JR. MOUNTAINEERS: backpacking

Description

Participants will develop essential life skills as they plan and lead a 4-day backpacking expedition with their peers. We’ll kick off with an expedition planning day, where participants learn to read maps, chart routes, review gear lists, group equipment like tents and water purification systems, practice using backcountry stoves, and pack appropriate food for a wilderness excursion.

Each day, a new set of designated leaders will guide the group in navigating the trail system, setting time estimates to chosen locations, selecting campsites, cooking and preparing meals, and overseeing daily tasks. Participants also learn and practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment. 

The group will hike a route through the Pioneer Mountain range, setting up camp in remote areas, following trails along meandering creeks and passing through high alpine meadows. Participants should be able to hike 4-6 miles a day with elevation gains of 1600-3500’. They will carry all of their equipment, along with shared group gear like tents, stoves, and cookware. The Trailblazers experience fosters outdoor leadership capacities and functional backcountry skills, encouraging participants to take initiative, problem-solve, and be self-reliant.