Where Adventure Meets Education

Dedicated to Changing Lives Since 1975

Transforming Education Through Nature

We offer a non-traditional approach to education that combines outdoor experiences and personalized instruction to develop resilient, curious, and well-rounded students with a lifelong love of learning and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

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Experiences

LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Embark on a journey of personal growth and outdoor education with our unique off-campus excursions and Outdoor Pursuits Program. Explore the beauty of nature while developing valuable skills and creating lifelong memories.

WAKAN: The rite of passage

At the start of each school year, the CTA community begins with a week-long backpacking trip called "Wakan" in the San Juan Mountains. This journey fosters community spirit and builds connections among students and staff.

A stunning view of the Colorado Plateau in southeastern Utah, featuring vibrant red rock formations under a cloudy sky. This image is from the fall trip, "Time in the Desert."

FALL TRIP: Time in the desert

The "Fall Trip," the second backpacking adventure, takes students to the stunning Colorado Plateau in southeastern Utah. This journey deepens their understanding and respect for the area's unique and delicate desert landscape.

Spring Trip: Where personal skills flourish

As winter ends, students participate in the "Spring Trip," an extension of the "Personal Skills" program. Activities include rafting, rock climbing, and fly-fishing in iconic locations like the San Juan River and Joshua Tree National Park.

  • "Colorado Timberline Academy completely transformed my life."

    Colorado Timberline Academy completely transformed my life. The close-knit community, combined with the unique goal-based education, allowed me to discover my passion for environmental science. The outdoor adventures were unforgettable and taught me resilience and leadership in ways a traditional classroom never could. I’m now thriving in college, and I owe it all to my time at CTA.

    Emily S. (Class of 2018)

  • "The experiences I had on our outdoor trips still influence my life today."

    At CTA, I found a place where I could be myself. The small class sizes and one-on-one attention from teachers made a world of difference. I wasn’t just another student—I was part of a family that encouraged me to pursue my interests. The experiences I had on our outdoor trips still influence my life today. I’ll always be grateful for my time at Colorado Timberline Academy.

    Jake M. (Class of 2021)

  • "The focus on outdoor education and the supportive environment helped her gain confidence and independence."

    Choosing Colorado Timberline Academy for Sophia was the best decision we ever made. The personalized attention she received and the unique educational approach allowed her to excel both academically and personally. The focus on outdoor education and the supportive environment helped her gain confidence and independence. CTA was exactly what she needed to thrive.

    Sarah & David L. (Parents of Sophia, Class of 2020)

  • "We were initially concerned about finding the right fit for Andrew, but CTA exceeded all our expectations."

    We were initially concerned about finding the right fit for Andrew, but CTA exceeded all our expectations. The small student-to-faculty ratio and the caring, dedicated staff made such a difference in his academic performance and personal growth. The outdoor programs were the highlight of his experience, teaching him valuable life skills that he carries with him to this day.

    Katherine T. (Guardian of Andrew, Class of 2019)

Stay Connected

UPCOMING EVENTS

Stay up-to-date with important dates, events, and academic schedules at our school.

EDIT: School Calendar
Block 3
Thanksgiving Break
Holiday Break
Block 4
Block 5
Parents Weekend!
Spring Break!
Block 6
Spring Trip
Block 7
A group of hikers standing under a natural arch in the Colorado Plateau during a desert adventure, with red rock formations and a clear blue sky in the background.

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