Quick Details
Overnight Backpacking Course
Spend two days backpacking through some of Washington’s most scenic and peaceful places while learning the skills you’ll need to become a proficient backpacker. With the help of our expert instructors, you will learn how to use a map and compass, food prep/storage/cooking in the backcountry, camping techniques, route finding, and hazard evaluation, and gear management. This weekend trip will give you the confidence you need to start venturing deeper into the wilderness and exploring wild places.
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No backpacking experience required. Some hiking experience is helpful.
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- Use of USFS and other planimetric and topographic maps, identify potential areas, trails and facilities for hiking and backpacking.
- Accurately interpret a route designated by the instructor on a topographic map; and evaluate the route in terms of travel difficulty, transit time, hazards, escape routes and suitability for foot travel.
- Equipment needs of both individuals and groups on day, overnight, and extended trips.
Ability to pick a route that meets your experience level and understand the significance of environmental factors of that route. - Working knowledge of land management agencies and permits required for use.
- Ability to construct an accurate profile of terrain from a topographic map, including calculation of distance, direction, and elevation gain or loss.
- An understanding of the fitness requirements need for backpacking and of conditioning methods for this activity.
- Understand responsible backcountry camping techniques and Leave No Trace ethics.
- Food preparation, planning and cooking process of an overnight backpacking trip.
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- Professional instruction
- Passes and permits
- Breakfasts and Dinners while in the field
- Passes and permits
- Group Camping and Cooking Equipment
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- Transportation (carpool option available)
- Lunch
- Personal camping and hiking gear
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You will receive a full packing list upon registration, but feel free to contact Kaf Adventures with any gear specific questions you have. You will be responsible for the following items:
- Backpacking packs
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Clothing
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Consider joining us for a Backpacking: Custom Outing.
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After you’ve completed this introductory course, you’ll be ready to practice your skills on the Backpacking: Beginner course. So sign up today and let’s go backpacking!
“The date I want isn’t listed.” Please visit our Custom Courses page and contact us to book a private or custom course that fits your needs.
“I don’t see any dates.” Several of our courses run infrequently. We invite you to opt for a waitlist on our courses that do not have visible dates on the course calendar. When enough people sign up for that course, we will select a course date and invite you all to register then.