Take your summer vacation to backpack in some of the country’s most remote wilderness in the Absaroka Range. Explore a land of turbulent rivers, windswept passes, and glacier-carved valleys as you develop lifelong leadership skills. If you’re ready to unplug from city living for a while, to work hard and practice leadership in an amazing mountain range, then this is the course for you.
Explore a beautiful and rugged mountain range bordering Yellowstone National Park. Backpack through thick forests and high mountain passes formed by ancient volcanoes. Challenge yourself to climb rugged peaks, pausing to enjoy the sweeping views at the summit. Camp beside clear alpine lakes and practice your fly fishing skills. As you travel, keep your eyes out for a diverse array of wildlife: elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears, and more.
Whether you’re an experienced outdoorsperson or new to backpacking, expect to learn something each day. Start with the basics, like reading a map, pitching a tent, and cooking on a campstove. Later, move on to more advanced topics, like compass use, snow travel, and first aid techniques.
As you build your outdoor skills, you’ll also grow your leadership skills. Practice effective communication and decision-making while working with your team to cross a river. Grow your problem-solving skills while navigating a boulder field or resolving a group conflict. Return with new friends, lasting memories, and confidence to lead in the outdoors and beyond.
Features
-Duration: 30 days
-Route length: approximately 90 miles
-Average group size: 15 students / 3 instructors
-Elevations of 9,000–12,000 feet
-Average age: 19 / minimum age: 16
-Average pack weight: 40–60 pounds
-Opportunity for students to travel in small groups independent of instructors (based on instructor discretion)
-On- and off-trail hiking
-Grizzly bear habitat
-Area borders Yellowstone National Park
-Notable wildlife: deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and grizzly and black bears
