BACKPACKING/CAMPING
Whether you're brand new to sleeping under the stars or preparing for your first multi-day trek, our backpacking and camping courses are designed to build real skills, lasting confidence, and a deep connection to the outdoors.
​
Through hands-on training, guided trips, and expert instruction, you’ll learn how to plan routes, pack efficiently, set up camp, stay safe, and travel responsibly. These aren’t just skills for a weekend in the woods—they’re tools for a lifetime of adventure.
​
Join us and discover what it means to move through wild places with purpose, preparation, and respect.
Backpacking: Beginning
Learn the tools. Practice the skills. Step into the wild with purpose
Course Descriptin
This course offers an introduction to the fundamentals of backpacking, catering to individuals with little to no experience in the wilderness. Students will learn essential skills such as trip planning, gear selection, navigation, and basic survival techniques. Through hands-on experience and classroom instruction, participants will gain confidence in setting up camp, cooking in the outdoors, and understanding the principles of Leave-No-Trace ethics. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to embark on their own backpacking adventures safely and responsibly.
Topics Covered
Route creation, Leave No Trace (LNT) practices, shelter building and camp setup, wilderness first aid, gear selection and packing, map/topo reading.
Distance Traveled
5–7 miles total
Course Duration
One Zoom meeting, one day of in-person gear overview and packing, followed by a one-night, two-day backpacking trip.
Student Learning Outcomes
1. Demonstrate proficiency in selecting appropriate backpacking gear and packing efficiently for a wilderness excursion.
​
2. Plan and prepare for a backpacking trip, including route selection, obtaining necessary permits, and implementing safety measures.
​
3. Set up and break down a campsite following Leave-No-Trace principles and wilderness etiquette.
​
4. Evaluate and mitigate risks associated with backpacking activities, demonstrating an understanding of wilderness safety protocols.
Requirements/Pre-Recs
None
COST
CA Residents = $38.75*
​
Non-CA Residents = $383.75*
​
*May include additional course fees
Backpacking: Intermediate
Gain the skills to plan, pack, and thrive on multi-day wilderness journeys
Course Descriptin
This course offers an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of backpacking, expanding outdoor skills over the course of 5 days with a multi night trip. Through immersive experiences and expert guidance, participants refine gear selection, enhance navigation prowess, and prepare for multi-day expeditions. From planning efficient routes to practicing Leave No Trace principles, students gain confidence and competence needed to explore the backcountry with safety and efficiency. By the end of the course, students will have mastered the art of multi-day backpacking journeys, equipped with the skills to embark on adventures with confidence and responsibility.
Topics Covered
Route creation, Leave No Trace (LNT) practices, shelter building and camp setup, wilderness first aid, gear selection and packing, map/topo reading, snow movement (in spring quarter only), limited water resources (summer quarter), cold weather camping (fall quarter)
Distance Traveled
20-30 miles total
Course Duration
One Zoom meeting, one day of in-person gear overview and packing, followed by a two-night, three-day backpacking trip.
Student Learning Outcomes
1. Demonstrate proficiency in gear selection and packing for multi-day backpacking trips.
​
2. Practice Leave No Trace principles effectively to minimize environmental impact during outdoor excursions.
​
3. Describe personal growth and learning experiences gained through wilderness exploration.
Requirements/Pre-Recs
-
Completion of WLD104 - Outdoor Leadership and Living Skills OR WLD131BV - Backpacking: Beginning
​
-
Ability to hike 6–10 miles per day while carrying a 25–30 lb pack.​​
COST
CA Residents = $46.50*
​
Non-CA Residents = $460.50*
*May include additional course fees
Backpacking: Advanced
Build confidence with every step—map, compass, and terrain awareness included
Course Descriptin
This course offers a transformative experience for seasoned adventurers seeking the ultimate wilderness challenge. Over the course of 10 days, participants embark on an expedition that pushes the boundaries of exploration and self-discovery. Guided by experienced instructors, students master advanced navigation techniques, refine expedition leadership skills, and confront the unexpected with confidence. From rugged terrains to remote landscapes, every step of this journey tests endurance, resourcefulness, and passion for adventure. By the end of the 102 hour course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to embark on their own backpacking adventures safely and responsibly.
Topics Covered
Review of topics from the Beginning & Intermediate courses, with the addition of how to prepare and plan food drops on a multi-day thru hike.
Distance Traveled
65-75 miles total
COST
CA Residents = $139.50
​
Non-CA Residents = $1,381.50
​
Additional Course Fees:
CA & Non-CA Residents: $102.00
Course Duration
One Zoom meeting, one day of in-person gear overview and packing, followed by a seven-night, eight-day backpacking trip.
Student Learning Outcomes
1. Demonstrate proficiency in advanced backpacking skills, including off-trail navigation and wilderness survival techniques.
​
2. Exhibit leadership qualities by effectively leading and supporting a group during a challenging wilderness expedition.
​
3. Apply critical thinking skills to assess and respond to emergency situations in remote environments.
​
4. Analyze gear performance and make informed decisions regarding gear selection and optimization for expedition conditions.
​
5. Synthesize personal experiences and lessons learned into a comprehensive reflection on wilderness exploration and outdoor leadership.
Requirements/Pre-Recs
-
Completion of WLD105A-Summer Field Experience with a "C" or better
​
-
Ability to hike 10–15 miles per day with a 30–40 lb pack over variable terrain.
Camping: Beginning
Learn the ethics behind low-impact adventure
Course Descriptin
This course is of camping fundamentals designed for individuals with little to no experience in the wilderness. In this immersive course, participants will acquire essential skills such as campsite selection, tent setup, cooking on camping stoves, and basic safety practices. Through a combination of hands-on experience and classroom instruction, students will develop confidence in navigating front country camping environments while understanding the principles of Leave-No-Trace ethics. By the conclusion of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to plan and enjoy their own camping adventures safely and responsibly.
Topics Covered
Leave No Trace (LNT) practices, campsite set up, gear selection and packing, how to get a permit/use disperse camping
Requirements/Pre-Recs
None
Course Duration
One Zoom meeting, one day of in-person gear overview and packing, followed by a one-night, two-day backpacking trip.
Student Learning Outcomes
1. Demonstrate proficiency in setting up tents, selecting campsites, and using camping stoves for cooking.
​
2. Develop a comprehensive camping trip plan, considering factors such as gear selection, meal preparation, and emergency preparedness.
​
3. Apply Leave No Trace principles and environmental ethics in camping practices, minimizing impact on natural resources and wildlife.
COST
CA Residents = $38.75*
​
Non-CA Residents = $383.75*
​
*May include additional course fees
