2026 AEE International Conference

You’re invited to join the Association for Experiential Education at ‘ASCEND’, the 54th Annual International Experiential Education Conference taking place this November 12-14 at The YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado! That's right, we're heading back to this incredible site where we held our 52nd Annual Conference in 2024. 

With hundreds of educators, students, practitioners and researchers in attendance, you'll have the opportunity to learn from experts and innovators, develop lasting professional and personal connections, enrich your work or studies, and discover what's possible in the industry.

Grow in community and elevate your practice with over 80 workshops, research sessions and panels, keynote events, social and networking sessions and more. 

Nestled within 860+ acres of spectacular vistas & ponderosa pines, the YMCA of the Rockies is ready to once again host the AEE community in 2026. Not only does this site have some awesome lodging options and beautiful facilities, they also offer hiking trails, an on-site challenge course, archery, fire pits..and so much more! 

How is the AEE Conference Different?

'Experiential Educators' includes an extensively broad range of professionals such as teachers, counselors, guides, professors, therapists, researchers and more.

Our conference uniquely brings together this diverse community into one place to learn with and from many different perspectives. Learning through experience isn't siloed, your conference experience shouldn't be either.

Imagine:

• Connecting with innovative thinkers, researchers, and seasoned practitioners from around the globe.
• Engaging in thought-provoking discussions, interactive workshops, and inspiring keynotes that will challenge your perspectives and ignite your creativity.
• Discovering the latest research, innovative methodologies, and best practices in Experiential Education.
• Expanding your professional network and creating lasting relationships with people who share your passion.
• Enriching your practice with actionable insights and practical tools that you can immediately apply in your organizations and communities.
• Emerging the conference feeling refreshed, re-energized, and inspired to make a positive impact on the world.

In The Words of Attendees: Testimonials

“I'm already inspired by the camaraderie from this experience, it is truly unlike any conference I've attended in the past!” -Corey, 2024 Attendee

“I'm in. I loved it. This was fantastic, and I'll be coming back!” - Liz, 2024 Attendee

“This was my first year & I was completely blown away! There was a ton of information & incredible individuals doing amazing work! I feel blessed to be a part of it. I am looking forward to taking this information & professional connections to continue to grow in my skill sets.” - Martin, 2024 Attendee

“I mean, I'm already all in.  The welcoming culture, the friendly people, and the shared community won me over instantly.” - Christy, 2024 Attendee

“I've been in higher education for 16 years. This was the best, most organized and friendliest professional conference I've ever attended. And I've been to many. Thank you, all, for a wonderful experience.” - Todd, 2023 Attendee

“Thanks, Association for Experiential Education,  for an excellent conference!  I met some great people, and the presentations were consistently of high quality with many take aways. I so enjoyed presenting as well!”   - Sue, 2023 Attendee

"I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity from AEE to spread my voice about the environment and how it’s affecting me and my community. Thank you for amplifying not only my voice but my peers. I’m looking forward to future AEE conferences." - Kaja, 2023 Attendee