Canyoneering and Backpacking for Veterans
Veterans Exploration Therapy (V.E.T.) is proud to partner with the Colorado Outward Bound School (COBS) to facilitate a specialized wilderness expedition through the canyons of Utah.
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Event Overview
Veterans Exploration Therapy (V.E.T.) is proud to partner with the Colorado Outward Bound School (COBS) to facilitate a specialized wilderness expedition through the canyons of Utah. This program is specifically structured to offer a transformative space for veterans to build community, reflect, and discover purpose after service alongside peers who share similar backgrounds.
While the canyoneering and backpacking elements are spectacular, our primary focus is the internal journey—re-discovering purpose, healing, and building lifelong community. Thanks to generous donor funding, tuition is 100% FREE for participants. Open to veterans and their family members aged 16 and older. No prior canyoneering or backpacking experience is necessary!
- Course Dates: September 18–21, 2026
- Location: Moab / San Rafael Swell, Utah
- Total Capacity: Strict limit of 12 crew members (First-come, first-served)
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, August 19, 2026
- Cost: $0 (Tuition is 100% funded. Participants are only responsible for their own travel/transportation to and from Moab, Utah).
Itinerary
Time & Place
What's Provided
Suggestions
- Experience: None required! Full technical instruction will be provided on-site.
- Physical Capability: Participants must be physically capable of carrying a 40 lbs. pack and comfortable with heights, scrambling, and rappelling.
- Travel Logistics: Participants must independently arrange and cover their travel to and from the starting base in Moab, Utah.
Do Not Bring
The Risk
Pro-Tips
FAQs
Find answers to your questions about participating in our events and what to expect.
To register for an event, visit the event page and click the registration link. Fill out the necessary information and submit your registration. You will receive a confirmation email upon successful registration.
We recommend bringing comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, along with essential basics like water, sunscreen, and any personal items you may need.
Before each adventure, we'll email you a detailed trip info sheet that covers any specific gear or additional items needed for your particular activity. All event pages also list their unique requirements. Don't hesitate to reach out worry if you're unsure.
Yes, many of our events are designed to be family-friendly. We encourage veterans to bring their loved ones along to foster community and support. Check the event details for age-specific activities.
Please note that due to the inherent risks associated with certain outdoor activities, age restrictions may apply. Specific requirements vary by activity, and we encourage you to review the details for each event to ensure eligibility. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in prioritizing safety.
Your safety is our top priority. We carefully monitor weather conditions and will modify or reschedule activities if travel conditions are hazardous or if the weather creates unsafe conditions for the planned activity.
Always check your email and our website for updates before events, and feel free to reach out if you have specific weather-related concerns.
Absolutely! We welcome volunteers to help with our events. If you're interested, please fill out the volunteer form on the contact page for more details on how to get involved.