Wilderness Leadership & Backcountry Skills

Camp Unalayee, Trinity Alps Wilderness, Northern California
October 4th-11th, Ages 15-17
The Fall 2020 Wilderness Leadership & Backcountry Skills program will be based out of the Camp Unalayee basin. Three nights will be spent at our base-camp and three nights will be spent out on the trail backpacking. The program will focus on teaching backcountry skills including navigation, map and compass, contour theory, cross country route finding, knots & tarps, fire building, camping stove use and maintenance, backcountry cooking, and wilderness first aid. This program is ideal for those interested in learning how to plan and lead their own backpacking trips. 
The program will include:
  • Hands-on practice with the skills listed above
  • Food planning, hike prep, and route planning
  • Problem-solving and team building activities
  • Leadership, timing, and initiative

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 base-camping and backpacking. 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 Scott Mt. Summit. 
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