Wilderness Trekking School (WTS) is for all – whether you want to bag a few 14ers – OR – just want to enjoy the scenery and wanting to make new friends in the CMC. Students are all ages, from 18 to 70+. If you’re new to hiking, WTS gives you the opportunity to learn how to travel safely – and with confidence – in the backcountry. If you’re an experienced hiker, WTS gives you a chance to review, to enhance your skills, and possibly to fill in some gaps. WTS also fulfills one of the requirements for a Denver Group C hiker classification and for taking Backpacking School.
Topics covered include:
• Essential gear, helping you decide what you need to buy and carry
• Off-trail travel techniques
• Map & compass skills: orientation, navigation, and route-finding
• Weather: how to anticipate and handle wind, rain, lightning, and snow
• Nutrition and hydration
• Handling an unexpected night in the backcountry and a backcountry emergency
• Snow travel and avalanche awareness
• Leave No Trace and other conservation practices
• Also: Safety, Wildlife, Teamwork, Knots
The course consists of five Tuesday night lectures, five field days, and some homework (yes, really!). Students are divided into groups of 10-13 people, based on preferred field day, with consideration for hiking level and age. Instructor teams consist of a senior instructor and two assistant instructors. Students have the opportunity to learn techniques of safe backcountry travel and to practice in a supportive environment. Students plan and complete a hike with their field group.
Time Required:
Students must attend all lecture nights and field days to complete the course. Lectures are approximately 1 hour, followed by 90-minute group meetings. Field days vary in duration but are at least 6-8 hours plus transit time and social stops. Most students report 2-3 hours per week in addition to class and field days for reading, homework, gear acquisition, and trip planning. STUDENTS FREQUENTLY UNDERESTIMATE THE ADDITIONAL TIME REQUIRED.
Upcoming WTS Schedules:
Click here for latest schedules