TREK Gap Program at YMCA of the Rockies

Apply For Trek

Grow in faith. Find your calling.

TREK is a working Christian Formation gap year program designed for 18 to 21 year olds seeking personal and spiritual growth while working in a seasonal job at Snow Mountain Ranch.

Applications for the Trek 2021 Gap Program are now open!

Apply For Trek

Meet some of our team members.

  • Customer Testimonails

    “My favorite part about trek was when we shared our testimonials at the retreat in December. Although we had only known each other for four months, people were so raw and real in talking about some of the most intimate parts of their life. The first 18 years of my life I was surrounded by people very similar to myself, same home life and interests and life goals, and it was eye opening to see how I was in a room full of people with different upbringings and lifestyles and aspirations yet we had so much in common and yet they were some of the people I connect with the most and felt the closest too. Trek taught me a lot about loving people for how they are unique and the importance of individuality.”

    Emily, TREK Texas
  • Customer Testimonails

    You know as the time comes closer for me to leave Colorado, I can't help but look back on everything that has happened, the things I've learned and all of the amazing people I've met along the way. I won't say it's been easy, heck there were times I wanted to quit and head home. But by staying here I've grown more than I ever thought I would. But now is the time I tell y'all something, I was offered something I never thought I'd get. There is a 99% chance that this will not be the last I am in Colorado. I was asked if I would like to be a small group leader for the same program that I am in now. Helping kids my age who may have gone through or are going through the same crap I went through. I couldn't have asked for anything better.

    Tristan Hale Texas
  • Customer Testimonails

    So Happy! This morning I woke up early on my day off to go work with sled dogs…The whole time we were going, I just couldn’t stop smiling and repeating to myself, ‘I love my life. I am for sure living the dream.’ I’m just so thankful for the opportunities that are being brought into my life. God is surely doing great things for me right now! Sure, I miss my family and friends back at home, but I wouldn’t trade this adventure for the world!

    Olivia Kohnen Missouri

Ready to start the TREK application process?

That’s great! Here’s what you need to know in order to make the most of your TREK experience.

What is TREK?

Trek is an employment based, Christian Formation Gap Year experience.

What do you mean by “employment based”?
As a participant in TREK, you will also be a full-time, paid seasonal employee at Snow Mountain Ranch, YMCA of the Rockies. You will work a 40-hour work in one of Snow Mountain Ranch’s hospitality and mission focused departments.

What is “Christian Formation”?
Christian Formation is the process of being formed into the image of Christ. It is a life-long journey of holistic transformation in Spirit, Mind and Body as one learns to live out the characteristics of Christ in their individuality and community. This is the ultimate goal of TREK; our hope is that when you leave Snow Mountain Ranch, you are closer God and more like Christ than when you arrived.

Why do you use the word “experience”?
TREK is meant to be more than a class or course, it is an experience of a variety of interrelated growth opportunities designed to stretch the participant spiritually, mentally and physically all in the context of community. Some of the things you will encounter during the TREK experience are: discussions around the basics of the Christian faith, exploring what it means to be “Christ-like,” engaging the natural environment of Colorado through outdoor adventure (hiking, climbing, camping, etc.), learning to live with others from around the U.S. and the world, working a full-time job, exploring who you are and where you come from, assessing your strengths, etc.

What distinguishes the YMCA of the Rockies TREK program from other Christian gap programs?
The Cost. Not only is the application fee lower than most, you actually have the opportunity to earn the fees back, and put money away in savings, because during your eight-month program you will be working 40 hours per week at Snow Mountain Ranch in a variety of jobs. As a result of your work you will receive room, board, and an hourly wage plus employee perks—like free skiing/snowboarding at many Colorado resorts. The total cost of the program is $1000 with a $50.00 non-refundable application fee. Upon acceptance into the program, a payment of $400 is due with the remaining $600 due at check-in or through a 4-month payroll deduction plan.
What are the dates for TREK?
The program starts August 16, 2021, and graduation will be February 28, 2022.
What is the curriculum of the TREK program?
As a student of TREK, you will come together 2-3 times per week in group settings that encourage accountably, safe relationships, thoughtful reflection, honest conversation and prayer. Though Trek is not an academic program, there are academic elements; you will be expected to read, study and reflect on the content of provided course materials and scripture. Along with weekly readings there will be occasional reflection papers, book reports and special projects as part of the Trek experience. Retreats and Colorado adventure-based activities will also be part of your eight-month experience.
Where is the TREK program located?
TREK program participants work at Snow Mountain Ranch (SMR), our family retreat and conference center, located at 9,000 feet above sea level on 5,000 acres surrounded by the beautiful Rocky Mountains. SMR is situated between the towns of Winter Park (20 min) and Grand Lake (30 minutes), which is the western entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. The weather is usually sunny, as we’re located on a high, wide plain of rolling hills looking at the Continental Divide. In the winter, it can be cold and windy, so bring warm layers as you’ll walk a bit from building to building.
What is the housing like?
All Gap Program participants, volunteers, and seasonal staff living on-property will receive single rooms in our staff dormitories. There is a private restroom (toilet & sink) in each room, with communal showers on each floor. Furniture and linens are provided, however you are welcome to bring your favorite blanket, pillow, etc. from home. Each floor also has a common area with a TV, games, and space to lounge.

Employees have access to all of our amenities on property, including: indoor pool, gymnasium, indoor & outdoor rock climbing wall, horseback riding, library, craft shop, horseback riding, and over 100km of amazing trails for hiking, snowshoeing, skiing and mountain biking. For downhill ski enthusiasts, we run a daily shuttle to Winter Park Ski Resort once it opens for the season.
What can participants expect to gain?
The development of a spiritual, personal, relational and practical foundations for life and leadership. Participants will also have gainful employment for eight months, lifelong friendships with people from around the world, and mountain recreation.
Where are TREK participants from?
TREK students come from all across the United States.
Do I get paid as a TREK participant?
YES! While there are initial program fees, TREK participants are paid $12.32/hour and room & board options are available.
Can I bring my car with me to TREK?
Personal cars are highly encouraged to bring. It provides a greater sense of independence and most seasonal staff adjusts better to our rural mountain setting when they have their own car.
Are drugs and/or alcohol permitted?
In accordance with our healthy spirit/mind/body mission and federal law, we have a zero tolerance policy for alcohol or drugs on property; in addition, no drug use is tolerated (including marijuana) during your employment with us whether on- or off-duty. If you want to use marijuana, don’t apply for the TREK program.
Who is responsible for TREK leadership?
Steve Peterson is the Chaplain and he can be reached at speterson@ymcarockies.org
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
"Please contact our Volunteer and Internship Manager, Rene Gorbold, at RGorbold@ymcarockies.org or 970-887-2152 ext. 4111

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We invite you to join us in this amazing work—to develop your skills, to realize your leadership potential and to discover a career that is so much more than a job.