Summer Teen Programs (6th – 12th Grades)

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s highly competitive Summer Teen Program three-month program takes a unique approach to fostering nature stewardship and inspiring young people to take part in protecting the wild world. Learn more about the different program tracks by age and how to apply below.

Summer 2026 Applications open: February 1 – February 10, 2026, apply at the program links below.
Program runs: May 26, 2026 – August 7, 2026

Want to Apply?
  • We accept new applications into our Summer and Winter seasons each year.
  • Select the program track below to learn more and apply for the program.
  • A $25 non-refundable application fee is required for all Summer/Winter applications.
  • No late applications will be reviewed.
  • Learn more about the application process.

Summer Program Tracks by Age

To start the summer application process, select from the program links below.

Summer Application Process

  1. Pay the $25 online application fee per applicant that is required and non-refundable. This fee is only available to pay when applications are open (normally during February each year).
  2. An automatic confirmation email is sent after online payment of the application fee has been made, that will contain the link to the online Summer Teen Program Application.
  3. If selected in the application process, teens will then move into the interview rounds of the process. Middle school students (Zoo Crew Explorers) will have one interview opportunity, and high school students (Junior Zoo Keepers) will potentially move through 2 interviews. Each round of interviews has eliminations.
  4. Once accepted into the program, you will have a short period of time to register your teen to secure their spot. If payment isn’t made, your teens spot will be offered to a teenager on the waiting list.
More About How to Apply:

Teens interested in participating in any of our teen programs are encouraged to apply.

  • Each teen will go through an application and interview process.
  • All teen programs are tuition based.
  • Summer Programs run mid-May through mid-August.
  • No late applications will be accepted.
  • Applicants that are invited to the next step of the process will participate in one or two interviews depending on the program they are applying for Zoo Crew (Middle School 6th – 8th grades) has one interview, Junior Zoo Keepers or Junior Camp Educator (High School 9th – 12th grades) have one interview with the Teen Program Supervisor and an additional interview with animal keepers.
  • Want a bit more information? – Visit the Teen FAQs
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