Backpacking: Begin (Tahoe)

Catalog description

This course starts with foundational principles, learn the art of trip planning, gear selection, and essential navigation techniques. As the course progresses, immerse yourself in hands-on practice, mastering camp setup, outdoor cooking, and wilderness survival skills. Through a blend of classroom instruction and practical application, gain confidence in navigating diverse terrain, understanding environmental ethics, and mitigating potential risks. This 30-hour course includes trip planning basics, gear selection, fundamental navigation skills, camp setup techniques, outdoor cooking methods, wilderness survival techniques, environmental ethics, risk mitigation, safety protocols, and a guided field trip experience. Culminating in an exhilarating field trip, put newfound knowledge to the test, cementing readiness to embark on independent backpacking adventures safely and responsibly. SPRING 2026: NOTE: This class is partially online/EVE and partially in class on campus. Students will be using a computer to assist with the learning process and are expected to attend class 29 hours with the remaining 1 hour completed online/EVE. SUMMER 2026: NOTE: This class is partially online/EVE and partially in class on campus. Students will be using a computer to assist with the learning process and are expected to attend class 29 hours with the remaining 1 hour completed online/EVE. FALL 2026: NOTE: This class is partially online/EVE and partially in class on campus. Students will be using a computer to assist with the learning process and are expected to attend class 29 hours with the remaining 1 hour completed online/EVE.