Summer Field Studies 2027
Summer Field Study is a class offered by Roncalli, Cardinal Ritter, and Bishop Chatard High Schools. The program is one part academics, one part adventure, and one part retreat. Students hike, climb, camp, cook, swim, raft, backpack, play and pray in a uniquely challenging program that teaches students to respect themselves, to become leaders, and to work to achieve their dreams. Most importantly, students learn to read from the Book of Creation that God has given us to make known His grandeur, wisdom and love for each of us. Over 3,500 students have participated over the past 45 years.
Destinations:
San Juan Mountains – The San Juan’s are one of the grandest mountain ranges in America. They encompass over 12,000 square miles of mountain terrain, hundreds of peaks over 13,000 feet, the highest concentration of peaks over 14,000, and are home to the headwaters of the mighty Rio Grande. For the mountain enthusiast, miles of historic mining roads offer unparalleled access to alpine terrain while six federally designated wilderness areas ensure pristine experiences. (Credit for the San Juan Mountains description in its entirety goes to San Juan Mountain Guides – https://mtnguide.net/about-us/the-san-juan-mountains)
Base Camp – Chris Park Campground – Chris Park is located near Haviland Lake in southwestern Colorado, 18 miles north of Durango. Summer Field Studies has camped at Chris Park over 20 different times throughout the years.
Ouray, CO – Nestled in the heart of southwest Colorado, Ouray, the Switzerland of America, is the perfect basecamp for adventure, offering unforgettable experiences in every season. Situated at 7,800 feet above sea level, this charming alpine community is surrounded by towering 12,000- to 13,000-foot peaks, dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and scenic mountain valleys that create one of Colorado’s most breathtaking landscapes. Visitors from around the world come to experience everything Ouray has to offer—from soaking in the Ouray Hot Springs and exploring miles of hiking trails to discovering the rich history of the Ute people and the area’s mining heritage, shopping along our unique Main Street, and enjoying our three W’s: wildlife, wildflowers, and waterfalls. (Credit for the Ouray description in its entirety goes to Visit Ouray Colorado – https://www.visitouray.com)
Durango, CO – Durango, CO ia a dynamic mountain community located in the southwestern corner of the state, serving as the cultural and economic hub of the Four Corners region. Situated at an elevation of roughly 6,512 feet, the town occupies a picturesque transition zone where the high desert plateau meets the dramatic, jagged peaks of the San Juan Mountains. The Animas River flows directly through the heart of the city, acting as both a scenic centerpiece and a recreational focal point for residents and visitors alike. (Generated using Google AI)
Mesa Verde National Park – Mesa Verde National Park is America’s premier archaeological wonder. Fourteen centuries of history are displayed there. Established by congress in 1906, Mesa Verde is the first national park set aside to preserve the works of humankind. Mesa Verde is a World Heritage Site, a designation granted by UNESCO to preserve and protect the cultural and national heritage of certain international sites. Credit for the Mesa Verde National Park description in its entirety goes to Colorado – https://www.colorado.com/cities-and-towns/mesa-verde-national-park)
Additional Adventures:
Mountaineering – Students will have the opportunity to climb one of Colorado’s majestic peaks reaching into the sky over 14,000 ft above sea level. This adventure will test even the most fit person’s endurance but the views from the top are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Extra tuition fee of $100.00.
Rock Climbing/Repelling – Students interested in testing their abilities to climb the face of a mountain or repel off cliffs located in the San Juan Mountains. Extra tuition fee of $100.00.
Via Feratta – Known as the “Iron Way” – exhilarating Via Ferratas beckon adventurers of all levels. Ouray’s three Via Ferratas are a testament to human ingenuity, blending the natural beauty of the rugged landscape with engineered pathways and iron rungs. These exhilarating routes offer an unparalleled opportunity to experience the vertical world, allowing climbers to traverse sheer cliffs and towering rock faces while safely secured to steel cables. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a novice adventurer, Ouray’s Via Ferratas provide an unforgettable journey into the heart of this breathtaking alpine playground. (Credit for the Via Ferrata description in tis entirety goes to Visit Ouray Colorado – https://www.visitouray.com/via-ferrata)
Whitewater Rafting Noah’s Ark – Every student will have the opportunity to complete a whitewater rafting trip with Noah’s Ark during our adventure. Noah’s Ark is located just outside Buena Vista, Co and at the north end of the Arkansas River. While on the river the students will not only be exhilarated with the rapids they encounter but also will get to take in the grandeur of Brown’s Canyon. Price included in trip tuition.
Dates – June 13 – 26, 2027
Tuition – $2,000 – The tuition covers all transportation, food costs, backpacks, sleeping pads, camping and park admission fees, rafting fees, laundry, showers and lodging expenses. Students provide their own sleeping bag, daypack, and tent.
2027 Registration Form (Due November 20, 2026)
Payment Schedule –
November 20, 2026 – Preliminary Deposit Due – $500.00 – Check made out to Roncalli High School – Please put student name and SFS on the memo line. (Fully refundable until March 05, 2027)
March 05, 2027 – Confirmation Deposit Due – $500.00 – Check made out to Roncalli High – Please put student name and SFS on the memo line.
May 07, 2027 – Final Balance Due – $1,000.00 – Check made out to Roncalli High – Please put student name and SFS on the memo line.
Important Dates
April 2026 – Family Planning Night – TBD
June 10, 2027 – Gear Drop Off – 6:00-8:00 PM – Front Entrance of the Ascension St. Vincent Gymnasium (Door 15) at Roncalli High School.
June 13, 2027 – Meet at Roncalli at 12:00 PM. Entry through Door 1 to the Cafeteria. Depart Roncalli at 1:00 PM.
June 13, 2026 – June 26, 2027 – Summer Field Study Adventure.
June 27, 2026 – Return to Roncalli High School around 6:00 PM.