Ecosystems & Human Impact

Camp Unalayee, Trinity Alps Wilderness, Northern California
October 4th-11th, Ages 12-14
How can we better understand the mountains we love and how humanity is altering their nature? 
This is the driving question we will be addressing during our Fall 2020 Ecosystems & Human Impact program. In pursuit of answering our driving question, students will explore the following questions: 
  • What is a temperate coniferous forest?
  • How do the different living and non-living parts of the ecosystem work together to maintain balance?
  • How are increasing global temperatures and the rise of wildfires affecting these ecosystems? 
  • How will these changes impact all those who live near and love these mountains?
  • What can or should we do in response to our changing environment? 
​Students will explore these questions through a variety of hands-on activities, guided exploration, data analysis, and active discussion. The program will take place in the beautiful basin of Camp Unalayee in the Trinity Alps Wilderness of Northern California, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the ecosystem we are studying. We will spend three nights at our base camp, and three nights out on the trail backpacking. The program will involve a high level of physical activity and be closely tied to the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-ESS3 and MS-LS-2. 

Our Staff

Like with many things in life, it's all about the people. What sets FIELDGUIDES apart is its amazing team of hike leaders. All our staff are well trained in wilderness living and backcountry skills, with knowledge of the local terrain, and have exceptional skills working with youth in the outdoors. Additionally, many staff members hold degrees related to each of our educational enrichment components. Each hike will have a certified lifeguard and all staff are CPR and Wilderness First Aid certified, or higher. Equally important, they are engaging, caring, and fun individuals who take great joy in the work they do. Their enthusiasm sets the tone for all Fieldguides adventures. 

What's provided and what you need

Fieldguides will provide all food and group gear needed for the hikes. We also have personal gear to loan out to participants who need it, including backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, ground cloths, fleece jackets, rain jackets, warm hats, and sun hats. All loaner gear will be cleaned and sanitized before being given to participants. There is no cost to rent gear. Check out our full packing list here. Families are responsible for getting their participant(s) to and from the trailheads. 
To learn about how FIELDGUIDES is approaching the risks of operating guided backpacking trips for youth during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to view our policies, plans, and guidance from organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Camp Association, visit our FIELDGUIDES AND COVID page.
Questions? Contact us: FIELDGUIDES INC. (650)969-6325 info@fieldguides.org