June Rockies Exploration

June 13 - 19, 2025
Application open until full

Rockies Explorations are based in Canmore, Alberta, traditionally known as Châ Ûpchîchîyen Kudebi by the Îyârhe Nakoda. Throughout the program we will travel through the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta, the traditional territories of the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations, Niitsitapi Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina and the Métis Nation of Alberta (Rocky View Métis District).

When we learn about a place, we learn about ourselves.

With an approach rooted in Etuaptmunk (Two-Eyed Seeing), the Howl Experience is pleased to provide a 7-day Exploration program for Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth, ages 17-35 from across Turtle Island. This opportunity will use both Indigenous and western Knowledge Systems to deepen youth’s understanding and participation in topics such as personal resiliency, reconciliation, climate action and community leadership.

Youth are invited to engage in community, and help support various volunteer community projects in the Bow Valley connected to National Indigenous Peoples Day. Through a relationship-based and a primarily land-based learning approach, participants will learn first hand from Stoney Nakoda community Elders, Knowledge Keepers, community leaders, scientists and artists on their perspectives of sustainability and resilience from the front lines of reconciliation, climate change, and community identity restoration, preservation and protection. 

Program includes:

  • Volunteering with the Town of Canmore’s National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration

  • Exploring the beautiful landscapes of the Canadian Rockies while discussing climate and personal resiliency

  • Hiking with Stoney Nakoda Knowledge Holder Travis Rider

  • Visiting the Cave and Basin and learn about the Indigenous history of Banff National Park

  • Volunteering with the Stoney Nakoda Food Bank

  • Time spent on the land, visiting with each other and having a nice time!

Please note that the itinerary of this program is not set in stone; it will continue to evolve based on contributions from local community members, the shifting seasons, and the input of participants. That’s the beauty of community-based learning!

Program highlights.

This program will explore the themes of truth and reconciliation, personal resiliency, climate action, and community building. Participants will have the option of completing Howl’s Land-based Community Leadership for ReconciliAction microcredential as part of this program.

Program Cost:
$500-$1500

Valued at over $2,500 per participant, Howl programs are priced on a sliding scale for participants between the ages of 17 and 35, based on self-declared financial need and access to resources. Organizations, businesses and communities are also invited to sponsor participants at a set fee.

  • $500-$1,500 | Applicants will be guided through a sliding scale fee selection process to determine a tuition fee within the above range that feels right and equitable to them.

  • $1,000 | Charities, non-profits and community groups

  • $1,500 | Employers, schools and individuals receiving financial support

Thanks to the support of Banff Canmore Foundation and the Rotary Club of Canmore, we are able to subsidize the program fee for 3 Bow Valley youth to attend. We encourage local youth and organizations with youth employees to apply!

Once you've applied, we will follow up with more information on our fee structure as well as a few questions about your financial situation and the support you may need. Even if cost is a barrier, we strongly encourage you to apply!

Price includes accommodation, meals, ground transportation and all activities while on program.

This program offers guidance, education, coaching and support 24 hours/day for the duration of the program. Participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements to Calgary. Upon acceptance into the program, a $250 deposit is required to secure your spot.

“Through connecting with Elders, experts and peers on the land, I was reminded of my values and learned about practical ways to advance my career and make an impact in my local and global communities. The program helped me identify and deepen my knowledge and skills to understand my place in the movements, and brought me hope for the future.”

Rockies Exploration participant (2024)

Program details.

A group shuttle will be provided at the Calgary Airport to and from the program. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to meet this shuttle, or to and from the program accommodation.

Participants will be staying at Camp Chief Hector.