Montana Rockies Field Camp

Introduction

The Montana Rockies Field Camp examines rocks that span almost all of geologic time across the scenic Montana Rockies. From Archean basement to Cenozoic volcanic features, students complete geological mapping exercises in some of the most structurally complex and visually spectacular terrain in North America.

A highlight of the program is a one-week road trip to Yellowstone National Park, Craters of the Moon, and the Grand Tetons — providing context for regional volcanic and tectonic history.

Program Structure

• Geological mapping exercises across Archean, Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic rock sequences
• Regional structural and stratigraphic synthesis
• One-week field trip to Yellowstone National Park, Craters of the Moon, and the Grand Tetons
• Student presentations, written exam, and detailed field notebooks

Lodging

Students are housed at the University of Montana Western dormitories in Dillon, Montana. Six-day work weeks with Sundays free. Eight-hour field days are expected.

Prerequisites

Physical Geology, Mineralogy, and Petrology. Structural Geology is required. Consent of the Director may substitute for specific prerequisites.

Physical Demands

Rigorous fieldwork in steep terrain at approximately 7,000 feet elevation. Excellent physical fitness is required. Spring temperatures in Montana range from lows of 35–45°F at night to highs of 60–70°F during the day. Weather can change rapidly. See the Physical Preparation guide.

Field Camp Photos

Montana field camp — Glacier country geology