Backpacking Expedition

Live your life by a compass not a clock

Course Description

This 8-day course is the ultimate backcountry adventure!  The first morning is spent in town on a low and high rope challenge course where you and your expedition team will meet and explore concepts in problem-solving, decision making, and relationship building.  We then head to our base camp to prepare for our expedition.  Lessons on rationing, bear encounter prevention & response, and packing a backpack will all be a part of our expedition preparation.  We’ll stay the first night at our base camp; testing out our tents and sleeping systems and the next morning we’ll depart for our off-trail adventure!  Throughout the expeditions, students will learn and practice expeditionary skills such as navigation, route finding, river crossings, risk management, teamwork, and leadership skills.

“The backpack trip I went on a couple years ago was so good for my soul and really changed me! I went home from the trip and had to reorganize my room because it was so messy. The outdoors just taught me about having a routine and to stay on top of my stuff.”

Adverse Conditions

Adverse environmental conditions can occur during the program (i.e. cold, wet, or snowy conditions).  A gear list is provided and students must come prepared with the necessary gear.  

Many items may be available for use upon request such as rain gear, fleece layers, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, etc. etc.  All group gear is provided such as tents, cook stoves, food, and more.  

Student Eligibility

Students for this course must be able to hike off-trail 3-5 miles a day over uneven terrain with a 30-40 lb pack.​ They also must have the cognitive ability to follow directions specific to managing risks associated with backcountry travel such as staying together in a group, using a camp stove, setting up tents and tarps, etc., etc.