Embrace Beauty in Adversity. Draw Strength From God.
Send forth thy light and thy truth: they have led me and brought me into thy holy mountain and into thy dwelling. - Psalm 43:3
All men desire strength, but each man must know the source of his strength: God, Who calls us to His Holy Mountain. Discover your strength, push yourself to the limit, and experience true joy on this epic winter expedition: In Montem. Set in the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains backcountry of Colorado, this intense seven-day winter expedition is designed for men aged 18-25. Men will have the opportunity to connect with God’s creation as they learn winter survival skills — build snow huts, climb ice pitches and engage in daily Mass, meditation, and talks. This demanding experience isn’t for the faint of heart, but for men who want to take the challenge, receive their identity as sons of God, and discover Him as the true source of their strength.
Ready for the experience of a lifetime?
When: Jan. 7-13
Located at: Rocky Mountains Backcountry, Colorado
Cost: $1095
Application Deadline: December 10th, 2025
In Montem Winter Backcountry Adventure
Here is the itinerary for this challenging expedition:
Day 1: Arrival and onboarding
Day 2: Ice climbing/training
Day 3: Ice climbing/expedition
Day 4: Snowshoeing/establish camp
Day 5: Snowshoeing/peak ascent
Day 6: Snowshoeing/reflection day
Day 7: Break down camp, debrief, and departure
"In Montem last year was hard - one of the hardest backcountry trips I've been on- and I expect this year to be no different. The snowshoeing and peak ascent will be epic, and the added ice climbing is a challenge that will push all of our limits. But underneath the external challenges is an internal challenge of facing ourselves as we step away from the craziness of our lives and all their distractions to be with God in the wilderness.
This experience of undergoing a real challenge alongside a strong group of men is irreplaceable in any man's life. Proverbs says, "as iron sharpens iron, so one man another" and this is never so true as in a shared adversity and adventure. Want to do something hard? Something epic? Join up to sharpen and be sharpened." ~Dominic, an In Montem participant
At In Montem, men will:
- Build
- a foundation of faith through daily Traditional Latin Mass (Extraordinary Form)
- Overcome
- intense physical challenges and develop leadership skills while trekking through the Rocky Mountains of Colorado
- Master
- winter travel and survival skills like proper layering, hydration, snowshoeing, and shelter (under the expert guidance of COR Expeditions)
- Strengthen
- understanding of Catholic teaching and practice through Classes and Spiritual Talks
- Explore
- majestic landscapes, be formed through the beauty of creation, and develop physical endurance
- Grow
- in faith and character under the mentorship of Catholic clergy
About Your Expedition Guides
The success of In Montem relies on the expertise and dedication of our carefully selected camp guides. Each guide is chosen for their skills and commitment to fostering physical and spiritual growth in a wilderness setting. Our team includes experienced leaders from COR Expeditions, a Catholic wilderness expedition company, alongside FSSP clergy from Bosco Ministries.
Every guide is trained in winter survival, backcountry navigation, and safety protocols, (including CPR and First Aid). This preparation ensures that participants face the challenges of the Rocky Mountains safely and confidently. Working together, COR guides and clergy empower young men to explore the beauty of God's creation, experience God’s joy, and strengthen their connection to the Church.
Why Choose In Montem?
Guided by Catholic Values
In Montem is more than a backpacking trip. It's a transformative journey where young men rise to the challenge of resilience and virtuous character. This winter expedition in the Rocky Mountains beckons participants to step away from routine comforts and engage the beauty of nature as a path to spiritual depth and personal growth.
Our program is deeply rooted in the teachings of St. John Bosco, who emphasized the need to form strong, virtuous Christian men. Each day centers around Mass, meditation, and spiritual reflection, built upon the truth that the fully Catholic life is the truly joyful life.
- Faith Integrated Activities
The journey of life is filled with trials which men must meet with faith. Mirroring life’s struggles and triumphs, In Montem combines physical challenges (like braving fatigue and the elements) with the spiritual pursuit of strength and joy. This builds both body and soul as men learn to appreciate the beauty and navigate the adversity of their environment.
- Community and Support
Under the guidance of experienced COR Expeditions leaders and clergy, men are immersed in a community that emphasizes teamwork and mutual support. The shared experience of facing challenges together forms bonds that become a source of courage and strength.
- An Unforgettable Test of Strength
In Montem promises an unforgettable experience of beauty, suffering, and growth. The breathtaking wilderness is the catalyst for a deeper encounter with the incomprehensible beauty of God. This adventure cultivates resilience, deepens faith, and draws men to value the eternal worth of a life spent in pursuit of Him.
What Happens During The In Montem Backcountry Adventure?
During this expedition, each day will hold its own challenges determined by weather and terrain. On an average day, backpackers can expect:
Spiritual Growth
Start each morning with Mass, meditation, and spiritual reflection to build a strong foundation for the day. Men will engage in meaningful discussions that connect their physical journey with their spiritual path.
Winter Adventure
Face the challenges of the rugged Rocky Mountains by trekking through fresh powder, building snow huts, and mastering winter survival skills. These activities encourage men to push their physical limits while they discover the profound beauty of creation.
Develop Virtuous Friendship and Leadership Skills
Throughout the journey, participants work together to hone survival skills and build lasting connections. The shared experience of adversity strengthens both community and faith.
Evening Reflections
As the day concludes, we’ll gather around the campfire for evening reflections, stories, and discussions under the starlit sky.
Registration Information
Experience the raging beauty of the wilderness and open your heart to God at the In Montem Backcountry Adventure. If you’re a man aged 18-25, here’s how to sign up for this expedition:
- Complete the Application
Begin by filling out our online application form. This gives us information about your camper and starts the process. Space is limited to 10 participants.
Mark Your Calendar for January 7th-13th, 2026
In Montem, Rocky Mountains Backcountry, Colorado
*All applications must be received by December 7th.- Submit the Registration Fee
Secure your place on the team with a 20% deposit, which must be sent within 72 hours of acceptance. This amount covers all meals and gear (except for your basic clothing and footwear). A packing list and free gear rental form will be provided to all accepted participants. Rental for all necessary gear is included in the cost.
Payment can be made through our secure online portal.
*A full refund (minus processing fees) will be given to participants who cancel more than 60 days before the first day of camp.- Confirmation and Preparation
Once we receive your application and registration fee, you’ll get a confirmation email with packing information, arrival and departure times, and other important details to prepare for the backcountry trip. Participants can be dropped off by car or picked up from the airport by camp staff.
