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Learn the skills required for multi day backpacking trips.
This is an introductory level course geared toward hikers or climbers who want to learn more about backpacking.
The focus is on tricks and tips to help you be comfortable and move light in the wilderness.
Itinerary:
Day 1:
Day one we will meet up at 900am in Invermere where we will spend the day discussing trip planning, meal planning and prepare our packs for the trip ahead. That evening we will sleep in Invermere.
Day 2:
We will meet up and drive to the trail head then continue to hike to our wilderness destination for the night. Once there we will prepare our camp and enjoy a warm meal. Potential venues include beautiful locations such as Cobalt Lake in Bugaboo Provincial park.
Day 3:
We will pack up our camp. If time and energy allows we may complete a hike or scramble of a nearby peak before descending back to civilization.
Course Outline
Wilderness Hazard Recognition and risk management
Proper fitting and selection of backpacking equipment
What to pack on a backpacking trip
Bear and wildlife safety considerations
Leave no trace techniques and principles
Trip planning
Meal planning
Organizing a pack for a multi-day backpacking trip
Pacing while on the trail
Navigation with map, compass and GPS
Camp site selection
Shelter construction
Emergency gear and preparedness
Selecting proper footwear
Dressing for the mountains
Checking weather and conditions
Environmental hazards: Lightning, animals, rockfall, snow and ice
Transportation
High clearance vehicle is recommended for some trips Most SUVs and trucks are fine. We can also provide transport for up to 4 guests if you'd prefer. This will be discussed prior to the trip.
Accommodation
On day 1 guests are responsible for their own accommodation in Invermere
On day 2 we will utilize a "light mountaineering style camp" at a remote wilderness location.
Meals
Meals are Light weight backpacking style meals. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are provided during the trip.
Please let us know if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions prior to the start of the trip.
Equipment List
Personal Gear
Boots – 3 Season Mountaineering boots. Waterproof and crampon compatible. NSM can provide boots if required. (Included - limited availability so let us know well ahead of time your shoe size!)
Sleeping bag – good to approx. -5 or -10 degrees Celsius. (NSM can rent you this if you need it- Additional fee $10/day.)
Sleeping pad – Therm-a-rest style or closed-cell foam. (NSM can provide this if you need - Included)
Large Backpack – 50-80 litre capacity (NSM can provide this if you need - Included)
Outer layer jacket with hood – Gore-Tex style
Lightweight outer layer waterproof pants – Gore-Tex style
Lightweight thermal layers – top & bottom, Polypro, Icebreaker, etc.
Climbing/hiking pants – nylon, fleece, Schoeller, etc. (1 pair)
Gloves (medium weight) – wool or poly-pro (1 pair)
Waterproof gloves or mitts (gloves work best) (1 pairs)
Warm parka/jacket – down, synthetic, fleece or pile (1)
Sweater or vest – wool, synthetic, fleece or down (1)
Socks – wool or synthetic blend (1-2 pairs)
Toque/warm hat – wool or fleece (1)
Sunglasses – UV block with good eye coverage (1pr)
Ski goggles
Headlamp with new batteries
Personal 1st aid (blister kit, toothbrush, blister kit, toilet paper, etc.)
Misc. personal items (camera, journal, etc.)
Sunscreen – minimum spf45
Water bottles/hydration system – minimum 1 litres
Walking pole(s) – Optional but helpful for the approach/descent
Gaiters (1 pair) – Optional if built-in paint gaiters or boot gaiters
Communal equipment (supplied by NSM):
Lightweight 2 to 4 person tents
Group tent / cooking shelter
cooking stove and fuel
Cooking sets
Personal eating utensils – cup, bowl, spoon
Compass and map
GPS
Emergency shelter
First aid kit
Satellite communication device
VHF radio
Season and availability:
May: Early season conditions. Depending on the year there can be a lot of snow on the ground. Some hikes will be too wet or icy.
June to August: Main season. Most routes will be in condition.
September: Fall conditions. Snow is more likely
Price (Not including 5% GST):
$750.00 per Guest
Minors under 16 are $120 per minor when accompanied by a guardian.
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