Step Away From the Noise and Discover Purpose in the Rocky Mountains - Fall 2026

Do you feel like you’re in an “in-between” stage of life? Are you wanting to get away from the noise of life and immerse yourself in a time of rest and spiritual reflection? Looking forward to spending a season in the beautiful Colorado Rockies? Let the Summit Gap Program take you to new heights!  

The Summit Gap Program at Snow Mountain Ranch is a unique 10-week experience designed to help young adults (ages 18-25) find their place, find their purpose, and find their peace.  

The Summit Gap Program has 5 main focuses: Self-Discovery, Service, Spirituality, Support, and Surroundings. In other words, Summit gives you the opportunity to discover who you were made to be, serve the people around you, grow in your spiritual walk, find support in your journey, all while being immersed in the surroundings of a beautiful natural environment. 

While the program will provide you with meaningful seasonal work, its true heart lies in fostering personal and spiritual growth. Through guided reflection, intentional community, and a connection to the quiet wisdom of creation, you will have the space to explore your goals, deepen your faith, and listen to your own inner guidance. This is an opportunity to cultivate a rhythm of rest, form lasting bonds in a safe and supportive group of people your age, and find a renewed sense of direction for your journey ahead. 

The Summit Gap Program is located at YMCA of the Rockies’ Snow Mountain Ranch in Granby, Colorado, a 5000-acre campus at an elevation of 8750 ft, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. We are located about 15 minutes away from local mountain towns and ski resorts, 30 minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park and 90 minutes from the Denver metropolitan area. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Summit GAP Program 

The program dates and fees 

Fall Session: Tuesday August 18, 2026 – Friday October 30, 2026 

There is NO fee to join the Summit Gap Program! 

What does a typical week look like in the Summit Gap Program? 

This is a seasonal position, you will work for 4 days (based on 32 hours/week), paying $15.15 per hour.  

Each week you will participating in a special “Summit Day,” and have 2 days off. 

What are “Summit Days”? 

“Summit Days” are a dedicated day each week to come together with your team and participate in something new together. provides participants with meaningful work experience and guided opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. Through reflection, mentorship, and service, participants will explore their values, stretch beyond comfort zones, and rekindle their connection to community and faith. 

Activities Range From  

• Reflection Hikes 

• Career day 

• Service projects & community service  

• Visits to local ministries or interfaith sites 

• Guided journaling or devotional workshops 

• Meditation or reflection groups 

• Trivia or game nights 

• Movie or music nights 

• Creative art or journaling sessions 

• Community dinners and storytelling circles 

What does work look like? 

YMCA of the Rockies is internationally renowned for its conference centers and hospitality services, and you get to be a part of its mission! You will be provided with a seasonal job in either food service or housekeeping during the program.  

Upon successful completion of the Summit Gap Program, participants may be offered the opportunity to extend their employment for up to 5–6 additional months, either in their current department or in another department based on interest and availability. 

Do I get paid as a participant of Summit Program? 

This position pays $15.15 an hour with a deduction of $170 a week for the Rocky Mountain Living Package which includes: 

• Shared rooms in our staff dormitory with free Wi-Fi, laundry, and utilities. 

• 3 buffet-style meals per day, 7 days a week with meals provided during outings. 

• Access to the YMCA of the Rockies facilities, which include an indoor pool, basketball courts, mini golf, chapel, tennis, and pickle ball courts, hiking trails, outdoor exercise loop, archery, roller rink, library, craft & design center and much more. 

• Free skiing passes to nearby resorts and other activities 

• Free gear rentals for sports and outdoor recreation 

• Employee programming including staff trips and events 

• Discounted stays at YMCA of the Rockies lodges for family and friends 

What are the Requirements of YMCA of the Rockies and Summit Program? 

• Uphold and reflect the YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Faith in all functions. 

• Uphold the YMCA of the Rockies Mission, policies, and programs. 

• Support the Association safety program. promote safe work practices and a safe environment for guests, members, and staff. 

• Promote a cooperative, positive, and flexible atmosphere while working with others in a diverse environment. 

• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism is required. 

• May be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the position. 

• Meet acceptable criminal background check standards. 

The Summit Gap Experience – What You’ll Walk Away With 

By the end of your Summit Gap Program, you will not have completed a 10-week program, you will have experienced a season of transformation. You will leave with a clearer sense of purpose, renewed confidence, and a deeper connection to your faith, your values, and the natural world around you. 

Through firsthand work, intentional reflection, and authentic community, you will discover new strengths, lifelong friendships, and practical skills that prepare you for whatever comes next, whether it is school, career, or continued service.  

Most importantly, you will leave the mountains with a grounded sense of peace, a vision for your next step, and the knowledge that you are capable of more than you imagined. 

Come to the YMCA of the Rockies at Snow Mountain Ranch for a season and leave with direction for a lifetime.