The Alpine Backpacking Expedition builds on basic backcountry skills and caters curriculum to high mountain travel. Open to students 16 to 18, this 14-day backpacking course teaches the navigation and risk management skills necessary for off-trail, alpine travel. The group will practice condition assessment, and attempt to summit a few stunning peaks* in a wild Northern Rockies mountain range. With a goal of boosting student confidence in alpine terrain, there will be a particular emphasis on route finding with map and compass, as well as sound decision-making/risk management in the high mountains.
While on expedition, students will engage in lessons about Leave No Trace® land stewardship principles, backcountry cooking and campcraft, and navigation and triangulation. Additionally, participants will learn about alpine ecology, local public land history, and the high-level leadership and facilitation skills necessary to travel well and limit risk exposure in the mountains. Each student will have opportunities to lead the group as Expedition Leader of the Day to gain experience with these newly acquired leadership skills.
For more information about MWS core curriculum and expedition progression, check out Expedition Life. If you have additional questions, please check out our FAQ page or reach out to enroll@montanawildernessschool.org
*Note: The Alpine Backpacking expedition does not involve roped travel or roped climbing, but it does include off-trail travel in loose terrain. Interested students should be prepared for a challenging backpacking trip with incredible views.
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