Join us as we journey through Utah's National Parks under the enchanting darkness of a new moon, where vibrant fall colors greet us by day and some of the clearest, star-filled skies illuminate our nights. Our adventure begins at Dinosaur National Monument, where the fossils of creatures that roamed these lands 150 million years ago still remain, frozen in time. From there, we'll travel along the rugged San Rafael Swell and the sweeping 100-mile-long Waterpocket Fold, to discover the whimsical rock formations of Goblin Valley and the striking red cliffs of Capitol Reef National Park. Next, we'll visit Pando, a remarkable 106-acre quaking aspen, considered the largest and most dense organism on Earth. Our final destination is Moab, where we'll lose ourselves in the surreal, otherworldly landscapes of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Become a stronger, more mindful user of public lands as we hike between six and 10 miles a day over moderate terrain. Class: Aug. 27 (6 to 7:50 p.m.). Field Study: Sept. 21 to 27. Fee: $2,275 (includes air/lan transportation, lodging, entrance/activity fees, and some meals). Required tuition is extra. Information: Gib Egge, email: eggegi@cod.edu. Register for PHYS 1803 FS004.
Once the seat of power for the great Khmer Empire, Siem Reap is home to the most ornate temples including Angkor Wat temple, the largest religious monument in the world and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King, Ta Phrom Temple and a boat ride on Tonle Sap. Then fly to Hanoi, Vietnam to explore the city on foot, including a short bike ride, an overnight cruise, a small boat ride on Halong Bay, and a hike Cat Ba Island. This field study will explore the unique nature and history of these incredible countries, while also experiencing the local culture and cuisine. Learn how to plan for and hike in urban and natural environments in this unique climate and become a more confident and mindful hiker. Class: Sept. 11 (7 to 8:50 p.m.). Field Study: Nov. 6 to 15. Fee: $3,930 (includes air/land transportation, lodging, entrance/activity fees, and some meals). Required tuition is extra. Information: Rodney Buck, email: buckro@cod.edu or Gib Egge, email: eggegi@cod.edu. Register for PHYS 1803 FS006.
Trekking opportunities around Costa Rica are seemingly endless. With majestic mountains, exotic wildlife, dense jungles, misty cloud forests, and two stunning coastlines, this is one of Central America's most diverse and rewarding hiking destinations. Join us as we lace up our boots and explore iconic trails through Manuel Antonio National Park, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Arenal Volcano National Park, and beyond. In addition to experiencing incredible scenery and wildlife, hiking offers a range of health benefits including boosting cardiovascular fitness, strengthening muscles, improving balance, and reducing stress levels. Participants should be prepared to hike up to six miles a day over moderate terrain, reaping both the physical and mental rewards of an unforgettable adventure. Class: Dec. 17 (6 to 7:50 p.m.). Field Study: Jan. 17 to 24. Fee: $2,879 (includes air/land transportation, lodging, entrance/activity fees, and some meals). Required tuition is extra. Information: Gib Egge, email: eggegi@cod.edu or Nate Hambel, email: hambeln@cod.edu. Register for PHYS 1203 FS033.
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park, away from the summer crowds, when the park transforms into a quiet, magical landscape, where steaming geysers contrast against the crisp, white snow, and wildlife roams freely. Travel the park roads by snow coach and spend your days snowshoeing among the seemingly endless snowy landscapes of Mammoth Hot Springs, the world-renown Old Faithful and Upper Geyser Basin, the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley, and much more. After full days of winter adventure, return each evening to the comforts of a hot meal, warm bed and shower. This experience is ideal for the beginner to intermediate snowshoer. Class: Jan. 14 (6 to 7:50 p.m.). Field Study: Feb. 8 to 14. Fee: $3,149 (includes air/land transportation, in-park snow coach transportation, equipment, park fees, and lodging). Required tuition is extra. Information: Gib Egge, email: eggegi@cod.edu or Nate Hambel, email: hambeln@cod.edu. Register for PHYS 1814 FS037.
Step into a world where Europe meets Asia and ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes on our immersive hiking adventure through Turkey. From the bustling bazaars and majestic mosques of Istanbul to the timeless ruins of Ephesus, every step echoes with stories of empires past. Trek a section of the stunning Lycian Way, a coastal trail carved into cliffs above the turquoise Mediterranean and explore the surreal rock formations and hidden cave dwellings of Cappadocia. This journey blends culture, nature, and adventure, offering a one-of-a-kind experience through some of Turkey's most iconic and awe-inspiring regions. Lace up your boots, the past is calling! Become a stronger more mindful hiker as we hike five to eight miles a day over hilly terrain. Class: March 18 (6 to 7:50 p.m.). Field Study: April 3 to 12. Fee: $3,761 (includes air/land transportation, lodging, entrance/activity fees, and some meals). Required tuition is extra. Information: Gib Egge, email: eggegi@cod.edu or Rodney Buck, email: buckr@cod.edu. Register for PHYS 1203 FS035.
Lace up your boots and step into some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes Alaska has to offer. In Denali National Park, we'll hike beneath North America's tallest peaks, where sweeping tundra valleys, alpine ridges, and dense boreal forests provide a home for moose, caribou, wolves, bears, and agile Dall sheep. From there, we journey south to Kenai Fjords National Park, where the massive Harding Icefield spills toward the sea in a spectacular meeting of rock, ice, and ocean. Here, we'll trek across glacier-carved terrain, follow rugged coastal trails, and venture onto the water to witness the thunder of calving tidewater glaciers and search for humpback whales, orcas, puffins, and playful sea otters. Along the way, expect to hike five to eight miles a day over moderate terrain, building not only stamina but also a deeper connection with our public lands. Class: June 17 (6 to 7:50 p.m.). Field Study: July 5 to 12. Fee: $3,270 (includes air/ground/water transportation, lodging, and entrance/activity fees and some meals). Required tuition is extra. Information: Gib Egge, email: eggegi@cod.edu. Register for PHYS 1203 FS069.