WORKSHOPS > Backpacking for Teens

These 3-day workshops are designed to teach teenagers how to embark on overnight backpacking trips and how to enjoy the wilderness safely. Topics covered include trip planning, preparation, leadership, gear, safety in the backcountry, Leave No Trace principles, easy but tasty foods for backpacking, how to handle bear encounters, how to avoid hypothermia, and more. We'll spend 1 day in the classroom learning about the topics above, followed by a 2-day backpacking trip to the Porcupine Mountains State Park, the Ottawa National Forest, or other local areas. During the backpacking trip we will also provide interpretive information about the natural history and wildlife of the areas we visit. Taught by experienced outdoor leaders certified in Wilderness First Aid or higher!

Participants must provide their own tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, water bottles, and food. We will supply group cook stoves, cooking gear, and water filters. Specific information on gear/food and itineraries will be emailed to registered participants. Some gear may be rented from us for the trip; call for details.

Dates Offered: 7/28-7/30, 8/8-8/10, 8/25-8/27
Limit:10
Minimum Age: 13
Location: Finlandia University Portage Center classroom for day 1, followed by 2 days on the trail (1 overnight)
Time: 9:30 - 4:00 on day 1
Activity Level: Moderate with full packs; trail and off-trail hiking with frequent rest and water breaks
Instructors: Greg Wright, Matt Manders, Lynette Potvin (depending on date of course)
Cost: $200 includes instruction, camping and park fees, transportation, and use of gear listed above (does not include food)