Adventure Based Leadership (ABL)
Adventure-Based Leadership (ABL) (Ages 13-18) is an immersive outdoor learning and leadership program designed to challenge and inspire students through hands-on experiences in the wilderness. Participants develop essential survival skills, including navigation, search and rescue, and mountaineering, while building leadership, teamwork, and decision-making abilities. No prior experience is required—whether you're a beginner or have outdoor skills, this course will expand your knowledge and confidence in the backcountry. Through adventure-based learning, students gain resilience, critical thinking skills, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
Students Will Learn:
Wilderness navigation with a map and compass
Planning and leading wilderness hikes
Backcountry safety and survival skills
Reacting to and dealing with wilderness emergencies
Wilderness first aid skills
Avalanche terrain avoidance
Rappelling
Rock climbing
And much more
Prepare to discover that you are capable of much more than you ever imagined while you practice decision making, problem solving, and managing group dynamics in a wilderness environment. You will gain confidence and learn skills that will serve you well for a lifetime.
We strive to have at least half of the course on field trips. Field trips are typically from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at various locations within 150 miles of Colorado Springs.
*Please see the Course Schedule page for locations, dates, and times*