Trailblazers

Students will learn life skills of being able to plan and prepare for a trip and lead a group of peers during a 4-day long backpacking trip. The first day is all about expedition planning. We will learn about how to read maps and plan out a route, review gear lists, group gear (tents, stoves, water purification, etc.), practice using backcountry stoves, and pack food for an extended trip in the backcountry. 

Each day, we will have a set of leaders who are responsible for guiding the group through the day. That involves navigating the trail system, giving time estimates to chosen locations, campsite selection, cooking and preparing meals, and overseeing the daily tasks of a backpacking trip. Participants will learn how to use Leave No Trace principles while being outdoors. 

The loop leads us through the Pioneer Mountains. We camp at remote lakes and walk along creeks. Participants must be able to hike 4-6 miles a day with elevation gains of 1600-3500’. They will carry all of their equipment, along with shared group gear such as tents, stoves, cookware, etc. They will cultivate self-reliance and problem-solving skills by encouraging participants to take initiative, make decisions, and overcome obstacles encountered during their backpacking trip.

By the end of this trip, participants will be able to:

  • Encourage responsible outdoor behavior and promote environmental stewardship

  • Understand how to plan and pack for an extended trip in the outdoors

  • Read a map and use a compass to navigate on/off trail

  • Reference their location on a mapping app (CalTopo)

  • Practice the Leave No Trace (LNT) principles 

  • Find a suitable location for setting up camp using LNT

  • Cook meals with backcountry stoves in remote settings

  • Lead a group of peers through the mountains

  • Inspire a passion for outdoor adventure, ensuring participants have fun, forge connections with nature, and bond with fellow group members.

DATES:

Trip 1: JULY 22-26, 2024 (Backpacking July 23-26)

Trip 2: AUGUST 12-16, 2024 (Backpacking August 13-16)

PREREQUISITES:

  • 12 - 16 years old

  • Can hike 5-7 miles/day with an elevation gain of up to +3,000’ wearing a backpack (30-40lbs)


What is provided:

●      AMGA certified guide

●      Guides will be carrying a first aid kit, navigation equipment, inReach satellite device, repair kit, and survival supplies

●     Maps, compasses, and a free trial for CalTopo mapping app

●     Tents, backpacking stoves, sleeping bags

●     Food for the entire trip


What you need:

See EQUIPMENT LIST

 

Typical Meeting Times and Place:

Day 1 8:30AM-4:30PM for trip planning day
Meet at the SV Guides HQ

Pricing:

 $1,375/PERSON             

*Guide to Guest ratio is 5:1 depending on group goals
**Sales Tax and Forest Service fees not included
***Guide gratuity not included. As part of the service industry, it is customary to tip your guide(s) if you are happy with their service and should reflect a level of excellence in the service. If you choose to tip, 10-20% of the total trip fee is standard, and cash/Venmo is the preferred method.

RENTALS (BACKPACKS, SLEEPING BAGS, SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT, ETC.):

Sturtevants Rental & Cycle Haus (mention you are going out with Sun Valley Guides to receive a discount)
340 N Main St, Ketchum, ID 83340 
(208) 726-4501
Rental Link

Backwoods Mountain Sports
711 N Main St, Ketchum, ID 83340
(208) 726-8818

Elephant’s Perch
280 N East Ave, Ketchum, ID 83340
(208) 726-3497