What's so special about this Wilderness Ventures trip?
Since 1977, over 3,000 students have climbed the Grand with us. That’s ten times more students than the combined totals of all similar appearing programs for young adults! We have learned over the years how to better prepare you for success on this climb than anyone else. Furthermore, you’re able to enjoy a variety of activities without driving all over the Northern Rockies. You backpack, rock climb, sea kayak and white water raft all within a sixty mile radius, and we’re the only program for young adults which can do this. This trip has been conducted since 1973.
How challenging is this trip?
The Grand Teton trip is one of the more challenging trips we offer, as well as one of our oldest expeditions. This trip combines a little bit of everything: backpacking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and sea kayaking. It’s perfect for beginners and returning students alike who seek both adventure and challenging opportunities, with very little vehicle travel. Most students enroll in this trip because they want to climb the Grand Teton.
I’ve never rock climbed before. Do I need experience?
No. We will spend two days learning all the necessary techniques we’ll need to climb the Grand Teton, from knots, to belaying, signaling, rappelling, and safety techniques. Then, we’ll embark on a two-day climb up the 13,771 foot peak. Since 1973, more than 4,000 students have climbed the Grand Teton with us and we have never experienced a broken bone—our safety record is impeccable.
Do I need have my own rock climbing gear?
No. All gear for climbing (harnesses, shoes, ropes, belay devices, helmets) is provided by Wilderness Ventures.
What will the backpacking be like?
This trip takes you backpacking in some of the most gorgeous places in Wyoming. We’ll spend time in the Teton Wilderness and the Wind River Range. We’ll hike below towering peaks, along alpine lakes, through wildflower filled meadows, and through forests of aspen and pine. We’ll be hiking 5-8 miles a day, for 5 days at a time. We’ll also teach you how to pack your backpack, so that it rests comfortably on your waist. The sense of accomplishment you’ll experience by carrying your home on your back will fill you with confidence to last you a lifetime.
What will we see while we are kayaking in Yellowstone?
Kayaking in Yellowstone National Park is such a unique experience. Paddling close to the shore will allow you to see moose, elk, swans, eagles, trout, and white pelicans. Each night we’ll recap the day’s events around a fire, toasting marshmallows, laughing about the water fights we had, and planning the next day.
What’s the weather like in the Jackson Hole area?
Jackson Hole is beautiful in the summertime. Daytime temperatures are in the 80’s and nighttime temps fall into the 50’s. The humidity is very low, thus creating the perfect atmosphere for being outside.
How often will we get to shower?
You will have the opportunity to shower every 4-5 days. After we’ve completed an activity, we will take showers, do laundry and prepare for our next adventure!
What kind of food will we eat?
Your fellow trip participants, with the help of your leaders, will create the menu for your trip. Everyone will be involved in this process to ensure a wide variety of food choices that provide a balanced diet to fuel our bodies. We shop in regular grocery stores and teach you how to plan and shop for great food for camping expeditions. The food is delicious, healthy, and there will be plenty of it!
Will I get to call home during the trip?
Yes. Upon your arrival into Jackson Hole you will be asked by your leaders to call home and let your parents know you have arrived safely. You will also have the opportunity to send home as many letters as you want, and your parents will be able to follow your trip through a series of updates that your leaders will write during the summer and post on the web.
What are things I can do before the to physically prepare myself?
Any reasonably fit and active teen grader will be successful on this trip. If you are playing a sport this spring, that will provide you with the preparation you need. At least four weeks before your trip, you should begin to break in your boots. Start out with small walks around your neighborhood and work your way up to three-hour hikes. Your Grand Teton experience will be significantly more enjoyable if you have a basic level of fitness and well-broken in boots.
