Course Objectives

• To properly train hikers in appropriate wilderness techniques including, but not limited to:
  • Gear and food preparation and packing
  • Navigation, compass and map skills
  • Objective and subjective hazard evaluation skills
  • "Leave No Trace" camping philosophy
  • Safety techniques
  • Proper waste and sanitation techniques
  • Bear and wildlife precautions

• Develop foundational skills necessary to enjoy wilderness camping/trekking and prepare for extended backpacking trips.

Course Itinerary
Day 1: Gear 7:00am orientation and gear check. We begin with a thorough gear check, food check and proper packing techniques. After determining loads, we perform map and compass skills. After loading the van, we drive to the trailhead and set our first camp. Camp techniques include: obtaining back country permits, food preparation and storage, tent site construction and selection.

Days 2-3: Leave the campground and hike into the backcountry. We will spend two full days on the trail and set a different camp each night. We learn proper wilderness camping and survival techniques and apply this knowledge in a direct and immediate way. On the trail's varied terrain we encounter diverse flora and fauna. Weather conditions are taken into consideration as we pair correct technique with decision-making. We place emphasis on safety in the wilderness and proper first-aid kits.

Day 4: Break camp and return to trailhead. The last day of the course provides the opportunity to utilize all the skills we have learned to this point. From the trailhead we depart for Seattle.

A Word on Gear: Please note you will receive an annotated gear list and complete menu planning information sheet upon receipt of your application. The general gear list for the Alpine Ascents mountaineering school includes technical climbing gear not necessary for this course.

Wilderness Menu Planning & Packing Tips

• A regular, high caloric intake will aid against hypothermia, exhaustion and other cold weather ailments.
• Complex carbohydrates provide the best source for long-term energy.
• Refined sugars (candy), or simple carbohydrates provide quick short-term energy.
• Meals should also consist of foods which are light and compact to minimize weight and bulk.
• Two to two and one-half pounds per person/per day is considered a well planned trip menu.

Student Comments
"I had an absolute blast. Great instruction; great place; I received more than I expected." —Michael H.