisors. As an added benefit, guaranteed airport transfers on the program’s published start and end date are included with your international air travel when arranged through Road Scholar. If your preferred airport is not listed, or you would like to travel on a different day, travel in premium or business class, specify the airline or routing, or travel independently before or after our program, we are happy to customize and create a personalized air travel itinerary to meet your needs. Select the “Custom Flight Arrangements” option and then the airport you want, or discuss your flight preferences with one of our expert air Travel Advisors.

Arranging Your Own International Airfare

If you choose to make your own international air travel arrangements, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 90 days prior to your International program to purchase airfare,

Road Scholar Optional Trip Protection with “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

The optional Road Scholar Trip Protection Plan helps protect your investment if you must cancel or interrupt your program for specified, covered reasons, such as illness or injury to you, your traveling companion or an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion. Plus, if you need to cancel your program for any reason not covered by insurance, you will receive a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar for the full amount of the Road Scholar cancellation fee. The plan also provides benefits if you are delayed getting to or returning home from your program and protects your investment should you have an emergency during your program that causes you to miss program days or return home earlier than expected. Your airfare, whether purchased through Road Scholar or independently, is covered at no additional cost — an exceptional benefit and value offered exclusively to Road Scholar participants. You will receive information about this optional travel insurance plan when you enroll in a program. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/protection-plan.

Additional Program Information

Our goal is to make sure our participants have the most enjoyable and rewarding program experience possible. Whether you are considering one of Road Scholar’s many educational adventures or are currently enrolled in a program, we highly recommend you review the additional program information available in the Practical Information section on our website. The section includes a wide range of topics and information -- everything from how to choose the perfect program to traveling solo to insurance. Please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information, or call us if you have specific questions. After you enroll in a program, please be sure to carefully read all pre-program communications and your Program preparatory materials, as they provide important information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there.

Program Policies

Deposit, Transfer and Cancellation Policy

Road Scholar requires deposits for all its programs, and charges fees if you transfer or cancel your enrollment. Deposits and fees vary between programs. Please refer to the Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy on program webpages for specific deposit amounts, and transfer and cancellation fee schedules. Please note that enrollments are on a per person basis and substitutions are not permitted.

About Program Details and Itineraries

We make every effort to operate our programs as advertised. The information on our website is updated regularly, and reflects the most up to date information. We are committed to providing participants with final program details no later than three weeks before the start of land programs within the United States, four weeks for programs International and Afloat programs. and one week for online programs. However, itineraries or other aspects of a program may change due to situations beyond the control. If this happens we will do our best to notify you of the change prior to arriving on your program. We ask you to pack a little extra patience and flexibility, just in case there are last-minute changes to your program.

If Road Scholar Cancels or Interrupts a Program

Road Scholar reserves the right to cancel programs prior to departure, terminate a program early, and to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action. Additionally, due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances, Road Scholar must occasionally cancel or change the dates of a program. When that occurs we will notify you as far in advance as possible and will assist you in transferring your enrollment to another program or refunding your full Road Scholar program payment. If you have made transportation arrangements, such as an airline ticket purchase, Road Scholar will give you a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar to help cover the cost of transferring your travel arrangements for use on a replacement program. The maximum value of the credit will be $300 and documentation of your paid fees is required before issuance of the credit.

Accuracy of Information

While every effort is made to provide accurate information on our website and in our catalogs, Road Scholar is not responsible for typographical errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may relate to program descriptions, pricing, and availability. Road Scholar reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may appear in our publications, and to change or update information at any time without prior notice. If you discover an error on our website or catalog, please let us know.

Program Pricing

As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities at a remarkable value. We do everything in our power to ensure that the published program price is the price you pay. On occasion, costs we can’t anticipate and that are beyond our control arise and may be passed along to you. If this occurs, we will let you know as soon as possible.

Terms and Conditions

Program Selection
We want every participant to have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding program experience. The travel and activities of Road Scholar programs require participants to be in good general health and capable of performing all program activities as described by the program description and its corresponding Activity Level. As a group travel experience, participants must be capable of caring for themselves during the program and agree not to impede the progress of the program or interfere with the enjoyment of other participants. Participants are required to disclose known medical and physical conditions that may interfere with their safety and well being or the safety and well being of others during this program. Road Scholar may limit or terminate the participation in the program at the participant’s expense and without refund any participants who fail to disclose all medical information or do not honestly assess their physical capabilities in advance. With this information in mind, carefully consider the travel and program demands as described on the Road Scholar website, and consult with your physician about your travel plans. If after enrolling you have second thoughts about the program you chose, please call us and we will be happy to assist you in finding a program better suited to your abilities.

Responsibility

Road Scholar’s responsibility is limited. Road Scholar organizes, promotes, and sells educational programs consisting of certain travel services, including land, air, and water transportation, excursions, and cruise/barge/hotel accommodations that Road Scholar purchases or reserves from various suppliers (collectively, “Suppliers”). Road Scholar neither owns nor operates any of these Suppliers; they are independent contractors and are not Road Scholar’s agents. Therefore, Road Scholar is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any Supplier or any other third party. You agree that you will look to such Suppliers, and not to Road Scholar or its agents, for any accident, injury, property damage, or personal loss you may suffer. Without limitation, Road Scholar is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to person or property, death, delay, or inconvenience in connection with the provision of, or failure to provide, any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from — but not limited to — acts of God or force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or the failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time, or for any other cause beyond the direct control of Road Scholar.

Safety & Risks

Certain risks — from natural disasters to accidents, outbreaks of illness, crime, insect-borne and other infectious diseases, environmental risks to health, terrorism and other unforeseen events — are inherent in travel. While such occurrences are beyond our control, we make substantial efforts to be prepared for such possibilities. Participants are encouraged to review the safety and travel information provided by the U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to learn about current security issues, travel advisories and warnings, recent embassy notices, country-specific health information, health risks you may encounter while traveling, precautions for the prevention of illness, disease and general health issues during your program and other helpful destination-specific information. By enrolling in a program, you agree to assume responsibility for your own health, safety, and welfare, and acknowledge that Road Scholar cannot guarantee your safety or health at any time.

Admission & Participation Policy

The granting or denial of admission to a program is within the sole discretion of Road Scholar. Road Scholar reserves the right to revoke admission or terminate or limit participation at any time if Road Scholar reasonably determines a participant’s condition, behavior or actions are inappropriate or disruptive, or adversely affect the participant’s health or safety, or the health, safety or enjoyment of other participants. Road Scholar reserves the right to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s sole opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action.

Photography and Video

Road Scholar reserves the right to take photographs, videos or audio/visual recordings during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them, whether taken by a representative of Road Scholar or by other participants, for promotional purposes. By enrolling in a Road Scholar program, participants agree to allow their images or recordings to be used for such purposes. Participants who prefer that their images or recordings not be used are asked to identify themselves to program staff and the photographer at the commencement of their program. For Road Scholar online programs, all audio or video recordings, content and materials are the property of Road Scholar. Participants are prohibited from taking screen captures, or making, copying or distributing all or part of any audio or video recordings of online programs.

Online Program Terms

If you enroll in one of Road Scholar’s online programs, you are responsible for the integrity of the device on which you will attend this online program, as well as your own high-speed internet connection. Road Scholar is not responsible for outages or interruptions in internet service. Road Scholar cannot and will not provide recordings, content or materials, or provide reimbursement of any kind, for missed portion(s) of your online program, regardless of the reason.

Seller of Travel Information

Road Scholar’s state of Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602244658. CST #2068427-40. Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35594.

Modifications to Terms and Conditions

Road Scholar reserves the right at any time to update, change, modify, or revise these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will become effective upon posting the changes, modifications or revisions to the Terms and Conditions. Accordingly, participants should review Road Scholar’s Terms and Conditions regularly prior to travel in order to ensure they are aware of any changes.

© 2023 Elderhostel. All rights reserved. The Road Scholar service marks, logos, website address and other marks are owned by Elderhostel, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring adults to learn, discover and travel.

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6 days

5 nights

14 meals

5B 5L 4D

Check In, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner

Moose, WY

Tetons Hike, Craig Thomas Discovery Center, Murie lecture

Moose, WY

Rockefeller Preserve Hike, Snake River Scenic Float Trip

Moose, WY

Rendezvous Mountain Aerial Tram, Alpine Hike, Teton Village

Moose, WY

Jenny Lake Hike & Ferry, Campfire

Moose, WY

National Museum of Wildlife Art, Program Concludes

Jackson, WY

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At a Glance

Hike and float amidst the expansive landscapes and dramatic peaks of Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park. As you explore the Tetons on picturesque trails and over glittering water, discover their remarkable wildlife and unique landscapes firsthand. Stay at the venerable and rustic Murie Ranch within the national park, the former heart and soul of the early conservation movement, to truly connect with your surroundings and appreciate the quiet beauty of nature. Enjoy behind-the-scenes access to museums and the historic Ranch as you experience these landscapes as the Muries once had.

Activity Level

Outdoor: Spirited

Hiking three to seven miles daily on varied terrain, with some options based on group interest and ability. Elevations just over 6,200 feet.

Small Group

Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

Hike iconic trails in Grand Teton National Park as you learn about the unique geology, plants, wildlife and human history of Jackson Hole.
Take a scenic float down Snake River with an expert to experience the natural history of the Tetons up close.
Stay at the historic and rustic Murie Ranch in the heart of Grand Teton National Park, where the stories of early conservationists Olaus and Mardy Murie will come to life.

General Notes

This program is part of our “Off the Map” series, exploring truly remote areas of the United States as a way to connect with local culture and landscapes, and disconnect with the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives. Our goal is to bring you to places that have limited access to Wi-Fi, cell service and other technology so you can enjoy authentic learning experiences without modern distractions. Due to accommodations limitations, single rooms are limited and roommate matching is unavailable for solo travelers.

Featured Expert

All Experts

Group Leader

Your Group Leader will be a Teton Science Schools Instructor who has diverse experience working with the flora and fauna of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The group leader is yet to be assigned; the assignment will be announced during Orientation on Day 1 of your program.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Group Leader View biography

Suggested Reading List (7 books)

Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop

You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

Search for a Title

The Creation of the Teton Landscape: The Geologic Story of Grand Teton National Park

by Love, Reed and Pierce

This book outlines the earliest history of the area and delves deep into the extensive geology of the region. *Available for purchase on Amazon.com, USED COPIES ONLY*

Two in the Far North

by Margaret E. Murie

Two in the Far North chronicles the love story and adventures of Olaus and Mardy Murie, from Mardy's childhood in Washington and Alaska to the 500 mile research trip they took via dogsled for their honeymoon and the adventures that followed. This American classic is a must read for anyone staying at the Murie Ranch.

Peaks, Politics & Passion

by Robert W. Righter

Environmental historian Robert Righter tells the story of the preservation of the Teton Mountains and the surrounding areas. In this book, Righter adds to his previous works that chronicled the creation of Grand Teton National Park, bringing us up to date with the regions challenges in the decades since, including private land inholdings, fire and wildlife management, and preservation of local history.

A Short Biography of Margaret and Olaus Murie

by Christen Girard

Written by Teton Science Schools lead faculty Christen Girard, who lives at the historic Murie Ranch and stewrads their story, this short biography tells the tale of Olaus and Mardy Murie, who dedicated their lives to each other and to the conservation of wildlife and wilderness. Their story is inspirational and relevant for anyone who cares about public lands, and especially for participants whose programs visit or stay at the Murie Ranch.

Letters from Yellowstone

by Diane Smith

At the end of the 19th century, an intrepid young woman joins a scientific research team in Yellowstone National Park, to the surprise of the other members of the expedition. This historical fiction brings Yellowstone and the surrounding region at the turn of the 19th century to life.

Common Wildflowers of Grand Teton National Park

by Charles Craighead

This small pocket guidebook includes more than 100 of the most common wildflowers in Grand Teton National Park. Photographs are by award-winning photographer Henry H. Holdsworth, and descriptions are by naturalist Charles Craighead. Small enough to carry on a hike and focused only on the areas we will be hiking, this book is a great option for participants who want to look up wildflowers while they hike!

Wapiti Wilderness

by Olaus and Margaret Murie

Margaret and Olaus Murie made their home in the Tetons for over thirty-seven years. During this time, Olaus Murie conducted studies of the American elk, the wapiti, and both he and Mardy worked tirelessly for conservation efforts and the preservation of wilderness. Wapiti Wilderness tells the story of their adventurous life raising children while conducting research in the Tetons. This book is available at the Teton Science Schools gift shop.

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6 days

5 nights

14 meals

5 B 5 L 4 D

DAY

Check In, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner

Moose, WY

The Murie Ranch

Activity note: Lodge check-in from 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Upon arrival at the Murie Ranch of Teton Science Schools, please come to the main office to register with the program staff, get your cabin assignment, and receive your welcome packet containing your name-tag, up-to-date schedule that reflects any last-minute changes, and other important information. If your arrival is delayed, please ask for your packet when you check in. Snacks, coffee, tea will be available in the main office.

Dinner: At The Murie Ranch Homestead Cabin, enjoy a buffet and family style meal featuring a variety of healthy and balanced options, plus coffee, tea (hot/iced), lemonade, water.

Evening: Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone with a warm welcome and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule and any changes, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer any questions you may have. All transportation is via Teton Science Schools' vans. All activities will be led by a combination of Teton Science Schools staff, Murie Ranch Staff, local experts, and experienced docents. All hikes will be on official trails in Grand Teton National park or the surrounding national forest land over uneven terrain with an elevation change of 500 to 1500 feet. Free time is reserved for your personal independent exploration. Please be aware that program activities, schedules, and personnel may need to change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

DAY

Tetons Hike, Craig Thomas Discovery Center, Murie lecture

Moose, WY

B,L,D

The Murie Ranch

Activity note: Hike up to 6 miles over uneven terrain with elevation gains up to 1200 ft. Drive time 30 minutes.

Breakfast: At The Murie Ranch Homestead Cabin, enjoy a hot breakfast buffet with granola, oatmeal, fresh fruit, and more, plus water, coffee, juice, and tea.

Morning: This morning we will embark on our first hike, at the base of the Teton Mountains. We will travel through a series of habitats, exploring the wildlife and geology present while enjoying magnificent views of this iconic mountain range.

Lunch: Enjoy a packed field lunch in a scenic location during our hike. Remember to bring plenty of water!

Afternoon: After we finish our hike, we'll ride to the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Grand Teton National Park, where displays provide a self-led introduction to the cultural and natural history of the park. Choose to walk 1/2 mile or ride in a van back to The Murie Ranch from the visitor center.

Dinner: At The Murie Ranch Homestead Cabin.

Evening: Murie Ranch staff will share the story of Wilderness and the Murie Legacy. Olaus and Mardy Murie left a legacy of conservation and preserving wilderness. Their work was integral to the passing of the Wilderness Act in 1964 and the creation of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in 1960. Mardy continued pioneering conservation work until her passing in 2003 at the age of 101.

DAY

Rockefeller Preserve Hike, Snake River Scenic Float Trip

Moose, WY

B,L,D

The Murie Ranch

Activity note: Hike up to 6 miles with an elevation gain of 450 ft. Drive time 30 minutes.

Breakfast: At The Murie Ranch Homestead Cabin.

Morning: Today, we will explore the trails at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. Opened to the public in 2008, the preserve is the most recent addition to Grand Teton National Park. It sits at the base of Phelps Lake at the southern end of the Teton Range. Laurance S. Rockefeller donated this parcel to the National Park with the requirement that it be preserved as a contemplative place where visitors can develop a connection with the beauty of the lake and the Tetons. During the hike, we will arrive at the stunning, glacially-carved Phelps Lake at the base of Death Canyon.

Lunch: Packed field lunch.

Afternoon: Following a morning hike, we will return to the Laurance S. Rockefeller Visitor Center. This center is the first environmentally sustainable and LEED Platinum Certified structure in a National Park. The displays inside entice the visitor to quiet reflection and contemplation. This could be a great time to bring out your journal!

Dinner: At The Murie Ranch Homestead Cabin.

Evening: Tonight we will take a scenic float trip down the Snake River. A local outfitter will supply and fit personal flotation devices (PFD) before transporting us via mini-bus to the launching point at the northern end of Grand Teton National Park. View the entire Teton mountain range as we float down the river, watching for wildlife along the shores.

DAY

Rendezvous Mountain Aerial Tram, Alpine Hike, Teton Village

Moose, WY

B,L

The Murie Ranch

Activity note: Hike will start at 10,400 feet, and will include elevation changes of 500-1,500 feet over the course of a 2-6 mile hike. Total drive time of one hour.

Breakfast: At The Murie Ranch Homestead Cabin.

Morning: Start the morning with a short lecture on alpine ecology. After the talk, we'll head to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort to ride the aerial tram to 10,450 feet. On a clear day, the summit of Rendezvous Mountain provides participants with a fantastic view of the Jackson Hole valley. Glacial processes, historical meanderings of the mighty Snake River and human settlement patterns are all seen from a bird’s eye view. Once we’ve reached the summit, our Group Leaders will offer choices for hikes that explore of the alpine environment and the unique flora and fauna found there. Our groups can choose a hike ranging from as little as 1/2 mile to as much as 5.5 miles. For those who may choose not to hike, the views from the top of the tram are worth it all the same!

Lunch: Packed field lunch.

Afternoon: We’ll continue hiking one of the trails at the summit of Rendezvous Mountain, and return to the valley floor via the Aerial Tram or Bridger Gondola. Once there, we will enjoy some free time to explore the charming mountain village before returning to the ranch.

Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost, as you enjoy dinner with a view in Grand Teton National Park. A TSS shuttle will take you to Dornan's, where you may choose between the Pizza Pasta Company or the Chuckwagon.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Jenny Lake Hike & Ferry, Campfire

Moose, WY

B,L,D

The Murie Ranch

Activity note: Hike up to 7 miles at Jenny Lake and Cascade Canyon with elevation gains of up to 1000 ft. Total drive time of one hour.

Breakfast: At The Murie Ranch Homestead Cabin.

Morning: Our final hike will be at Jenny Lake and Cascade Canyon. Jenny Lake is one of the most famous and beautiful alpine lakes in the country. We'll take a ferry across the lake to start our trek. From there, the climb to Inspiration Point on the west side of the lake affords an unparalleled view of the Grand Teton, Jenny Lake, and the Jackson Hole valley. Motivated hikers can continue hiking into Cascade Canyon, entering into the heart of the Tetons, with breath-taking views of the Grand Teton throughout.

Lunch: Packed field lunch.

Afternoon: On our return, take a ferry ride across Jenny Lake back to the parking lot. Enjoy the views as you relax on the boat.

Dinner: At the Murie Ranch Homestead Cabin.

Evening: Relive a simpler time with an evening around a campfire at the ranch. Enjoy hearing local stories and share your own as you reminisce about the week with friends new and old.

DAY

National Museum of Wildlife Art, Program Concludes

Jackson, WY

B,L

Activity note: To complete our program, we’ll head to the National Museum of Wildlife Art to explore the museum with an experienced docent. Resting upon a cliff above the National Elk Refuge, the NMWA serves to inspire the relationship between humans and nature. The museum contains over 5,000 works of art, with exhibitions that focus on wildlife of the world. Following lunch at the museum, you may continue on your own adventure, get a ride into town from a Group Leader or secure a taxi to the airport.

Breakfast: At The Murie Ranch Homestead Cabin.

Morning: After checking out of the Ranch, load your luggage in a Teton Science Schools van and head to the National Museum of Wildlife Art (NWMA) to explore the museum with an experienced docent. Constructed to fit seamlessly into the landscape, the building was inspired by the ruins of Slains Castle in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The museum contains approximately 5,000 works of art. Reflect upon the connection between humans, art, nature, and our natural parks as you explore this world-class museum. At the end of our field trip, there will be free time to explore the museum on your own.

Lunch: At the Palate restaurant at the National Museum of Wildlife Art, choose from a seasonal menu selected by the executive chef.

Afternoon: This concludes our program. We hope you enjoy all your Road Scholar learning adventures and we look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. We encourage you to join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!