Rocky Mountain: 1-Week Backpacking Trek (July/August)

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On this week-long expedition, you’ll develop the outdoor skills you need to become a true hiker. At the same time, you’ll improve your leadership and teamwork skills on an unforgettable journey that takes you along rivers, over mountain passes, and through scenic alpine meadows.

Your group will support each other as you hike up steep hills and learn to make do with what you have in your backpack. After a long day of action, you’ll sit around the campfire under the stars to catch up with your peers and instructors and learn how to apply the skills you learned in the wilderness at school or at home.

Area & activities

This expedition will take place on the stunning Rocky Mountain range of Treaty 7 Land; the traditional territories of Niitsitapi (the Siksika, Piikani, Kainai), the Îyârhe Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina Nations, as well as the traditional unceded territory of the Ktunaxa Nation and Métis Region 3.

The course begins with getting to know your team members and an introduction to backcountry living. Our instructors will teach you everything you need to know for your adventure, including how to pack an expedition backpack, use an outdoor stove, build shelters, personal hygiene, minimal impact camping, and how to travel over various terrain both on and off-trail. 

By the end of the course, you will make decisions with minimal input from instructors. Your supportive instructors will also help you become more confident and reflect on the skills you have developed.

Learning outcomes

Our expert instructors will guide you through unique challenges that require your group to work together to solve problems, reflect on your journey, and discuss how to apply your skills and what you’ve learned when you return home. The course is designed to have a lasting and measurable impact in three key areas:

Improved resilience – Improve your mental and physical health and learn how to overcome challenges to succeed.

Better leadership and teamwork skills – Learn the skills you need to succeed in school, work and life by becoming more confident, cooperative and a respectful team member.

Stronger connection to nature – Develop a lifelong relationship with nature.